Shiga Kogen Ski Resort

What to know

Shiga Kogen Ski Area (志賀高原, Shiga Kōgen) is a collection of over a dozen interconnected ski resorts, forming the largest combined ski area in Japan. With nearly 50 lifts, gondolas, and ropeways, a single lift ticket grants access to the entire domain, which is so vast that exploring it all takes at least two days.

Situated in the highlands of Nagano Prefecture, Shiga Kogen is split into two main zones meeting at a central hub near the Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki bus stop. The southern section climbs to the summit of 2305-meter Mount Yokote, featuring ski runs and hot springs along the way.

The northern area leads to Oku Shiga Kogen, flanked by 2000-meter peaks that offer extensive terrain for skiers and snowboarders. Higashidateyama Resort hosted the slalom and giant slalom events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics.

Lift tickets cover all resorts in Shiga Kogen, and most areas are connected so you can ski or snowboard between them. A free shuttle bus also links the resorts throughout the ski season.

Accommodation is plentiful, with many hotels scattered across the area, especially near the central intersection. Shiga Kogen lacks a proper town, so après-ski activities typically happen at your hotel. For more entertainment, nearby hot spring towns like Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen, as well as the Jigokudani Monkey Park—where wild monkeys bathe in natural hot springs—are easily accessible.

Buses run about once an hour from Yudanaka Station to Shiga Kogen, stopping at Shibu Onsen shortly after departure. All buses arrive at the Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki bus stop (30 minutes, 1100 yen) before continuing toward Oku Shiga Kogen or Mount Yokote. Free shuttle buses connect the Yamanoeki stop with the various ski resorts.