ENJOY THE CENTRAL AREA FROM THE GATEWAY TO SHIGA KOGEN —YAMA NO EKI
The gateway to the central Shiga Kogen area is “Yama no Eki,” a resort centre that opened its doors in the 2020-21 season. This hub features a bus station and a free car park with a 500-car capacity, making it a great place to set off into the main area. It also houses a couple of restaurants, a souvenir shop, a convenience store, an information centre, a ticket booth, gear-rental facilities, locker rooms, and changing rooms to allow visitors to head straight onto the slopes via gondola from here.
Start off at the Giant area which allows for smooth access to the main area connecting other ski areas. This area is a very steep course that can be challenging for even advanced skiers and snowboarders, and is known as one of the most difficult runs in Shiga Kogen. Hopping onto a lift from the Giant area will take you over to Higashidate, which boasts the longest course in the vicinity that’s variety packed, featuring steep sections, flat sections, and even moguls. There’s also easy access to the famed central courses of Ichinose and Takamagahara.
Villa Alpen
The closest ski area to the Snow Monkey Park
Only 15 seconds to the ski lift with ”ski-in, ski-out” facilities, a great bar, delicious homemade meals, and gear rental at a small and rustic family-run lodge. Long-stay visitors (5-21 nights with 2 meals) are also welcome! Villa Alpen lodge uses thermal hot spring energy and a heat pump for heating and hot water, without relying on fossil fuels, so that people can enjoy the powdery snow a Shiga Kogen for generations to come.
“Villa Alpen.” The fanbase for his hotel continues to grow as it prioritises offering guests a fulfilling stay with comfort through small touches such as the bar with a fireplace, as well as early check-in and late check-out options. The hotels is popular, has guests that continue to return, and is owned by former top skiers with Olympic and World Cup experience. Perhaps the personable owners are one of the reasons people keep coming back for future stays.
Villa Alpen
“Ski-in, Ski-Out” Captain, Hiroko, and Ken’s Lodge
■TEL: 81+269-34-2731
■Email: info@villa-alpen.com
■Web: villa-alpen.com
