OpeningFeatured
Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort opened on November 20th
Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort opened on November 20th
yokoteyama
Read moreLoading resorts...
Please wait while we prepare the content
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: November 24, 2025 by Tak
Currently Closed
0cm
Base Depth
0cm
Fresh Snow
1°C
Temperature
Book Best Deal
Reserve your ski experience
Powder Quality
8.0
Legendary Japanese powder
Terrain Variety
7.0
Diverse slopes & terrain
Family Friendly
7.0
Perfect for all ages
Latest News from Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort
About the Resort
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.
Why You'll Love Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort
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)7,000 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Child)3,700 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Senior)6,000 yen
Access Information
Location
By Car
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Nagano IC→Route19→Shiga Kogen→Yokoteyama (3hr30min)
Parking
1,200 spaces
By Train
Tokyo Station → Nagano Station (~1h20–1h30) → Nagaden express bus (~1h35–1h50, seasonal variations) → Yokoteyama/Shibutoge
Lessons
Lesson in Japanese
Ski Lesson : from 4,000 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 4,000 yen
Travel Tips
🚌 Getting There
Tokyo Station → Nagano Station (~1h20–1h30) → Nagaden express bus (~1h35–1h50, seasonal variations) → Yokoteyama/Shibutoge
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
🎿 Equipment Rental
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥4,500 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥7,800 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
45%Advanced
15%Grooming Status
Groomed
85%Non-groomed
15%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Not Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
0
unitsLifts
10
unitsCourses
22
coursesLongest Run
4.0km
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
40%Intermediate
45%Advanced
15%Grooming Status
Groomed
85%Non-groomed
15%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Not Available
Resort Statistics
0
Gondola
10
Lifts
22
Courses
4.0km
Longest Run
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about skiing at Shiga-Kogen Yokoteyama Ski Resort
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.
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.