Explore the Dynamic Skiing Experience at Shiga Kogen Ski Resort in Nagano

The central area of Shiga Kogen Ski Resort in Nagano offers a complex network of trails, creating a diverse skiing experience. It's best enjoyed with a relaxed attitude, akin to a leisurely city stroll, exploring the 13 ski areas at your own pace. Some routes require removing your skis to cross roads or climb hills, while others involve mingling with groups of students at the lifts, evoking nostalgia for youthful days. There are also secluded spots like Nishidateyama, Higashidateyama, Happo Bunadaira, and Sun Valley, perfect for a private retreat. The site of Japan's first ski lift (Maruike Ski Area A Course) invites you to reminisce about the past. The central area offers various modes of travel, including skiing, walking, open chairlifts, high-speed windproof chairlifts, old-fashioned small gondolas, and new triple gondolas. For me, it's not just a ski resort but a small snow world, diverse and waiting to be explored. Snow conditions are excellent, with frequent snowfall, a significant improvement from two years ago. This season, Japan is blessed with great snow, so feel free to dive in! The central area boasts numerous unique trails, ideal for those who enjoy experiential skiing. Some personal favorites include the winding forest path in Higashidateyama, which feels like entering a snowy fairy tale, and the solitary wide slope at Happo Bunadaira, a picturesque spot. The long, fast descent from the top of Nishidateyama 1 and 2 lifts is often deserted. The short but cozy trail at Tanne no Mori Okoshiyo, and the challenging A+Shirokuma course at Sun Valley, which remains in excellent condition throughout the day, are also noteworthy. The large slope at Ichinose Diamond is perfect for powder skiing this season, though it's a bit short. Overall, the central area offers a dense array of trail options, ensuring most visitors will find their preferred way to enjoy skiing. Recently, it seems to be a peak period for school group activities in Japan. Areas like Ichinose Yama no Kami, Ichinose Family, Terakoya, Tanne no Mori Okoshiyo, Takamagahara Mammoth, Hasuike, and Maruike are bustling with students. While lift queues are manageable, with guides often allowing tourists to queue ahead, some trails become crowded, resembling an obstacle course, which might be challenging for beginners. In summary, my previous visit was guided by a local expert, leaving me a bit overwhelmed. This time, I leisurely explored the central area's diverse scenery, growing to like, even love, this region. #SkiResort #Skiing #SkiingInJapan #Nagano #ShigaKogen #ShigaKogenCentralArea