EXPERIENCE SHIGAKOGEN
Sachinoyu Hotel is situated in Shiga Kogen, just a 70-minute drive from Nagano Station. Surrounded by stunning mountains reaching heights of 2,000 meters, the area boasts numerous lakes and wetlands, including Onuma Pond and Lotus Pond.
Renowned as one of Japan's premier ski resorts, Shiga Kogen attracts visitors for skiing and snowboarding in winter, while offering a plethora of summer activities such as firefly viewing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), canyoning, and hiking.
For those traveling from the Kusatsu/Karuizawa area, take the scenic route along the Shiga-Kusatsu Road for a picturesque journey.
EXPERIENCE SHIGAKOGEN
Renowned for its premium JAPOW (Japanese powder snow), Shiga Kogen stands out as one of Japan's top-tier ski resorts. The site of the 1998 Nagano Olympics, it now holds UNESCO Eco Park certification, cementing its status as a prime tourist spot in Japan, drawing over 2 million visitors annually. Beyond its esteemed ski season, Shiga Kogen offers a bounty of natural wonders to enjoy throughout the year.
activities
Shiga Kogen offers many activities that you can enjoy with your family and friends, such as SUP, canyoning, hiking, and touring. From skiing at world-famous ski resorts to hiking in beautiful mountains, you'll be spoiled for choice. At Sachinoyu Hotel, we've curated a straightforward guide to enhance your travel experience. Should you have any inquiries about activities, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
ACCESS
From Sachinoyu Hotel, you can easily access tourist spots in Shiga Kogen, such as Snow Monkey (Jigokudani Monkey Park) and Shibu Onsen, famously depicted in Spirited Away. In winter, a complimentary shuttle bus operates from the Shiga Kogen bus stop. Additionally, we offer transportation to nearby ski resorts upon request at the front desk.
Workation
PV DEAI SHIGAKOGEN
「SIGAKOGEN MOUNTAIN DISCOVERY」
your shigakogen adventure
At Shiga Kogen, you can experience a variety of activities depending on the season.
Winter
Ski・Snowboard
Shigakogen has some of the highest quality JAPOW (Japanese Powder) in the Honshu area and hosts one of the top three largest ski resorts in all of Japan. The hotel is perfectly located to make the best use of your stay and maximize your time in the mountains. Local ski resorts have a variety of ski hills from beginner to diamond. Click on the following link to get a complete list of ski resorts in the area.
Downhill Ski tour
Wanting to improve your skiing skills? Participate in a six-hour ski tour led by the coach of the Japanese National Ski Team while admiring the beauty of the Shigakogen landscape. Tours are provided through Shib’s Tours. Click on the link below to download a brochure with more information.
Snow shoe Tour
For those who prefer to experience the Shiga Kogen outdoors at a slower pace, local snow shoe tours will take you through the beautiful landscape. No previous experience is required and can easily be tailored to fit your schedule. Contact the hotel for more information.
Snow Monsters Tour
Experience the awe-inspiring snow monsters atop Mt. Yokote, where towering trees transformed by snow take on monstrous forms. Delight in the enigmatic and dynamic icy landscapes of Shibu Pass and Mt. Yokote as you embark on a thrilling snowmobile adventure.
Snow monkey park
The Snow Monkey Park located in Yokoyu River Valley is home to one of the most unique experiences near Shiga Kogen. Due to the presence of natural hot springs, Japanese macaque (snow monkeys) have made this their habitat and enjoy bathing in warm water. Located close to the hotel, you can have the experience of viewing these monkeys while relaxing in the natural hot springs. Click the link below to learn more!
春（Spring）
Root-curved bamboo
The root-curved Chishimazasa bamboo, known for its unique shape, is only available for a brief period in June. Some people arrive early in the morning to harvest these tender bamboo shoots. They can be enjoyed grilled or used to enrich miso soup simmered with canned mackerel. During this season, Sachinoyu Hotel offers Nemagaritake as a highlight on the meal menu.
Japanese Azalea
Starting from late May, Shiga Kogen becomes the prime destination to witness the stunning Rengetsu azaleas in full bloom. The vibrant red blossoms adorning the verdant meadows create a breathtaking spectacle. Each year, numerous flowers bloom around Sachinoyu Hotel enhancing the beauty of the surroundings.
夏（Summer）
Stand-up paddle boarding
Experience Shigakogen from the water on a half-day standup paddle board (SUP) tour hosted by Mountain Discovery. Beginners are welcome and all equipment is included. Click the link below to access Mountain Discovery’s website.
fireflies
At their peak, during the summer months from mid-July to mid-August, come join us to experience the one-of-a-kind fireflies found in Shiga Kogen. The Genji firefly is the largest firefly that lives only in Japan and is only able to exist at our high altitude due to the hot spring environment. Shiga Kogen is now considered a monument due to the large existence of these fireflies. You do not want to miss this experience!
Hiking areas and summer lift
The rugged landscape of Shigakogen provides many mountain lakes and streams for hiking during the summer months. For more information about hiking trails ask a hotel staff member or visit the Shigakogen Tourism Association website linked below.
Canyoning
Embark on an exhilarating adventure just steps away from our hotel with thrilling canyoning excursions. Traverse rugged landscapes, navigate through cascading waterfalls, and plunge into natural pools, all while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature. Perfect for adrenaline enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, canyoning offers an unforgettable experience right at our doorstep.
Road trip
Discover scenic routes, charming towns, and hidden gems as you journey through breathtaking landscapes. Whether you crave the thrill of winding mountain roads or the serenity of coastal drives, our hotel serves as the perfect starting point for your next epic road trip experience.
秋（Autumn）
Autumn leaves
The autumn leaves season begins in Shiga Kogen around late September.
通年（All Season）
Barbecue
During the summer and winter season we can prepare a Japanese barbecue experience for you during your stay. With all you can eat pork, chicken, and fish with vegetables and fruit, this meal will leave you full while you spend time in the beautiful outdoors. Contact the hotel for price and reservation.
SkyTech Sport Ski Simulator
Used by Olympic athletes all over the world, the SkyTech Ski Simulator allows you to improve your skills regardless of the conditions outside. Sachinoyu is the first hotel in Skigakogen to have one of these simulators at the hotel. Ask a hotel staff member when you arrive for more information.
crumpet cafe - View from 2307m
Accessible in both winter and summer, The Crumpet Cafe is well-known in Shigakogen for breathtaking views while enjoying a warm and refreshing beverage. We highly recommend pairing this with a summer hiking adventure or ski day. Click the link below to be redirected to their Trip Advisor page.
