Shiga Kogen Ski & Japan's Winter Highlights
- Duration 12 Days
- Tour Type Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style In-Depth
About This Trip
In this 12-day winter Japan itinerary, you will explore the golden route of Japan from Osaka to Tokyo, including the tranquil countryside discovery in Shirakawa-go, as well as the powder snow skiing in Shiga Kogen.
Touch down in vibrant Osaka, then step into the refined world of traditional Japanese aesthetics in Kyoto and Kanazawa. Capture Shirakawa-go's most iconic winter scenes before heading to Nagano to enjoy skiing, soothing hot springs, and an unforgettable encounter with snow monkeys.
Note: Shiga Kogen is renowned for its expansive interconnected terrain, reliable powder snow, and uncrowded slopes, ideal for dedicated skiers seeking quality time on the mountain from first lift to last run.
Itinerary Summary
| DAY | PLACE | HIGHLIGHTS |
| 1 | Osaka | Arrival & Free Exploration |
| 2 | Kyoto | Fushimi Inari Taisha, Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market, Gion, Kimono and Tea Ceremony Experience |
| 3 - 4 | Kanazawa | Day Excursion to Shirakawa-go |
| 5 - 9 | Nagano | Shiga Kogen Skiing, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park |
| 10 - 12 | Tokyo | Senso-Ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji Outer Market |
Suggested Itinerary
Welcome to Japan. Upon arrival at Osaka International Airport (ITM), your private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Kyoto for check-in. The rest of the day is yours. Take time to rest or explore the city at your own pace.
- Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto
Your Japan winter journey will begin in historic Kyoto. Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha and follow the thousands of vermilion torii gates winding through the forested slopes of Mount Inari. After a scenic walk, refuel at the lively Nishiki Market with local dishes and street snacks.
In the afternoon, continue to Nijo Castle, where the black-and-gold interiors and the distinctive chirping of the nightingale floors bring history to life. End the day in Gion, dressing in a traditional kimono that blends well with the wooden streets, before taking part in a traditional tea ceremony.
- B
- Kyoto
After your breakfast, take a short train ride to Kanazawa, the "Little Kyoto".
The remainder of the day is yours to explore freely, or join a 3-hour Shared night tour to explore the Geisha districts with a local guide, hear the tales of what actually went on in this district during the Edo period, and sit down at a local restaurant for a set meal.
- B
- Kanazawa
Shirakawa-go Village, Kanazawa
Let your guide lead you to Shirakawa-go today, a picturesque mountain village famed for its distinctive gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
In winter, the snow-covered village feels like a scene from a storybook. Wander along its peaceful lanes, step inside a traditional farmhouse, and enjoy panoramic views from the Shirakawago Observation Deck before returning to Kanazawa.
- B
- Kanazawa
Your Japan skiing tour at Shiga Kogen starts today. After breakfast, you will travel from Kanazawa to Nagano today. Upon arrival, transfer to the Shiga Kogen area, Japan's largest interconnected ski resort system.
Check in to your ski-in, ski-out accommodation, surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, preparing equipment for the fresh snow, or just relaxing after your journey.
- B
- Shiga Kogen
Begin your first full ski day exploring Shiga Kogen's vast network of interconnected slopes. Ski across areas such as Ichinose, Sun Valley, and Yakebitaiyama, enjoying wide groomed runs and forest trails.
Complimentary shuttle buses connect the various ski zones, providing seamless access throughout the wider highland region.
- B
- Shiga Kogen
Head to the higher-altitude regions, including Okushiga Kogen and Yokoteyama, where you can ski above 2,000 meters and enjoy some of Japan's most reliable powder snow. Stop at a mountain hut such as Yokote Sancho Hutte for a warm meal above the clouds, with panoramic views of the Japanese Alps.
- B
- Shiga Kogen
Continue exploring different ski zones at your own pace. Combine intermediate and advanced runs across multiple interconnected areas, taking advantage of both lift-connected slopes and complimentary inter-resort shuttle buses linking the wider Shiga Kogen ski system. End the day with a traditional onsen experience at your hotel.
