Located at an altitude of around 2,000 meters, the Higashitateyama Alpine Botanical Garden is home to over 500 species of rare alpine plants.
Why not take a relaxing journey through the sky by riding three gondolas and enjoy a peaceful stroll through this mountain-top garden?
Access
For those arriving by public transportation:
Upon arriving at Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki, the central bus terminal in Shiga Kogen, you can purchase tickets for the Golden Line which includes the Resort Gondola, Bunadaira Gondola, and Higashitateyama Gondola, connecting these three gondolas on a scenic route.
From there, simply board the Resort Gondola and transfer through each of the three gondolas to reach the summit.
For those arriving by car:
Parking is available at the Higashitateyama Gondola Station and Hoppo Onsen Bus Stop parking lot. From Hoppo Onsen Bus Stop parking lot, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the Higashidateyama Gondola station, where you can take the gondola directly to the summit.
Please note that walking between the gondola stations and from the parking lot to the gondola station involves passing through parts of the ski resort, including some steep slopes. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for a pleasant journey.
During the summer season, a free shuttle service runs between the Bunadaira Gondola and the Iwasuge Hotel. Although reservations are not accepted, the shuttle operates regularly along this route, so please feel free to use it when you see it.
Golden Line and Higashitateyama Gondola Information
- OPEN
- 14 June to 3 November 2025 *Close 8-12 September
- HOURS
- 9:00 – 16:00
- TICKET FOR GOLDEN LINE
- Adult: ￥3,000/1-day
Child: ￥1,800/1-day
- TICKET FOR HIGASHITATEYMA GONDOLA
- Adult: ￥2,000/return
Child: ￥1,100/return
- TICKET AVAILABLE AT
- Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki
- INQUIRY
- Shiga Kogen Resort Inc. TEL: 0269-34-2301
Higashitateyama Gondola Office TEL: 0269-34-2231
- Check the last gondola time. (After the last gondola, descent is on foot only!)
- It’s 5–10°C cooler at the mountaintop. Bring an extra layer.
- Paths may be slippery. Wear sturdy shoes!
A Glimpse into the Alpine Botanical Garden
Shiga Kogen Resort Gondola: Next to the Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki Bus Terminal
Riding the Winter Gondola, Enjoying Summer Fresh Views
In early July, the slopes of Mt. Higashidate are brightly colored with the vivid orange and yellow of daylilies (Nikko Kisuge). When these flowers begin to bloom, it’s a sure sign that summer has arrived for us.
Higashitateyama Gondola Station
After getting off the gondola and entering the building, you will find the Stand Bar Alpina immediately inside. Restrooms are also located on this floor, so please feel free to use them before or after your walk. The alpine botanical garden can be accessed directly from this level.
Upstairs, there is a restaurant the Rooftop Dining and an observation deck. On clear days, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Hokushin Five Peaks and the Zenkoji Plain. To the left, you may spot Lake Onuma nestled between the mountains, and below, the ski slopes of Shiga Kogen stretch out in a dramatic landscape.
For more details about the Stand Bar Alpina and the Rooftop Dining, check this page!
Step Off the Gondola, and the Garden Awaits You
July Blooms: Yellow Daylilies (Nikko Kisuge) Under the Gondola
Shiga Kogen Bursts Into Bloom June Through September
Iris setosa – Early July
Cornus canadensis – June to July
Dicentra peregrina “the Queen of Alpine Flowers” – Late July
Right in front of the gondola station, there’s a wooden deck—perfect for relaxing with snacks or lunch while enjoying the surrounding nature.
Again, please make sure to check the return gondola schedule and enjoy your time!
