Shiga Kogen ski resort is made up of 18 ski resorts, and this large ski field can be divided into 5 areas known as Okushiga kogen, Yakebitaiyama, Central, Kumanoyu and Yokoteyama/Shibutoge.
These 5 areas are separated into 2 sections.
First section: Okushiga kogen, Yakebitaiyama and Central areas are connected by lifts or skiing and walking.
Second section: Kumanoyu and Yokoteyama/Shibutoge areas are also connected by lifts or skiing and walking.
These 2 sections are not connected, it is accessible by a shuttle bus or car.
Those who aims to make a tour of all Shiga Kogen ski resorts must keep in mind the shuttle bus timetable because the number of shuttle bus is limited.
Bus timetable is here.
*The buses highlighted in the blue frame on the schedule are free of charge.
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Okushiga Kogen area
This ski resort is only covered with natural snow because they don’t use a snowmaking machine. You can enjoy 100% natural powder snow, especially on the ungroomed slope. This area is situated far end of Shiga Kogen filled with the atmosphere of a luxury ski resort. English speaking ski/snowboard lessons are available. There is a free kid’s park.
Yakebitaiyama area
You can appreciate long rides on this large ski field. As a single ski resort, Yakebitaiyama is the largest of 18 ski resorts in Shiga Kogen. They offer a rich variety of courses such as an Olympic course, bumpy slopes, ungroomed powdery slopes and more. They provide the first tracks service, a free kid’s park, and free lift passes for kids 12 years old and under.
Central area
13 ski resorts are gathered in this area. There are plenty of family friendly slopes and Maruike kid’s park rents many fun items for kids. From the summit of Terakoya to the bottom area, you can enjoy 6km long run. Different from the other areas, many restaurant options for dinner are available around Ichinose family ski resort in this area.
Central area combines: Sun Valley Ski Resort, Maruike Ski Resort, Hasuike Ski Resort, Giant Ski Resort, Hoppobunadaira Ski Resort, Higashitateyama Ski Resort, Nishitateyama Ski Resort, Terakoya Ski Resort, Takamagahara Mammoth Ski Resort, Tanne no Mori Okojo Ski Resort, Ichinose Family Ski Resort, Ichinose Diamond Ski Resort, Ichinose Yamanokami Ski Resort
Kumanoyu area
Because Kumanoyu ski resort forms like an amphitheater facing to north, their slopes can easily accumulate much quantity of snow. You can also enjoy the great view surrounded by mountains from the summit. As its form with one center house at the base area, easy to meet up with your party after riding or to take a break together. The hotels at this area provide onsens.
Yokoteyama/Shibutoge
Yokoteyama/Shibutoge ski resort is famous of its 2,307m altitude and this is the highest ski resort in Japan. You cannot miss the great view from the summit. Because of this high altitude, it offers long ski seasons and high quality of snow. In this area, the earliest the snow season could start is at the end of November to end the latest mid-May. They also provide the snow monster tour.
All-mountain lift pass covers all 5 areas. Each area also provides its own area lift pass.
For more information about lift pass:
https://www.shigakogen.gr.jp/english/topics/which-lift-pass-should-i-buy.html