A High-Elevation Resort in the Mountains
The ski area spreads across the northeastern slopes of Mount Yakebitai at the far end of the Ichinose district. With elevations ranging from approximately 1,470 to 2,000 meters, the resort benefits from a long winter season and high-quality snow.
Okushiga Kogen is particularly known for its resort atmosphere. Many of the facilities are operated by Okushiga Kogen Resort, while visitors who are not staying at the resort’s accommodations are also welcome to enjoy the facilities.
Since its opening, the resort has deliberately limited the number of overnight guests in order to preserve a peaceful environment. This has helped strengthen its character as a destination for longer, more relaxed stays rather than a busy day-trip ski resort.
Two Areas of Okushiga Kogen
Okushiga Area
The Okushiga Area forms the main center of the resort. Hotels and major facilities are concentrated here, including accommodations, restaurants, and a kids’ park.
Obora Area
The Obora Area lies to the south, centered around the gondola station. Facilities include Sports Heim Okushiga, accommodation operated by Sugiyama Ski School, and the restaurant Saint Christophe. The facilities are conveniently located within about a one-minute walk of one another.
From an Exclusive Resort to a Connected Ski Area
When Okushiga Kogen first opened, it operated independently from the other ski areas around Ichinose. Centered around Okushiga Kogen Hotel, it became known as a refined mountain resort with a peaceful atmosphere.
Today, visitors can travel between Okushiga Kogen and the neighboring Yakebitaiyama Ski Area, making the overall ski experience more convenient. Despite this connection, Okushiga has retained its quiet atmosphere and sophisticated resort character.
Lifts, Gondola, and Ski Runs
The resort has six lifts, including one gondola, serving a total of eight ski runs. The courses are arranged along the mountain ridges, providing open views and long descents.
One of the most popular runs is the Downhill Course. Depending on the section, the course stretches approximately 2,200 to 3,000 meters, allowing skiers to make a long descent from the upper mountain. The terrain is mainly suited to intermediate and advanced skiers.
The resort’s high elevation also contributes to its long winter season. The first snow is normally observed around late October, while the ski season generally begins in early December. Operations usually continue through Golden Week in early May, although some lifts may stop operating on weekdays from early April onward.
Open Mountain Views and High-Altitude Snow
Because many of the courses follow the ridgelines, the ski area offers relatively open views rather than being completely enclosed by forest. On clear days, skiers can see the impressive form of Mount Ura-Iwasuge, 2,341 meters high, the highest peak in the Shiga Kogen area.
The terrain includes gentle slopes for beginners as well as steeper courses for experienced skiers. Several steep runs also have bypass routes, making it possible for visitors of different ability levels to enjoy the mountain together.
Beginner-Friendly Courses
First Slope
The First Slope is approximately 900 meters long, with an average gradient of 6 degrees and a maximum of 8 degrees. Its broad, gentle terrain is suitable for families and beginners, and it is also used for pole training.
First Kids Forest Course
The First Kids Forest Course is about 900 meters long and winds through the forest, providing a pleasant environment for younger skiers and families.
Kids Park
The Kids Park has a conveyor-belt lift that makes it easier for children to move uphill. Sugiyama Ski School also offers lessons for children, making this an accessible area for families learning to ski.
Second Forest Course
The Second Forest Course is approximately 630 meters long, with an average gradient of 10 degrees and a maximum of 17 degrees. The forest setting creates a relaxing skiing experience, and the course can also be used as a bypass route.
Fourth Slope
The Fourth Slope is about 400 meters long, with an average gradient of 12 degrees and a maximum of 16 degrees. Designed for beginner to intermediate skiers, it is also used for pole practice and provides a connection toward the Yakebitaiyama area.
Sixth Slope
Located in the Obora Area, the Sixth Slope is approximately 700 meters long, with an average gradient of 8 degrees and a maximum of 9 degrees. Its quiet, gentle terrain is particularly suitable for beginners and is frequently used for ski school lessons.
Hillside Course
The Hillside Course is approximately 820 meters long, with an average gradient of 10 degrees and a maximum of 17 degrees. It provides a bypass around the steeper Downhill Course and includes some ungroomed sections for those looking for a more natural snow experience.
Intermediate Courses
Third Slope
The Third Slope is approximately 600 meters long, with an average gradient of 13 degrees and a maximum of 16 degrees. Although it is suitable for beginners with sufficient confidence, intermediate skiers can also enjoy its terrain.
A viewing area and a space for playing with snow provide additional attractions along the course, making it suitable for families and mixed-ability groups.
Downhill Course
The Downhill Course is one of Okushiga Kogen’s signature runs. Stretching approximately 2,200 to 3,000 meters depending on the route, it allows skiers to descend from near the summit in one long run.
With an average gradient of approximately 19 degrees and a maximum of 28 degrees, it is mainly aimed at intermediate to advanced skiers. Beginners can avoid the steeper sections by taking the Hillside Course.
Advanced Skiing
Second Expert Course
The Second Expert Course is approximately 630 meters long, with an average gradient of 23 degrees and a maximum of 30 degrees. It is one of the resort’s popular advanced runs and offers challenging terrain for experienced skiers.
The course is maintained using snow grooming equipment and is also covered by a live camera. Skiers who do not want to enter the steep section immediately can begin via the Second Forest Course and use it as a gentler approach.
Lift Passes and Exploring Shiga Kogen
Visitors can choose from Shiga Kogen common lift passes, multi-ride tickets, and lift passes specific to Okushiga Kogen. The wider Shiga Kogen area is connected by shuttle buses, allowing visitors to travel toward other ski areas such as Kumanoyu and Yokoteyama.
This makes Okushiga Kogen a convenient base for travelers who want both the peaceful atmosphere of a secluded mountain resort and access to the extensive winter recreation available throughout Shiga Kogen.
A Quiet Mountain Resort for Every Level
Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort combines high-quality mountain snow, diverse terrain, beautiful forests, and a peaceful resort atmosphere.
Beginners can enjoy broad, gentle slopes and children’s facilities, while intermediate and advanced skiers can challenge themselves on long descents and steeper expert terrain. The open ridge-top courses also provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Beyond skiing, the area’s highland environment makes Okushiga Kogen an appealing destination throughout the year. Whether visiting for winter sports, a peaceful mountain retreat, hiking, or the refreshing summer climate, travelers can experience a quieter and more refined side of the Shiga Kogen mountains.