Ride-Shiga - Shiga-Kogen Guides - Snowboard Lessons

LESSONS

When does the season start/finish?

First lifts in Shiga Kogen usually open in late November and the season lasts until the first weekend of May.

What’s the best duration of the lessons for a beginner?

Typically, we recommend 2-3 all day (5+ hours) lessons for first timers.

Which should I pick: ski or snowboard?

People often say skiing is generally easy to learn initially but is harder to master. Snowboarding is harder to learn but reaching an advanced level is easier, but from our experience both usually take about the same amount of time to get the basics so just pick what you are drawn to more.

What lesson should I book: group or private?

Group lessons are cheaper (the price is per person) but can be joined by different people. They’re mainly intended for individuals or small groups traveling solo and want to join others. Private lessons, on the other hand, can’t be joined by other people, and the number of people in the group doesn’t change the price – you pay per instructor. If you’re looking for a more tailored experience or want to focus on specific skills, private lessons may be the better option.

Which should I pick: ski or snowboard?

People often say skiing is generally easy to learn initially but is harder to master. Snowboarding is harder to learn but reaching an advanced level is easier, but from our experience both usually take about the same amount of time to get the basics so just pick what you are drawn to more.

Can skiers and snowboarders attend lessons together?

Unfortunately, skiing and snowboarding are different sports so cannot attend lessons together and would require separate lessons.

Can different ability levels attend the same lesson?

They can, however not if you want everyone to get the most out of the lesson. Group lessons are divided by skill level to ensure the best learning experience. Private lessons can accommodate mixed ability levels, with instruction tailored to the least experienced participant.

At what age can my kids start skiing/snowboarding?

Typically, children can start skiing or snowboarding around the age of 4 years old.

What languages do your instructors speak?

We have instructors from around the world so we can offer private lessons in multiple languages upon request and availability. All group lessons are conducted in English.

Do you offer night skiing lessons?

Yes, we do offer night skiing lessons.

BOOKING

How do I book a lesson?

Book your lesson via our website or contact us directly by email or phone. Don’t forget to specify dates, participants, lesson type (ski/snowboard), and include your phone number with the country code.
You can find our price lists here.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance booking is highly recommended to secure preferred lesson times and arrangements.

What’s the payment method accepted?

For your convenience we send invoices online ahead of the planned lesson.
Please note that displayed prices incorporate a 10% tax.

Can lessons be rescheduled or canceled?

Rescheduling or canceling lessons depends on our availability and prior notice. Contact us as soon as possible in case of any changes.
Cancellations made within 7 days of the scheduled product and or service start date will attract the following fees:
- 30% of product and/or service price where cancellation is made between 7 days and 48 hours prior to the scheduled start time/date specified in the booking.
- 50% of the product and/or service price where cancellation is made up to 11AM the day prior to the scheduled start time/date specified in the booking.
- 100% of the product and/or service price where cancellation is made after 11AM the day prior to the scheduled start time/date specified in the booking.

LIFT PASSES

Are lift passes included in the lesson fee?

No, lift passes are not included. Participants are responsible for acquiring their own passes.

How much are the lift passes?

For beginners, you may not require a ski pass on the first day, depending on the lesson duration and your learning pace. In some cases, a point pass (the most affordable option at 3200 yen) will suffice.
Here’s a full lift ticket price list of Shiga Kogen.

Should I book the lift pass online?

There’s no need to book the ticket. You can buy it in the ticket office before the lesson.

EQUIPMENT/RENTAL

Do you provide equipment rentals?

We don’t offer equipment rentals directly.

What gear do I need? Where should I get it?

We recommend SnowCan Rental since they provide all the necessary equipment – ski/snowboard set, helmets, goggles, gloves and wear (jackets and pants).
You can find their price list over here.

Should I book the gear in advance?

Yes, we suggest booking the gear in advance to expedite the rental process on the day.

Do I need avalanche gear for backcountry/slackcountry tours?

Yes, avalanche gear, including transceivers, probes, and shovels, is mandatory for backcountry/slackcountry tours. Rental gear is available upon request.
- 1 day – ¥4,000
- 3 or more days – ¥3,000 per day

GETTING HERE

How do I get to the meeting point for lessons?

For your lessons or guiding sessions, we’ll usually meet you right at your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free experience without transportation concerns.
For the group lessons, meet us conveniently at our meeting point in SnowCan rental in Ichinose at the heart of Shiga Kogen.

Is there a transportation option available?

We do offer transportation services from all Hotel/Ryokans in Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka areas; however, availability might be limited during busy periods. Kindly provide specific dates and times to check our availability.

How to get to Shiga Kogen?

Please check the information provided at the bottom of the Shiga Kogen page on our website.

OTHER

Where should I stay?

We recommend staying around the Ichinose area – the only “village” in Shiga Kogen.
Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen are two towns at the bottom of Shiga Kogen Resort. Those historical Onsen areas are an excellent base if you want to stay in a traditional japanese Ryokan not far from Shiga Kogen.