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FAQ

Please take a look some of the most frequently asked questions.

What Is the Climate in Shiga Kogen?
🌸 During early spring, it can be quite chilly so please bring an overcoat or something just in case.
☔ By the end of the rainy season in June, Shiga Kogen enters its summer season which compared to the rest of Japan, is cool and refreshing.
🌻 While in the summery daytime, temperatures can be quite high, though the air is not humid like in Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka. However, it’s advisable, due to the altitude, to bring a light overcoat, as it can be a bit chilly in the morning and evenings.
🍂 From the end of August to the end of September, Autumn hits quite early for the mountains over 2,000m bringing with it a flush of red and orange leaves. Plants and trees at 1,500m normally hit their autumn phase mid-October.
⛄ In Shiga Kogen, known for its long winters, the temperature during the day is usually around 0°C. The lowest temperature can even drop to -15°C. Jeans are not highly recommended. Gloves and beanie are essential items!
When Will Reservation for Winter Season Open?

Most hotels in Shiga Kogen typically begin accepting reservations around September to October. If you’re looking for early-bird offers at a specific hotel, I’d recommend contacting the hotel directly as they may have different reservation opening schedules.

How Can I Get To Shiga Kogen By Public Transport?

Public transportation (route/shuttle bus) in Shiga Kogen is operated by Nagaden Bus Company.
Buses do not run frequently, so please be sure to check the timetable in advance and plan your trip accordingly.
No taxi stationed in Shiga Kogen. If you would like to book a taxi, please contact the Nagaden Taxi Sales Office (+81-269-33-3161) in Yudanaka.

About Road Conditions

Road conditions are pretty predictable with the roads being busiest in the holiday seasons. This means that in May holidays, Obon (mid-August) holidays and weekends that fall during the Autumn Season will be quite busy.
There is no gas station in the Shiga Kogen area, please fill up before coming up to Shiga Kogen.
In winter, the roads will be frozen, and while we take all possible precautions and measures, it will be necessary to bring chained tyres or so to stop the vehicle from slipping. Please refer “Winter Driving Rules in Shiga Kogen” for more detail. In some cases, snowfall may still be found in May and October.
(The Shiga-Kusatsu Route will be closed in winter from mid-November to mid-April).

About Parking Spaces

There are several free parking areas within Shiga Kogen. Please be aware that they may get crowded on weekends and public holidays, so we kindly ask you to park with consideration for other vehicles and facilities. You can find the parking map here.
*In regards to accommodation parking, please inquire with each accommodation.

Are There Any Gas Stations in Shiga Kogen?

There are no gas stations in Shiga Kogen area, so please prepare well and plan accordingly.
**Diesel fuel types can differ between city areas and mountain regions in winter. Please confirm the correct diesel type for your vehicle and make sure to refuel before coming to colder areas.**

The information for the closest gas stations:

Where is ATM?

At the Post Office near the Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki bus terminal in Hasuike, an ATM can be found where you can withdraw money via cash and credit cards.
This is the only ATM on the mountain but it is only available on weekdays (9:00-17:30) and Saturday morning (9:00-12:30). Some activities, restaurants and shops accept only cash, so please bring enough cash for the weekends.

When Is the Best Season for Hiking/Trekking?

The best hiking season in Shiga Kogen is June to October. Some trails may still have snow in May, and signage or maintenance may be incomplete, so please check conditions in advance and use caution. Please check the trail map/status/conditions on this page.

Guided hiking programs are available from June to October through the Shiga Kogen Guide Association, offering insights into local nature, history, and wildlife.

About Alpine Flower Blooming

You can check when flowers are supposed to be blooming on the Shiga Kogen Visitor Center Website or “The Blooming Season of Alpine Plants“.

When is the Best Time to See Autumn Leaves?

Autumn comes early in Shiga Kogen due to the altitude, and in late September each year the summits of Mt. Shirane and Mt. Yokote slowly burst out with reds, oranges, and yellows. From there, the lower levels of about 1,500 – 1,600m start their change in October. By November, the colours will have moved further down and the leaves will start dropping. For your refedence, on “Autumn Foliage Information” page, we’ll be updating the autumn foliage conditions daily starting in October.
The first snowfall can be as early as mid-October, so November can be a mix of autumn leaves and white snow.

Is There a Place to Buy Bento (Lunch Boxes) for Hiking?

While there are a few shops in Shiga Kogen where you can buy light snacks, you won’t find the kind of convenience stores or supermarkets you might be expecting.
If you expect to need lunch during your hike, it’s best to arrange this with your accommodation in advance. For day trips or similar outings, we recommend buying any necessary food and supplies before traveling up to Shiga Kogen.

What Should I Do in the Event of an Accident or Theft?

If you should have the misfortune of being victim to a theft, or have an accident, you can contact the police station in Hasuike (+81-269-34-2109) who will advise and help you.
If the police officer is not present, then you should get in contact with the police station in Yudanaka found at the foot of Shiga Kogen.
During winter, there are many vehicular accidents so please be careful when driving!

About Restaurants and Shops

Winter: Each ski area has hotel-based restaurants, some of which are open to non-guests as well. Spring to Autumn: Some restaurants may not be open during this period, so we kindly ask that you contact each facility in advance.

About Wild Flower and Vegetable Picking

Shiga Kogen is located within a national park, sharing its natural environment with local land management association. PLEASE NOTE THAT PICKING ANY PLANTS OR VEGETABLES IS PROHIBITED FOR GUESTS WHO DO NOT HAVE PERMISSION TO ENTER THE MOUNTAINS. It is also expressly forbidden to capture, hunt or take animals from the area. Our natural resources are limited, so please resist the temptation to take more than you need, and enjoy this environment with respect.

Inquiries via Telephone

TEL.
0269-34-2404
FAX.
0269-34-2344

Please call between 8:30～17:00/ Available all year round (Subject to temporary closures)

Inquiries via Email

Inquiries Group Reservations
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