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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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Shiga Kogen Yokoteyama is Japan’s highest ski area at over 2,300m, offering one of the country’s longest seasons with reliable snow and gentle, beginner-friendly pistes. Famous for its summit café above the clouds and stunning alpine views, it’s a scenic, family-friendly base on Shiga Kogen’s eastern edge.
Last Updated: October 9, 2025 by Tak
Legendary Japanese powder
Diverse slopes & terrain
Perfect for all ages
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Shiga Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort is Japan’s highest-altitude ski area, with lifts reaching over 2,300 meters. Thanks to this elevation, it offers one of the longest operating seasons in the country, often from late November into May, with consistently high-quality snow. Wide, gentle pistes make it beginner-friendly, while the panoramic summit views of the Northern Alps and Mt. Asama are a highlight for all visitors. At the top, the famous summit café—Japan’s highest—provides a unique spot to relax above the clouds. Its location on the eastern edge of Shiga Kogen makes Yokoteyama a scenic and family-friendly destination as well as an excellent base for exploring other Shiga Kogen areas.
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→Yokoteyama (3hr30min)
1,200 spaces
Tokyo Station → Nagano Station (~1h20–1h30) → Nagaden express bus (~1h35–1h50, seasonal variations) → Yokoteyama/Shibutoge
Ski Lesson : from 4,000 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 4,000 yen
Tokyo Station → Nagano Station (~1h20–1h30) → Nagaden express bus (~1h35–1h50, seasonal variations) → Yokoteyama/Shibutoge
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥4,500 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥7,800 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 Yokoteyama Ski Resort
Essential items include warm clothing, waterproof gear, gloves, goggles, and sunscreen. Most resorts offer equipment rental, but bringing your own gear is also an option.
Most major ski resorts in Japan have English-speaking staff, especially at information desks, rental shops, and ski schools. However, learning basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience.
The best time is typically from late December to early March, with January and February offering the best snow conditions. March provides longer daylight hours and milder weather.
Most resorts are accessible by train and bus from major cities like Tokyo. The Japan Rail Pass can be very useful for getting around, and many resorts offer shuttle services from nearby stations.
Options range from luxury hotels to traditional ryokans and budget-friendly hostels. Many resorts offer ski-in/ski-out accommodation, while others are located in nearby towns with shuttle services.
For more general questions (about money, culture, transport, etc.), please see our main Japan Skiing FAQ page.
View Main FAQI'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.