Japan's Largest Interconnected Ski Area
About This Resort
Shiga Kogen is a ski resort in Yamanochi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
The mountain has 84 runs and 52 lifts. It drops 915 metres from top to base, and the longest run measures 6 km.
That makes Shiga Kogen the largest of the 78 ski areas in Nagano Prefecture with a published run count.
The resort has a terrain park and a dedicated family area. It is known for its powder. Snowmaking covers the base runs when natural cover is thin.
The season runs from early December to early May.
Location
Prefecture: Nagano
Address: Yamanochi, Nagano, Japan
Postal Code: 381-0401
Spoken Languages: Japanese
Season Information
Season: December 05, 2026 - May 05, 2027
Closed for Season
Note: Season dates are predictions and may change. Early and late season (November/December and April/May) may have limited snow coverage. Please check current conditions before planning your trip.
Access
7148 Hirao, Yamanochi, Nagano
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Sign InFrequently Asked Questions
How many ski areas does Shiga Kogen include?
Shiga Kogen comprises 18 interconnected ski areas, making it Japan's largest ski resort. One lift ticket covers all areas, connected by lifts and shuttle buses. Plan multiple days to explore the full terrain.
Can I see snow monkeys near Shiga Kogen?
Yes! Jigokudani Monkey Park is about 30 minutes from Shiga Kogen by car or bus. Watch wild Japanese macaques bathe in hot springs surrounded by snow, a unique winter experience.
Which areas are best for beginners at Shiga Kogen?
Ichinose Family and Sun Valley have wide gentle slopes that are ideal for first-timers and improving beginners. Yokoteyama and Maruike also have plenty of green terrain. The ski schools at Ichinose Diamond and Hasuike offer English-speaking instructors by prior booking, group lessons fill up on weekends, so reserve ahead.
How much does a Shiga Kogen lift ticket cost?
The all-mountain Shiga Kogen common pass, covering every lift and the inter-area shuttle, is around ¥7,000–8,000 for a peak-season adult day, with multi-day passes giving a meaningful per-day discount. Single-area passes (e.g. Ichinose-only, Yakebitai-only) are sold but rarely worth it once you realise how connected the area is. Children, students and seniors get standard discounts.
How long is Shiga Kogen's ski season?
Shiga Kogen has one of Japan's longest seasons: in 2026-2027 the shared Shiga Kogen lift ticket runs from 5 December 2026 to 5 May 2027, and Yakebitaiyama opens a day earlier, on 4 December. Individual areas can set their own dates. The highest area, Yokoteyama (the rooftop of the Shiga Kogen ski area, around 2,300 m at the summit), can open ahead of the rest when conditions allow, and the upper Kumanoyu / Yokoteyama runs hold spring snow well into Golden Week. Lower areas close earlier as snow recedes.
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