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Discover Japan's best ski resorts with legendary powder snow, world-class facilities, and authentic Japanese culture.
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Yakebitaiyama in Shiga Kogen is a premier area with 18 trails, long groomers, night skiing, and direct ski-in/ski-out access from the Prince Hotel. With World Cup pedigree, tree runs, and an all-mountain pass linking nearby zones, it’s perfect for strong intermediates, advanced riders, and families alike.
Last Updated: November 24, 2025 by Tak
Reserve your ski experience
Legendary Japanese powder
Diverse slopes & terrain
Perfect for all ages
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Yakebitaiyama (Shiga Kogen) is one of the largest single ski areas in the region, featuring 2 gondolas + 3 chairlifts and 18 trails. Expect reliable snow and plenty of wide, well-groomed pistes with a longest run of about 2.5 km. The Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel (East/South/West) sits right on the base for true ski-in/ski-out convenience—South even loads straight onto a gondola. You can also squeeze in extra laps with night skiing on the East Course (18:00–20:00). With a World Cup pedigree and some sanctioned tree-run options alongside off-piste zones, Yakebi works brilliantly for strong intermediates and advanced riders while still welcoming families who love scenic cruising. It’s an ideal hub for multi-day exploring of neighboring Ichinose and Okushiga on the all-mountain pass.
World-famous "Japow"
Experience the incredibly light, dry powder snow that Japan is famous for worldwide, with consistent snowfall throughout the season.
All skill levels welcome
From gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs, there's something for every skier and snowboarder.
Convenient transportation
Well-connected by efficient public transport including bullet trains, making it easy to reach from major cities.
Perfect for all ages
Safe and enjoyable environment for families with dedicated beginner areas and professional instruction.
December 20 - March 31
Weather dependent
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Nagano IC→Route19→Shiga Kogen→Yakibitaiyama (3hr30min)
1,500 spaces
Tokyo Station→Nagano Station(1hr20min)→Bus(1hr20min)→Shiga Kogen→Yakibitaiyama
Ski Lesson : from 4,200 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 4,200 yen
Tokyo Station→Nagano Station(1hr20min)→Bus(1hr20min)→Shiga Kogen→Yakibitaiyama
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥4,800 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥4,800 yen/day
Credit cards accepted at ticket counters and restaurants.
Cash preferred at some smaller vendors
January to February for the best powder conditions.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends


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Everything you need to know about skiing at Shiga Kogen Yakibitaiyama Ski Resort
High-altitude, cold-snow resort within Shiga Kogen—long season, excellent groomers, and interlinked terrain.
Tokyo → Nagano (Shinkansen) → express bus to Shiga Kogen → local shuttle to Yakibitaiyama.
January–March for reliable snow; shoulder months can still ski thanks to altitude.
English lessons can be arranged via Shiga Kogen providers or hotel desks.
Rentals, hotel dining, lockers; lift access to broader Shiga network on applicable passes.
For more general questions (about money, culture, transport, etc.), please see our main Japan Skiing FAQ page.
View Main FAQDiscover all ski resorts in Shiga Kogen and compare facilities, terrain, and access options.
View Area GuideGet expert tips for day trips, family-friendly options, and finding the best powder snow.

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.