We get it, driving on winter roads by yourself in Japan sounds so cool and fun, and it’s definitely a unique experience.
However, it’s important not to forget that there are risks involved. That’s why we’ve put together some tips on how to drive safely on winter roads in Shiga Kogen.
Just one wrong decision can lead to a serious accident, and it could ruin your whole trip. That would be really sad for all of us. So, DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE IT — it’s always best to be well-prepared mentally, physically and with the right equipment.
In Japan, there’s a saying: “The trip isn’t over until you get home” and “Your souvenir is a safe journey back home.”
We hope you have an amazing time and create as many wonderful memories as possible!
If you still want to drive by yourself, please make sure to install snow chains in advance at either the Michinoeki (Roadside Station) Yamanouchi or the Kambayashi Chain Installation Station at the base of Shiga Kogen.
The road leading up to Shiga Kogen is prone to ice, and it can be extremely dangerous for 2WD vehicles without winter tyres and chains, so we kindly ask you to avoid driving up in such vehicles.
If You Still Plan to Rent a Car
Please make sure to follow these rules:
- Rent a 4WD vehicle with winter tyres
- Carry snow chains (and learn how to use them in advance)
- Inform the rental company that you will be driving in mountainous areas
If driving is a concern, please refer the following section to see your option.
Again, please note that the road to Shiga Kogen is a single-lane mountain road and can be icy. Accidents can cause traffic delays and ruin your trip, so please consider your options carefully and make a smart choice.
All the carparks in Shiga Kogen are free
Some hotels have parking spaces reserved exclusively for their guests.
Please refrain from parking if you are not staying at the hotel.
For Campervans
- Shiga Kogen is part of the Joshin’etsu Kogen National Park, so overnight stays in camper vans are generally not allowed.
- There are no 24-hour convenience stores or supermarkets within Shiga Kogen.
- The temperature can drop as low as -15°C at night, and even with proper cold-weather gear, it can become extremely cold once you turn off the engine.
For those traveling by camper van, we recommend to use the Shinshu Michinoeki Yamanouchi (Roadside Station) located at the foot of Shiga Kogen. This facility is open 24 hours and is close to a convenience store. (Note that there are no shower facilities here.)
If you are staying until the evening, you can use the nearby hot spring facilities such as Kaedeno Yu near Yudanaka Station, O-Yu in Shibu Onsen, or WakuWakuno Yu in Kamibayashi.
Your Option: Bus Trip To Shiga Kogen
For those who are concerned about driving on winter roads, if you’re unsure whether your rental car is equipped with winter tyres or is a 4WD, or if you’re not feeling well, don’t worry.
You can take a bus from a bus stop near the Snow Monkey Park at the base of Shiga Kogen, and it will take you to Shiga Kogen in just 20 minutes.
Additionally, from Sun Valley onwards, a free shuttle bus service is available every day (between 08:30 and 17:30). Please check the bus timetable here.
Wishing you a fantastic time in Shiga Kogen!
