Tanne no mori Okojo

Tanne no mori Okojo is excellent for what it is - a single, pristine 500-meter groomed run through beautiful pine and white birch forest at 1,800 meters. The snow quality rivals popular Shiga Kogen areas like Terakoya, and you'll have the slope almost entirely to yourself. It's not a full ski resort experience, but rather a peaceful forest run perfect for perfecting technique or enjoying meditative skiing.

Yes - this is beginner-intermediate terrain at its purest, with one wide, forgiving groomed course that drops just 155 vertical meters. Families with young kids will love the calm, non-threatening environment that builds confidence without pressure from crowds or steep slopes. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for anyone who wants to practice without dodging other skiers or feeling intimidated.

Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano Station (about 1.5 hours), then catch the Nagaden express bus to Shiga Kogen Ichinose area (1.5 hours). Total journey is around 3 hours. From Ichinose, Tanne no mori Okojo is easily accessible within the greater Shiga Kogen ski area.

Mid-January to mid-February offers the best powder conditions at this elevation, with the forest providing natural wind protection that keeps snow quality excellent. Weekdays are ideal for maximum solitude, though even weekends rarely see significant crowds at this tucked-away slope. The forest setting maintains good conditions even when weather turns ugly at more exposed areas.

English support is limited - basic signs and ticket counters may have minimal English, but don't expect much beyond that. This is a simple, locals-oriented slope with minimal infrastructure and services. Come prepared with basic Japanese phrases or translation apps for smoother interactions.

Rarely crowded even on weekends - this is Shiga Kogen's secret practice slope that most visitors overlook. Peak usage is around 10am-2pm, but you'll typically share the slope with just a handful of other skiers. While everyone else battles lift lines at the main Shiga Kogen areas, you're carving perfect turns in complete solitude.

Complete solitude in a snow globe setting - while everyone battles lift lines at the main Shiga Kogen areas, you're carving perfect forest turns with maybe a handful of other skiers for company. The pristine pine and white birch forest creates a peaceful, almost meditative skiing experience at 1,800 meters. It's quality over quantity - one perfect run that feels like skiing in your own private reserve.

Don't expect a full ski area experience - this is literally just one lift and one 500-meter slope with no amenities or services on-site. Bring your own snacks and water, or plan to head back to Ichinose area for food and facilities. Use it as your warm-up spot before hitting bigger Shiga Kogen areas, or as a zen retreat when you want perfect technique practice without distractions.