Spring
Spring in Shiga Kogen is a delightful season where you can fully enjoy the beautiful natural environment, making it an attractive time for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It's a perfect time to refresh yourself amidst the fresh greenery and enjoy the stunning landscapes
Summer
Summer in Shiga Kogen is particularly cool and refreshing, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beauty of nature and outdoor activities.
Autumn
The beautiful autumn foliage and cool climate are particularly charming.
Winter
The ski area at 2307m, Japan's highest point. A world of frost-covered trees and powder snow.
spring

Spring in Shiga Kogen is a season where you can fully enjoy the beautiful natural environment, making it an attractive time for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It's a perfect time to refresh yourself amidst the fresh greenery and enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Spring Skiing: Yokoze Yama Ski Resort is open for skiing until around Golden Week every year.

Mountaineering and Hiking: There are many hiking trails around Shiga Kogen where you can enjoy the expansive views of fresh greenery.

Hot Springs: There are numerous hot spring resorts scattered around Shiga Kogen, allowing you to relax in the hot springs while enjoying the fresh greenery of spring.

Nature and Outdoor Activities: Spring in Shiga Kogen is a time when nature comes alive, with wildlife becoming more active. You can enjoy birdwatching and observing wild animals.

Spring Events: Local festivals and events are also held in spring, providing opportunities to experience local culture and traditions. Spring in Shiga Kogen is a season where you can fully enjoy the beautiful natural environment, making it an attractive time for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It’s a perfect time to refresh yourself amidst the fresh greenery and enjoy the stunning landscapes.

summer

Shiga Kogen is a place abundant with the beauty of nature and outdoor activities, making it ideal for a summer visit. You can enjoy the scenery and partake in various activities.

Beautiful Natural Landscapes: Shiga Kogen boasts stunning natural landscapes, especially during the summer when the lush greenery is at its peak. You can enjoy walks and hikes surrounded by forests, rivers, and lakes. Particularly, the natural environment around Jigokudani Onsen is worth a visit.

Waterfront Enjoyment: Shiga Kogen is home to many ponds, with picturesque views of trees and mountains reflected on the water, making it a popular spot for photographers and hikers.

Hiking and Trekking: Summer is the perfect season for hiking and trekking, with numerous trails available. One highly recommended option is the panoramic view from the summit of Mt. Yokoze at 2307 meters above sea level. From there, you can overlook Shiga Kogen and even catch a glimpse of the Japan Alps.

Hot Springs: Shiga Kogen boasts several hot spring resorts where you can relax while enjoying the natural beauty. Kuma no Yu and Shiga Kogen Palace Hotel offer hot springs with flowing spring water directly from the source.

autumn

Autumn is also an attractive tourist season in Shiga Kogen. During autumn, the foliage is beautiful, and various activities can be enjoyed.

Leaf Peeping: Autumn brings vibrant foliage to Shiga Kogen, especially breathtaking when viewed from high-altitude spots. Take in the beauty of the autumn leaves reflecting on the ponds scattered throughout Shiga Kogen while enjoying walks and hikes.

Hot Spring Tours: Enjoying the hot springs in Shiga Kogen during autumn is highly recommended for warming up your body. With various hot spring resorts like Yudanaka Onsen, Jigokudani Onsen, and Yumachi Onsen, you can simultaneously enjoy the autumn foliage and the soothing hot springs.

Dining: Autumn is the season for delicious ingredients. In the Shiga Kogen area, you can indulge in fresh mountain vegetables, mushrooms, and local cuisine. Try traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Stargazing: As the temperature drops at night, and the air becomes clear, take the opportunity to gaze at the unobstructed night sky filled with stars

winter

Japan's premier alpine skiing resort, renowned for its high elevation, making it one of the earliest areas to open for skiing. The Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort typically opens in early November and remains operational until Golden Week in May, offering an extensive skiing season.

Skiing and Snowboarding: Shiga Kogen is renowned as a mecca for skiing and snowboarding, boasting numerous ski resorts. Notable resorts include Shiga Kogen Ichinose Ski Resort and Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort. With excellent snow conditions, you can enjoy exhilarating runs down the slopes.

Ski Courses: Shiga Kogen offers a wide range of ski areas suitable for skiers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The off-piste courses in the Shibu Pass area are easily accessible and perfect for experiencing fresh powder.

Ice Trees: You can witness authentic ice trees in the Kanto and Chubu regions. In recent years, there has been a surge in popularity among tourists and skiers from Europe, making it a sought-after winter vacation destination.

Activities: Various optional tours are available almost every day. The Snow Monster Tour allows you to stroll through the ice-covered forest at night without skiing. You can also enjoy tours on snowmobiles to immerse yourself in the winter scenery effortlessly.