Yakebitaiyama Ski Area
Shiga Kogen's largest ski resort, offering diverse slopes, gondola access, and stunning summit views, especially at sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Deepest snow, fewer crowds
Yakebitaiyama Ski Area
Best Time
Deepest snow, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shiga Kogen's largest ski resort, offering diverse slopes, gondola access, and stunning summit views, especially at sunset.
"Experience breathtaking sunsets and expansive vistas from the mountain's peak."
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Utilize the large, free car parks at Yakebitaiyama; they are generally easier to find than at other Shiga Kogen resorts.
💰 Buy Passes Online
Save money by purchasing your ski pass from Skiosk or online before arriving.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Views
Summit
Experience breathtaking sunsets and expansive vistas from the mountain's peak. A truly unforgettable sight.
Extensive Ski Trails
Throughout the resort
With a variety of slopes for all skill levels, from beginner greens to challenging runs, there's something for everyone.
Seamless Gondola Access
Prince Hotel base
The gondola provides a swift and scenic ride from the Prince Hotel to the summit, offering easy access to upper slopes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Shiga Kogen's Largest Resort
Best Value Ski Passes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Utilize the large, free car parks at Yakebitaiyama; they are generally easier to find than at other Shiga Kogen resorts.
💰 Buy Passes Online
Save money by purchasing your ski pass from Skiosk or online before arriving.
🚠 Gondola to Summit
Take the gondola from the Prince Hotel for a quick ascent and stunning views.
❄️ Check Lift Status
Be aware that some lifts might be out of service, potentially limiting access to certain areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Utilize the large, free car parks at Yakebitaiyama; they are generally easier to find than at other Shiga Kogen resorts.
💰 Buy Passes Online
Save money by purchasing your ski pass from Skiosk or online before arriving.
🚠 Gondola to Summit
Take the gondola from the Prince Hotel for a quick ascent and stunning views.
❄️ Check Lift Status
Be aware that some lifts might be out of service, potentially limiting access to certain areas.
🌅 Sunset Views
The sunsets here are incredible; plan your day to catch this magical spectacle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yakebitaiyama Ski Area is praised for its size, extensive terrain, and beautiful summit views, especially during sunset. Visitors appreciate the convenient parking and the option to ski with connected resorts. However, some reviews mention inconsistent snow conditions and occasional lift closures, which can impact the overall experience.
"This is Yakibitaiyama Snow Resort located at the northern end of the Shiga Kogen Central Area and the largest in the Shiga Kogen. When I visit Shiga Kogen by car, I sometimes get confused about where to park. It's quite difficult to find the car park even trying to use Google Maps. Here the Yakibitaiyama has a couple of large car parks which are free and easy to use. I visited on 2nd April 2023, it was cold enough in the early morning and the snow surface was in good condition. People enjoy the cherry blossoms and warm spring at the foot of the mountains but we can enjoy skiing at here in Shiga Kogen!
Revisited on 24 Feb 2024, it was snowy last night and the snow covered the icy slopes, well it's a very difficult condition but enjoyed anyway. Also enjoyed other snow resorts connected by trails from Yakibitaiya."
Shige SHIMOYAMA
"Terrible. I've been anticipating to visit for 1 year and only 2 green slopes and chairlifts are open today. Snow is too icy, there is not intention to use the snow cannons. I paid for the full price for the ski pass but I can use less than half the chairlifts; 2 out the 15 ski slopes. Don't visit."
Brian Mak
"Great skiing - lots of snow; no lift lines; not many people on the trails
Only downside was the quad lift out of service so we couldn't ski the West side at all
Cheaper to buy tickets from Skiosk or online than on-site (which is a bit odd?)"
Peter Launders
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yakebitaiyama Ski Area is located in the Shiga Kogen Central Area. If driving, there are large, free car parks available. For public transport, you can access Shiga Kogen via bus from Nagano Station, and then transfer to local Shiga Kogen buses that serve the various resorts, including Yakebitaiyama.
Yes, Yakebitaiyama is known for having a couple of large, free car parks that are generally easy to use, which can be a relief compared to some other Shiga Kogen resorts.
Yes, Yakebitaiyama is well-connected to other snow resorts within Shiga Kogen, allowing for a comprehensive skiing experience across the area.
From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station (approx. 1.5-2 hours). From Nagano, you can catch a bus directly to Shiga Kogen (approx. 1.5 hours).
Yes, Shiga Kogen operates a network of shuttle buses that connect the various ski resorts, making it convenient to move between areas like Yakebitaiyama and Okushiga.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase ski passes on-site at the resort. However, travelers recommend buying tickets from Skiosk or online in advance, as it can be cheaper than purchasing directly at the resort.
