Shiga Kogen
Winter on the slopes, summer in the hills. That’s the motto of Shiga Highland, located in northeastern Nagano Prefecture, japan. Part of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, Shiga Highland is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its vast ski resorts and stunning alpine landscapes, it offers a unique experience for both winter and summer activities.
Shiga Highland is home to one of Japan’s largest ski resorts, the Shiga Kogen Ski Area. This mammoth ski area gained international recognition when it hosted several events during the 1998 Winter Olympics, including downhill skiing and snowboarding competitions. With its 18 resorts, nearly 50 lifts, and over 80 kilometers of trails, Shiga Kogen is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, there are slopes for every level. The area is known for its excellent powder snow, making it a favorite destination for snow lovers.
But Shiga Highland is not just about skiing and snowboarding. When the snow melts, the area transforms into a hiking paradise. With its diverse flora and fauna, Shiga Highland offers a unique opportunity to explore the alpine ecosystem. The Higashi-Tateyama Botanical Alpine Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers. Here, you can stroll through fields of alpine flowers and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The garden is especially beautiful in summer when the highland ecology bursts into bloom.
For those who love hiking, Shiga Highland has plenty to offer. With multiple peaks over 2,000 meters high, there are numerous hiking trails to choose from. From easy boardwalk strolls through marshland to more strenuous treks through the inner peaks, there is something for everyone. The highest peak in the park is Mt. Yokote, standing at 2,307 meters. From its observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Northern Alps. The fall season is particularly stunning, as the hills transform into a fiery display of red and gold.
Aside from skiing and hiking, there are other activities to enjoy in Shiga Highland. Fishing, boating, and cycling are popular options for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is also known for its hot springs, with Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen located nearby. These traditional Japanese hot spring towns offer a relaxing retreat after a day of outdoor activities. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some snow monkeys in the nearby Snow Monkey Park at Jigokudani.
Getting to Shiga Highland is relatively easy. In winter, the Nagano Snow Shuttle directly connects Tokyo and its airports to the Shiga Kogen Ski Area. For summer exploration, renting a car is highly recommended. Alternatively, you can take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano City, which takes around an hour and 30 minutes. From Nagano City, a 40-minute ride on the Nagano Dentetsu Line will bring you to Yudanaka Station. From there, it’s another hour by bus to Shiga Highland.
Shiga Highland is one of Japan’s 10 UNESCO biosphere reserves. The area is so large that it would take around two days to cover all of it. Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or a nature lover, Shiga Highland offers a unique experience that showcases the beauty of Japan’s alpine landscapes.
In conclusion, Shiga Highland in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, is a destination that offers something for everyone. From its massive ski resorts to its stunning alpine landscapes, there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in winter or exploring the hills in summer, Shiga Highland is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Its diverse flora and fauna, breathtaking views, and hot springs make it a perfect destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience. So why not plan your next adventure to Shiga Highland and discover the beauty of Japan’s winter wonderland and summer paradise?
Address And Maps Location:
Shiomotakai-gun, Nagano-ken
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