- B
- Shiga Kogen
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Nagano
After breakfast, depart Shiga Kogen and head to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park just nearby. Follow the peaceful snowy trail to the forest park, where wild Japanese macaques are famously seen soaking in natural hot springs with steam and falling snow.
Next to Zenko-ji Temple, a historic pilgrimage site dating back over 1,400 years, with an optional experience walking through its mysterious underground "dark passage." In the late afternoon, continue a Shinkansen experience to Tokyo for your overnight stay.
- B
- Tokyo
Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo
Your Tokyo trip starts today with a visit to Meiji Shrine, which feels especially serene when dusted with snow, before heading to the lively Tsukiji Outer Market, where an array of fresh seafood and traditional snacks will warm both your body and your appetite.
Later, explore the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. The large red lantern hanging in the middle of the gate and the colorful wooden buildings will all be your inspiration for photography.
- B
- Tokyo
Ginza, Tokyo
Spend a full self-guided day at leisure in Tokyo to experience Tokyo like a local. Whether you prefer shopping in Ginza, exploring the lively streets of Shibuya, or discovering hidden cafés and local neighborhoods, this is the perfect opportunity to experience Tokyo beyond the guided itinerary.
- B
- Tokyo
Your winter Japan journey with Shiga Kogen skiing comes to an end today. Bid farewell to Tokyo and make your way to the airport for the international flight back home.
- B
What's Included in Your Private Tour
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A dedicated travel expert will work with you to design and arrange your itinerary based on your interests, travel style, schedule, and budget. Your trip can be adjusted as your plans take shape.
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Accommodation is selected based on location, quality, your preferences, and budget. Depending on the destination and itinerary, options may include international hotel chains, boutique hotels, and locally distinctive properties.
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Local guides are arranged in each destination, with strong language skills and in-depth local knowledge. Your guide will help you make the most of each destination while sharing local history, culture, and everyday life.
Guide arrangements may vary depending on your destination and itinerary. Please refer to your Tour Program for the specific guide arrangements for your trip.
If you have any special requirements for your guide, such as in-depth historical and cultural interpretation or expertise in a particular industry or subject, please let us know in advance so we can take your preferences into consideration when arranging your trip. -
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated driver, as specified in the itinerary
- Domestic trains as specified in the itinerary
- Domestic flights as specified in the itinerary
- International flights for selected multi-country tours, as specified in the itinerary.
Transportation arrangements can be adjusted to suit your itinerary and travel needs.
*As each trip is tailor-made, transportation arrangements may vary by itinerary and destination. The final arrangements will be detailed in your Tour Program.*International flights to and from your home country are normally not included in the initial Tour Program. If you would like, your travel expert can also help arrange these flights upon request.
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- Breakfast (B), lunch (L), and dinner (D) as specified in the itinerary
- Additional meals can be arranged upon request
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request
Your Travel Partner Every Step of the Way
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Before You Travel
- Personalized itinerary planning
- Professional advice from local experts
- Smooth booking support from start to finish
Every great journey starts with thoughtful planning. From the moment you contact us, we take the time to understand your travel style, interests, and expectations. Whether you’re looking for iconic highlights, local experiences, or a more relaxed pace, we help design a trip that truly fits you. -
While You Travel
- Expert local guides with deep knowledge
- 24/7 support for any on-the-go needs
- Flexible arrangements to suit your pace
Once your trip begins, we're right there with you behind the scenes. Our local guides, trusted partners, and support team work together to make your journey smooth, comfortable, and worry-free. From airport pickups to flexible day-to-day arrangements, we help you travel with confidence and ease. -
After You Return Home
- We welcome and value your feedback
- A travel team you can return to anytime
- Special benefits for your next journey
For us, the journey doesn’t simply end when the trip is over. We love staying connected with our travelers, hearing your feedback, and learning more about your experience. Your insights help us continue improving our services while also inspiring future travelers. Many of our guests travel with us again, or recommend us to family and friends, and that’s something we truly value.
Before You Travel
While You Travel
After You Return Home
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