Typically, Shiga Kogen offers various passes, including day passes and multi-day passes. Some passes may also be valid for the entire Shiga Kogen area, which includes Yakebitaiyama. Check the official website for current options.
Operating hours can vary depending on the season and snow conditions. Generally, ski resorts in Japan operate from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official Yakebitaiyama Ski Area website for the most up-to-date hours.
Refund policies for ski passes are usually strict. It's advisable to check the terms and conditions when purchasing your ticket, especially regarding weather-related cancellations or closures.
Many ski resorts offer discounted rates for children and seniors. Information on pricing and eligibility for these discounts should be available on the official Yakebitaiyama Ski Area website or at the ticket counter.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Yakebitaiyama Ski Area boasts a variety of slopes, including green runs for beginners, blue runs for intermediates, and more challenging terrain for advanced skiers. It's known as the largest resort in the Shiga Kogen Central Area.
Crowd levels can vary. While some reviews mention 'no lift lines' and 'not many people on the trails,' others have experienced icy conditions with limited open slopes. Visiting during off-peak times or weekdays is generally recommended for fewer crowds.
Snow quality can be inconsistent. While some visitors report 'lots of snow' and 'good condition,' others have encountered icy slopes, especially if snow cannons weren't used or after recent snowfall.
Yes, there are ski-in/ski-out hotel options available at the foot of the mountain, offering convenient access to the slopes.
The best times to ski are typically during the peak winter months for the most reliable snow. However, late February can offer deep powder with fewer crowds, and early April provides a chance for spring skiing.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a prime spot for photography. The gondola ride itself also provides scenic photo opportunities.
Yes, the scenic beauty and the experience of skiing or snowboarding down the slopes make it a great location for videography, as seen in various travel vlogs.
For capturing the expansive landscapes and action shots, a wide-angle lens is useful. For action shots, consider a GoPro or similar action camera.
Drone usage policies can vary by location and season. It's always best to check with the resort management or local authorities regarding drone regulations before flying.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing action shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking accommodation at one of the ski-in/ski-out hotels at the base of the mountain for maximum convenience. This allows families to easily transition from their rooms to the slopes, minimizing travel time and hassle. While the resort is large, the availability of connected areas like Okushiga means there's plenty of terrain to explore without needing to move the car frequently.
🏂 Snowboarders and Skiers
While many visitors praise the abundant snow and lack of lift lines, it's wise to be aware of potential icy conditions or temporary lift closures, as reported by some.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The gondola ride itself is also a scenic journey, providing elevated perspectives of the winter landscape. Bringing a GoPro or similar action camera is recommended for capturing dynamic shots of skiing or snowboarding down the slopes.
Remember to check for any drone usage regulations if you plan to capture aerial footage. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Slopes of Yakebitaiyama
Travelers have noted that while the resort is large, the experience can vary. Some visits are characterized by abundant snow and minimal lift lines, offering a serene skiing experience. However, there have been instances where icy conditions or limited operational lifts impacted the experience, leading to disappointment for some visitors who paid for full access. It's advisable to check the operational status of lifts and slopes before your visit, especially if planning to ski during shoulder seasons or after periods of variable weather.
The resort also offers ski-in/ski-out accommodation at the base of the mountain, which is a significant convenience for those who want to maximize their time on the slopes. This proximity allows for easy access to the lifts in the morning and a relaxed return after a day of skiing.
The Yakebitaiyama Gondola Experience
From the summit, skiers and snowboarders can embark on runs that can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes to complete, depending on skill level and chosen route. The views from the top are often described as breathtaking, with opportunities for stunning photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
This makes the gondola ride an integral part of the Yakebitaiyama experience, connecting the base amenities with the expansive ski terrain above.It's worth noting that the operational status of lifts, including the gondola, can sometimes be affected by weather conditions or maintenance. While generally reliable, it's always a good idea to confirm its operating status with the resort staff or through their official channels, especially if it's a critical part of your planned route.
Tips for a Smoother Visit
Parking is another aspect to consider. While Yakebitaiyama offers ample and free parking, navigating to the correct lot can sometimes be confusing, even with GPS. Familiarizing yourself with the resort map beforehand or asking for directions upon arrival can prevent unnecessary stress.
Finally, be prepared for variable conditions. While Yakebitaiyama is known for its snow, reports of icy slopes or closed lifts do surface. Checking weather forecasts and lift statuses is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring you can make the most of your time on the mountain.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit