Shiga Kogen

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan’s largest ski resorts. Although there lift pass is combined, it is actually a consortium of about 20 odd separately owned ski operations. It is also one of the highest ski resorts in Japan, with the base starting about 1,300 meters above sea level. While most of the resorts are linked, Yokoteyama and Kumanoyu are stand alone resorts to the east of the main areas.

We have tried to cover the whole resort in one day, but it is impossible. And we think a 4 – 5 day vacation here is about the perfect length. This way you can explore the whole resort at leisure, but not get cabin fever to badly due to the lack of bars and restaurants.

It is located in the Joshinetsu National Park, and as such has strict land usage policies which have hampered development in some ways. It is home to a number of large hotels, most of which are ski in / ski out, but there is little in the way of self contained accommodation or back packer style accommodation. Location is also very important, and we find that the Ichinose area, as well as the Prince Hotels are probably the best locations to stay.

Access to Shiga Kogen is via a single road up from Yamanouchi township, so getting in and out during major snow events can be an issue, as avalanches sometimes cut off the road.

On most nights you’ll wind up eating in at your hotel, as there are not a lot of restaurants in the area.

So while Shiga Kogen may not be big on après ski, the vastness of the resort, and the quality of the snow make it a great destination.