Shiga Kōgen
志賀高原
One of Japan's largest ski areas, with 18 resorts linked by a single lift pass. In summer and autumn it is a top destination for hiking among lakes and marshes.
Shiga Kōgen lies within Joshin'etsu Kōgen National Park at an elevation of 1,300 to 2,300 metres. In winter, 18 ski resorts are connected by lifts, and one pass covers all of them. The snow season lasts about five months, and the powder is dry and light. The area hosted alpine skiing events for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. In summer and autumn, you can walk the lake trails around Hasuike, Biwaike and Kidoike, or ride a lift to the summit of Yokotesan, home to the "highest bakery in Japan." In autumn foliage season, the Shiga Kusatsu Road takes you all the way to Kusatsu (closed in winter). From Nagano Station, take the Nagano Electric Railway to Yudanaka and transfer to a bus, which takes about 40 minutes. In winter, a direct bus runs from Nagano Station.
Opening hours
Open all day; ski area about mid-December to early May
Nearby sights
- Ōnuma Pond
- Higashidateyama Alpine Botanical Garden
- Mount Yokote
- Jigokudani Monkey Park
- SORA terrace (Ryuoo Ski Park)
- Shibu & Yudanaka Onsen