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Shiga Kogen Central Area
Shiga Kogen’s Central Area is the resort’s most user-friendly hub, with wide cruisers, kids’ zones, and night skiing around Ichinose. With plentiful services and a prime location for exploring the wider area, it’s ideal for families, beginners, and relaxed ski trips.
Last Updated: November 24, 2025 by Tak
Currently Closed
0cm
Base Depth
0cm
Fresh Snow
1°C
Temperature
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Powder Quality
7.0
Legendary Japanese powder
Terrain Variety
7.0
Diverse slopes & terrain
Family Friendly
9.0
Perfect for all ages
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About the Resort
Shiga Kogen Central Area (Sun Valley to Ichinose) is the resort’s most user-friendly hub, known for wide, well-groomed pistes that suit beginners through strong intermediates and for family-friendly facilities. Around Sun Valley–Maruike–Hasuike you’ll find the main transport hub and plenty of services; head further in and you reach Ichinose Family & Diamond and Tanne no Mori, where the elevation rises gently and night skiing (mainly at Ichinose) lets you extend your day. Expect long, low-angle cruisers, kids’ zones with magic carpets, and lots of dining and rest options. Sitting in the middle of Shiga Kogen, it’s a perfect base for exploring—with easy access toward Yakebitaiyama or Takamagahara–Higashidate. Ideal for short stays, skill-building trips, and stress-free family skiing.
Why You'll Love Shiga Kogen Central Area
Legendary Powder Snow
World-famous "Japow"
Experience the incredibly light, dry powder snow that Japan is famous for worldwide, with consistent snowfall throughout the season.
Diverse Terrain
All skill levels welcome
From gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs, there's something for every skier and snowboarder.
Easy Access
Convenient transportation
Well-connected by efficient public transport including bullet trains, making it easy to reach from major cities.
Family Friendly
Perfect for all ages
Safe and enjoyable environment for families with dedicated beginner areas and professional instruction.
Snow History
Plan Your Visit
Ticket Information
Operating Season
December 20 - March 31
Weather dependent
Operating Hours
Lifts: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Night Skiing: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Weekends)
Current Prices
1-Day Lift Ticket (Adult)6,300 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Child)3,150 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Senior)6,300 yen
Access Information
Location
By Car
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Nagano IC→Route19→Shiga Kogen (3hr30min)
Parking
3,000 spaces
By Train
Tokyo Station→Nagano Station(1hr20min)→Bus(1hr30min)→Shiga Kogen
Lessons
Lesson in Japanese
Ski Lesson : from 4,600 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 4,600 yen
Travel Tips
🚌 Getting There
Tokyo Station→Nagano Station(1hr20min)→Bus(1hr30min)→Shiga Kogen
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
🎿 Equipment Rental
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥4,000 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥4,000 yen/day
💳 Payment Methods
Credit cards accepted at ticket counters and restaurants.
Cash preferred at some smaller vendors
🌨️ Best Time to Visit
January to February for the best powder conditions.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
Terrain
Course Map
Course Map
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
40%Intermediate
40%Advanced
20%Grooming Status
Groomed
70%Non-groomed
30%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
3
unitsLifts
25
unitsCourses
35
coursesLongest Run
6.0km
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
40%Intermediate
40%Advanced
20%Grooming Status
Groomed
70%Non-groomed
30%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Available
Resort Statistics
3
Gondola
25
Lifts
35
Courses
6.0km
Longest Run
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about skiing at Shiga Kogen Central Area
Why ski the Central Area?
The Central Area is the heart of Shiga Kogen’s vast network, with many interlinked lifts and varied groomers for long connected laps.
How do I get there from Tokyo?
Tokyo → Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano → express bus to Shiga Kogen, then local shuttles within the Central Area.
Best time to visit?
January–March for cold, fast groomers; early/late season may still run thanks to altitude.
Are English lessons available?
Yes—English-capable lessons can be arranged through area schools and hotels.
What facilities are available?
Multiple base points with rentals, dining, lockers, and hotel access; lift tickets often cover broader Shiga Kogen zones.
For more general questions (about money, culture, transport, etc.), please see our main Japan Skiing FAQ page.
View Main FAQExplore More
Explore Shiga Kogen Area
Discover all ski resorts in Shiga Kogen and compare facilities, terrain, and access options.
View Area GuidePlanning Your Trip
Get expert tips for day trips, family-friendly options, and finding the best powder snow.
About Tak
I'm a Tokyo-based snowboarder with more than 20 years on the slopes. As a father of two, I enjoy riding natural terrain and side hits, and I'm passionate about helping international visitors discover the best of Japan's ski resorts. Off the slopes, I love family time, dogs, and soaking in Japanese onsen.