Activities
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and a variety of seasonal activities, all year round.
Nature Experiences Woven by the Seasons of Shiga Kogen
Surrounded by rich natural beauty,
Shiga Kogen offers trekking and hiking through alpine flowers, lakes, and wetlands in spring and summer.
In autumn, the mountains are painted in vivid hues of red and gold,
while winter transforms the area into one of Japan’s premier ski destinations,
renowned for its light powder snow and diverse slopes.
Enjoy inspiring activities amid nature’s ever-changing scenery,
unique to each season.
Winter Season
Home to 18 interconnected ski areas, Shiga Kogen offers one of Japan’s most expansive winter playgrounds.
Set across high-altitude slopes from 1,300 to 2,300 meters, the resort is renowned for its light, natural powder snow.
With over 80 varied courses, everyone from first-time skiers to seasoned experts can find their perfect run.
Two ski slopes are just a 5-minute walk away.
Enjoy seamless lift connections that allow you to ski directly to Okushiga Kogen Ski Area.
- Maruike Ski Area:
- 2–3 minutes on foot
- Giant Ski Area:
- 3–5 minutes on foot
For access to Yokoteyama, Kumanoyu, Okushiga, and Yakebitaiyama, guests can take advantage of the free ski shuttle bus connecting all 18 ski areas throughout Shiga Kogen.
The shuttle is also available for non-skiers, making it easy to explore the area without equipment.
Conveniently located near Yama-no-Eki (Mountain Bus Station), our property offers excellent bus access.
- Hasuike Hiroba Bus Stop:
- 2–3 minutes on foot
- Yama-no-Eki Bus Station:
- 3–5 minutes on foot
スキー場情報
-
Maruike Ski Area
The closest ski area to the hotel, featuring a kids’ park and gentle slopes.
Easy and convenient access for families and beginners.2–3 minutes’ walk to the slopes -
Giant Ski Area
Accessible via the Nanamagari Course or the new Pulse Gondola from Yamanoue Station.
Known for its long, dynamic runs.3–5 minutes’ walk to the slopes -
Yokoteyama Ski Area
At 2,030 meters above sea level, Yokoteyama offers breathtaking winter scenery.
On clear days, you may even see Mt. Fuji from the summit.3–5 minutes’ walk to the slopes → 20–25 minutes by bus -
Kumano-yu Ski Area
Open from late November to early May, this area offers excellent powder snow and beautiful natural surroundings at elevations of 1,700–1,960 meters.
2–3 minutes’ walk to the slopes -
Takamagahara Ski Area
A popular central area with access to Ichinose, Higashidateyama, and Nishidateyama. Offers a wide range of courses from beginner to advanced.
Accessible by lift connections → 15–20 minutes by bus -
Ichinose Family Ski Area
A lively central area popular with families, with access to Terakoya slopes.
Accessible by lift connections → 20–25 minutes by bus -
Yakebitaiyama Ski Area
Known as “Yakebi,” this area is especially popular with snowboarders.
Wide runs and high-quality snow make it a favorite among enthusiasts.Accessible by lift connections → 25–30 minutes by bus -
Okushiga Kogen Ski Area
Located at the far end of Shiga Kogen, Okushiga offers a serene and luxurious resort atmosphere.
Ideal for those seeking a quieter, more refined ski experience.Accessible by lift connections → 30–40 minutes by bus
snowshoes
Explore the snowy landscapes on a guided snowshoe tour, a perfect way to experience the winter wonderland.
Shiga Kogen Nature Conservation Center
Ski Rentals
Ski & Snowboard Rental Charge (with tax, discounted) (JP)
discount price /Hotel guest, 2023-2024
| 3 ski set | ski board | ski boots | ski sticks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Half day | ¥3,600 | ¥2,000 | （¥1,700） | ¥600 |
| 1 day | ¥4,500 | ¥2,600 | （¥2,200） | ¥800 |
| 2 days | ¥7,400 | ¥4,000 | （¥3,600） | ¥1,300 |
| 3 days | ¥10,500 | ¥5,400 | （¥5,000） | ¥1,900 |
| Additional half day | ¥1,300 | ¥800 | （¥700） | ¥250 |
All ski rentals and useful facilities available at our hotel. Rental ski, wear, gears, snowboard at reasonable price. There is also a drying room for ski/snowboad boots.
* Prices are offered discounted rates for our guests.
* Rental packages are also available for 3 days and 4days.
* Available ski boot size is 31cm(48)(UK 12)(Men 13) and snowboard boot size is 29cm (46 )(UK 10)(Men 11). Reservations are required for larger size.
* During peak season, ski and snowboard gear rental service is only available for guests staying with us
*Extra fees apply for some special skis.
Green Season
Shiga Kogen, a national park recognized as a UNESCO Eco Park, is a nature-rich area visited by many travelers. While popular among tourists, the “core zones” remain largely untouched, preserving vast primeval forests. Around these areas, you’ll find mystical subalpine conifer forests, beautiful lakes, and high-altitude wetlands—an unspoiled natural environment unique to Shiga Kogen.
The Hasu-Ike area serves as a convenient gateway to popular spring, summer, and autumn trails, such as the Ōnuma Pond and Shijūhachi-ike Pond circuits. Encounter delicate alpine flowers, enjoy deep forest bathing in ancient woodlands, and immerse yourself in the crisp air and pristine waters—a truly revitalizing experience for both body and mind.
Recommended Hiking Trails
With over 20 diverse hiking trails spread across elevations from 1,500 to 2,300 meters,
the area is best enjoyed from late May to early November.
A walk through the pristine highland forests, rich in phytoncides,
offers a refreshing “forest bathing” experience.
These trails are officially recognized as a Forest Therapy Road,
known for their relaxing and wellness benefits.
-
Nature Discovery Trail (Shizen Tansho course)
This trail from Nagaike to Shiga Mountain offers a great opportunity to see rare flowers, plants, trees, and geological formations. Wildlife, especially a number of different species of birds seen here, is something special.
Distance: 4 kilometers
Estimated Hiking Time: 2 hours
Vertical Drop: 160 meters -
Lake Trail (Ike-meguli course)
This is one of the best trails to hike during the summer. Many beautiful lakes and wetlands situated along the trail are created by the eruption of Shiga Mountain. The high points are flower-surrounded Shijuike Lake and cobalt blue Onumaike Lake.
Distance: 10 kilometers
Estimated Hiking Time: 3.5 hours
Vertical Drop: 360 meters
Ichinuma Lake Trail, Yokoteyama Panorama Trail and Seseragi Trail are all excellent hiking trails which can be completed in half an hour and perfectly suitable for family hiking.
For any assistance about hiking, please ask any questions to us.