What is special about Yokoteyama?

Yokoteyama is one of Japan’s highest lift-access areas, known for cold, dry snow and long operating seasons.

How to reach Yokoteyama from Tokyo?

Tokyo → Nagano (Shinkansen) → express bus to Shiga Kogen, then shuttle to Yokoteyama.

Best season to visit?

Midwinter (Jan–Feb) for the driest snow; spring skiing often continues later than surrounding areas.

Do they offer English lessons?

Limited on-mountain instruction—arrange English lessons via regional schools or hotels.

What facilities are at the base?

Base amenities include rentals, eateries, lockers; famous summit café views on bluebird days.

Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort

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: February 4, 2026 by Tak

Currently Open

125cm

Base Depth

0cm

Fresh Snow

-2°C

Temperature

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Powder Quality

8.0

Legendary Japanese powder

Terrain Variety

7.0

Diverse slopes & terrain

Family Friendly

7.0

Perfect for all ages

Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort opened on November 20th

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.

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.

Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Nagano IC→Route19→Shiga Kogen→Yokoteyama (3hr30min)

Tokyo Station → Nagano Station (~1h20–1h30) → Nagaden express bus (~1h35–1h50, seasonal variations) → Yokoteyama/Shibutoge

Beginner

40%

Intermediate

45%

Advanced

15%

Groomed

85%

Non-groomed

15%

Beginner

40%

Intermediate

45%

Advanced

15%

Groomed

85%

Non-groomed

15%

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Ski Areas

Japow Guides

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Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort

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