Shiga Kogen Higashitateyama

The 3.5km longest run gives you a proper top-to-bottom descent, and at this altitude, the snow quality is consistently excellent through the season. It's part of the massive 18-area Shiga Kogen network, so you're not stuck on one mountain - but honestly, the terrain here holds its own without needing the interconnects. Wide-open slopes that let you really open it up, plus the elevation means you're skiing above the cloud line on those magical bluebird days.

This is where Japanese skiing families come to actually ski instead of standing in lift lines. Weekdays feel like you have the mountain to yourself, and even weekends maintain that unhurried, local feel. Don't expect English menus or international crowds - this is authentically Japanese, which means better prices, genuine hospitality, and the kind of peaceful mountain experience that's getting harder to find.

"Big ski resort and plentiful slope"

— Google Review

• ✓Intermediate skiers who want to progress without constantly dodging beginners or getting intimidated by expert crowds
• ✓Families seeking authentic Japanese ski culture without the tourist markup - kids will love the wide, gentle slopes
• ✓Powder hunters who've realized that altitude beats hype when it comes to consistent snow quality

• ✗You need English support beyond basic pointing and gesturing - this is proper local Japan
• ✗You're chasing challenging expert terrain - the steeps here are fun but not heart-stopping
• ✗You want buzzing apres-ski scenes - the mountain goes quiet after the lifts stop

January through February offers the deepest, driest powder, with the high elevation preserving quality even during warm spells. Late season through April is excellent for spring skiing with fewer crowds, and the long season here means good coverage when other resorts are closing.

1. Expecting widespread English support - bring translation apps and patience for the language barrier
2. Not booking accommodation well in advance during peak season - options fill up quickly in the Shiga Kogen area
3. Underestimating the high-altitude sun exposure - bring serious sunscreen and eye protection

1. Hit the slopes early in the day when the grooming is fresh - the wide runs here are perfect for carving practice before they get choppy
2. Bring cash and basic Japanese phrases - card readers are hit-or-miss and English is limited, but the experience is worth the effort
3. Don't overlook late season skiing here - April and sometimes May offer spring conditions that beat most resorts' peak winter