Shiga Kogen, Nagano – Japan’s Largest and Highest Ski Resort
Shiga Kogen in the Nagano prefecture is the largest and highest ski resort in Japan, famous for its breathtaking alpine scenery and excellent snow quality. It’s made up of 18 interconnected ski areas: Okushiga Kogen, Yakebitaiyama, Terakoya, Takamagahara Mammoth, Tannne no mori Okojyo, Ichinose Family, Ichinose Diamond, Ichinose Yamanokami, Nisidateyama, Higashidatayama, Hooppo Bunadaira, Giant, Hasuike, Maruike, Sunvalley, Kumanoyu, Yokoteyama and Shibutoge.
The resort stretches across elevations from 1,325 meters to 2,307 meters and features 48 lifts and gondolas, all connected by an efficient shuttle bus service. With an all-mountain common lift pass, you’re free to explore any of these areas throughout your visit.
Just two hours from Nagano City, Shiga Kogen offers a vast, high‑altitude ski experience with long ski season lasting from mid‑November to May. You can enjoy seamless access to the local onsen and visit the famous snow monkeys, carve fresh runs and soak in panoramic mountain views in Japan’s ultimate winter playground.
12+
Metres of snow each year
18
Interconnected ski resorts
88
Ski slopes
70
Lifts & gondolas
6 km
Longest ski run
Shiga Kogen Ski Resort: Area Guide
Shiga Kogen was originally made up of 18 separate ski resorts that eventually joined together under one lift pass. Each area offers its own unique vibe and specialties. Explore our quick guide to the best spots!
1. Okushiga Area: Family Friendly and Powder Heaven
Okushiga has a dedicated kids' park and forest course, plus kids' room, making it a top pick for families. It offers runs for all abilities and is unique for relying solely on natural snow. Powder lovers will find plenty of long tree runs which are easy to access through the official backcountry gates.
2. Yakebitaiyama Area: Favorite for International Skiers
The largest area in the Shiga Kogen highlands, Yakebitaiyama is famous for its beautiful conifer forests and some of the best snow in the area. The Olympic Course, used in the Nagano Games, is a thrilling 2+ km giant slalom run popular with skiers of all levels. Elementary school kids ski for free here.
3. Central Area: Perfect for Beginners
The largest zone, with 13 interconnected resorts, offers a wide range of courses. Families and beginners will love the Rabbit Course at Ichinose Diamond and the Monkey Course at Ichinose Yamanokami which have gentle slopes ideal for learning and fun. For advanced skiers, Higashi-Tateyama has the famous giant slalom course used in the 1998 Nagano Olympics, a rare chance to ski where the pros competed.
4. Yokoteyama Area: Japan’s Highest Skiing Point
At 2,307 meters, Yokoteyama and Shibutoge are the highest ski areas in Japan. Enjoy fresh, natural powder and breathtaking 360-degree views. On clear days, you can see from Mt. Fuji all the way to the Sea of Japan. The area features varied terrain, from winding intermediate runs to challenging forest trails and steep off-piste slopes. Don’t miss the Yokote Sancho Hütte, Japan’s highest-altitude bakery, famous for its fresh bread (usually sells out by mid-morning!).
5. Kumanoyu Area: Quality Powder for Families
Known for its smooth, long-lasting powder snow, Kumanoyu faces north and sits at a high altitude. It has five lifts and 12 runs, mostly suited for beginners, kids, and intermediate skiers. Families will appreciate the Chibikko Hiroba (Children’s Square) where kids can sled and play safely, while mogul skiers can practice on the dedicated Mogul Run.
Attractions and Sightseeing
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Located in the west of Shiga Kogen, Jigokudani Yaen-koen is famous for its wild snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs during winter. This unique wildlife experience offers stunning photo opportunities in a snowy, steaming landscape.
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is accessible by a 30-minute drive or bus ride from Shiga Kogen, plus a scenic 30-minute forest walk, it’s one of the rare places worldwide to see macaques in their natural habitat. Visitors should observe without feeding or touching, respecting the wild nature of these iconic Japanese monkeys.
Yudanaka & Shibu Onsen – Traditional Hot Spring Villages
At the foot of Shiga Kogen, Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen are historic onsen towns famous for traditional ryokans and authentic Japanese charm. Many guests enjoy strolling through the streets dressed in traditional yukata robes and wooden geta sandals, hopping between the numerous public and free hot springs. In Shibu Onsen, there are nine public baths that visitors can explore while wearing this traditional attire. The onsen in these towns are generally exclusive to guests staying at local ryokans, ensuring a peaceful and authentic experience. Besides the relaxing baths, both Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen offer a variety of dining options, making them ideal bases for those who appreciate a lively yet traditional evening atmosphere after a day on the slopes.
Kusatsu - Shirane area
Mount Shirane (白根山, Shiranesan), also known as Kusatsu-Shirane, is a volcanic mountain located just outside the famous onsen town of Kusatsu. It is a popular hiking destination in summer and autumn, attracting visitors with its breathtaking views and vibrant seasonal colors.
At the crater of Mount Shirane lies the striking turquoise sulfurous lake called Yugama, a natural wonder that captivates all who visit.
During winter and especially in spring, the area transforms into an excellent backcountry skiing and snowboarding zone, offering adventurous terrain for experienced riders.
Obuse Town
Just about an hour’s drive from Shiga Kogen, Obuse is a charming town known for its quaint town center, the famous Hokusai Museum, and delicious local chestnut specialties. It’s an ideal destination for a quick half-day side trip.
Chestnuts are a regional culinary highlight here and can be enjoyed in many tasty varieties around the museum area.
For ski and snowboard freestyle enthusiasts, Obuse Quest also offers a fantastic training facility featuring small to large jumps with inflatable cushions designed to ensure safe landings and perfect your skills.
Zenkoji Temple
Just 1.8km from Nagano Station, Zenko-ji Temple dates back to 642CE, making it one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Buddhist sites.
It enshrines the hidden ‘Image of Sangoku Denrai’, a sacred statue brought from India in 552CE and believed to guide all souls to the Pure Land. Though concealed from public view since 654CE, this 1,400‑year‑old icon has been believed to lead all the people to the Buddhist Pure Land regardless of their status, gender or creed. It has been earnestly worshipped by many people from those in power at the time to the common people.
Nagano 1998 Winter Olympics
During the XVIII Olympic Winter Games in Nagano, several Alpine and snowboarding events took place in Shiga Kogen.
Mount Yakebitai and Mount Higashidate hosted Alpine competitions, while the Kanbayashi Snowboard Park, adjacent to the Snow Monkey Park, was the venue for Olympic halfpipe events.
Kanbayashi also holds historical significance as the birthplace of skiing in Shiga Kogen, introduced by a German couple in 1913. Notably, the Nagano Games marked snowboarding’s Olympic debut, featuring men’s and women’s giant slalom and halfpipe.
