Shiga Kogen Tourism Association Official Website

Is This Your First Time Visiting Shiga Kogen? Welcome!

This page answers many of the most frequently asked questions we receive in the lead-up to the 2025–2026 winter season — including hotel reservations, ski area operations, lift passes, and how to get here.

We hope you’ll take a moment to read through before sending us an inquiry — your answer might already be here!
 

Accommodation Reservations

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan’s largest ski resorts, made up of 18 interconnected ski areas. Many hotels are conveniently located right on the slopes with ski-in, ski-out access.

There are approximately 80 lodging facilities across the resort. Most hotels begin accepting reservations for the 2025–2026 season from 1st September 2025 onwards, though some may start earlier.

If you’ve already decided on your travel dates and preferred area, we’d be happy to send you a list of recommended accommodations.
The more details you can share with us (like the ones below), the more specific and helpful we can be — and it really helps us, too!

• Desired area
• Desired dates
• Number of guests
• Number of rooms
• Any special requests (e.g. room type)

Ski Area Operations

The opening and closing dates of the ski areas vary depending on snow and weather conditions, so it’s difficult to give firm dates in advance.

Shiga Kogen has 18 ski areas, which don’t open all at once but rather in stages depending on snowfall. For your reference, in the 2024–2025 season, the first areas opened in late November, with full operations by the end of December.

Please check the Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort website for real-time updates on ski area status and lift operations during the winter season.

Lift Pass

The All-Mountain Pass, which allows access to all 18 ski areas in Shiga Kogen, will be available starting 1st September 2025, Full details will be available via the button below.

In addition, Single-Area Passes will be available for purchase on the websites of the ski areas listed below. Please click or tap on the name of your preferred area!

• Okushiga Kogen Ski Area
• Yakebitaiyama Ski Area
• Central Ski Area
• Kumanoyu Ski Area
• Yokoteyama/Shibutoge Ski Area

Access

How to Get to Shiga Kogen

There are several ways to reach Shiga Kogen, depending on where you’re coming from and your travel preferences. However, the easiest and most convenient option is to take the express bus from Nagano Station.

If Taking the Express Bus

Upon arriving at Nagano Station, head to Bus Stop No. 23.
Payment can also be made when you get off the bus, but we highly recommend booking in advance, especially during the busy winter season. Extra buses may run during peak times — check with the bus company for the latest schedule.

Note: “Winter Bus Access” page shows 2024–2025 details. Timetables for the upcoming season will be updated around October.
 

If Booking a Private Coach

For large groups or travelers with bulky luggage, a private coach from the airport may be a convenient option. While we do not book these directly, we can provide a list of recommended companies upon request.

Rental Equipment

Rental shops are available in each ski area, so you can come empty-handed if needed!
Sizes and quantities are limited, so we recommend contacting rental shops in advance. Some shops also accept online reservations, so be sure to check ahead.

Ski & Snowboard Lessons

Take your skiing or snowboarding skills to the next level with lessons from certified instructors.

Multiple ski schools in Shiga Kogen offer lessons in several languages. You can choose to take lessons at the ski area nearest your hotel, or travel to your preferred location.

Please contact the individual schools directly for details on times, pricing, and availability.

Other Activities

Not into skiing or snowboarding, but still want to enjoy the snow? Shiga Kogen offers a variety of non-ski winter activities too!

Snowshoe Hiking Guided Tour

Explore hidden areas inaccessible by skis or boards. Guided tours are led by Shiga Kogen official outdoor guides and require no special skills or prior training — perfect for beginners and nature lovers alike! Click the following banner for more details.

Kids Snow Parks

Safe and fun areas for children to enjoy the snow are available at Okushiga Kogen, Yakebitaiyama, Maruike, and Kumanoyu.

Snow e-Bikes

New in the 2024–2025 season! Ride specially equipped electric bikes through snow-covered landscapes in Yakebitaiyama Ski Area.

Digital Map: SHIGA KOGEN NAVIGATOR

Our official digital map is available to help you make the most of your time in the expansive Shiga Kogen ski resort.

If you’re seeking any of the information listed below…

• Real-time lift status
• Transportation between ski areas
• Bus time schedules
• Restaurants and hotels locations

SHIGA KOGEN NAVIGATOR will help you to fully enjoy the vast Shiga Kogen ski resort. Easily access it from the banner below – and don’t forget to bookmark it!

Please note that this service is available via web browser (no app required).

Restaurants

 
Recharge between ski runs at one of the many local restaurants in each ski area. You’ll find hearty Japanese comfort foods that are perfect after a day on the slopes!
Each restaurant has its own unique menu, so be sure to explore and try something new.

Medical & Emergency Services

During the winter season, a seasonal medical center operates on the second floor of Restaurant Diamond in Ichinose Diamond Ski Area.

Emergency contact information for the winter season is available via the link button below. Please contact the appropriate service if needed.

Lost & Found

If you’ve lost an item, please contact the patrol team of the ski area where you believe the item was lost.

Wi-Fi & SIM Cards

Most hotels in Shiga Kogen offer free Wi-Fi. However, please note that Wi-Fi is not available on outdoor slopes.
We recommend purchasing a SIM card that works in Japan before your trip. SIM cards are not sold in Shiga Kogen, so please buy one at:

• Airports
• Mobile phone stores in Nagano Station
• Some convenience stores in cities

Please note that there are no supermarkets and convenient stores in Shiga Kogen.

Convenience Stores, Supermarkets & ATMs

Supermarkets and Convenience Stores

Since Shiga Kogen is located within Joshin’etsu National Park, there are no convenience stores or supermarkets.
It’s a different experience from the “convenient Japan” you might imagine — but that’s part of the charm.

Instead, you’ll find pristine snowy landscapes, star-filled skies, and pure mountain air — a truly special experience. Leave the noise of the city behind and surrender to the peaceful rhythm of nature.

ATM

There is only one ATM in Shiga Kogen, located inside the Japan Post Office in Hasuike (Central Area).

Opening Hours
Weekdays: 9:00 – 17:30
Saturdays: 9:00 – 12:30
Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Most places in Shiga Kogen accept credit cards, but some facilities may still require cash, so it’s a good idea to bring some with you.

Luggage Delivery Service

You can send your luggage in advance using services like Yamato Transport or Sagawa Express, and enjoy a hassle-free journey.

If you plan to send your luggage to your hotel, please contact the hotel in advance to confirm whether they can accept deliveries.

Note: Please do not use the Shiga Kogen Tourism Association as a delivery address.

Before You Contact Us…

We hope this guide helps make your planning easier and your stay in Shiga Kogen more enjoyable.
If you still have questions after reading, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

We look forward to welcoming you to Shiga Kogen!