"The food is delicious and very varied. And the onsen bath was fantastic. They have access to a spring that makes your skin feel soft like cotton.
Truly a lovely experience"
"The food is delicious and very varied. And the onsen bath was fantastic. They have access to a spring that makes your skin feel soft like cotton.
Truly a lovely experience"
"It is a beautiful property, walking distance from the outlet. We loved staying there in a cabin. We were told by a staff that we couldn’t check in until the official check-in time, but when I asked another staff. I was told that the room was already ready and we could check in."
"It is a beautiful property, walking distance from the outlet. We loved staying there in a cabin. We were told by a staff that we couldn’t check in until the official check-in time, but when I asked another staff. I was told that the room was already ready and we could check in."
"Our stay here was amazing. The onsens were relaxing and beautiful, but the staff is what made our stay one of our favorite places while in Japan. Everyone went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and at home."
"Our stay here was amazing. The onsens were relaxing and beautiful, but the staff is what made our stay one of our favorite places while in Japan. Everyone went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and at home."
"Amenities were extremely good. The hotel is in a really good location in Shiga Kogen. The food and drinks were good. The staff was always helpful and friendly! "
"Amenities were extremely good. The hotel is in a really good location in Shiga Kogen. The food and drinks were good. The staff was always helpful and friendly! "
"We really enjoyed our stay at Urakusatsu Tou. The room was spotless and the bed was very comfortable. The location near the town center made everything feel easy, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. We'd definitely recommend it."
"We really enjoyed our stay at Urakusatsu Tou. The room was spotless and the bed was very comfortable. The location near the town center made everything feel easy, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. We'd definitely recommend it."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
I love love LOVED our stay. I have been telling everyone about. The service was wonderful. The staff were amazing. Of all the accommodation we stayed in during our trip, this place had the most authentic and special vibe to it. From greeting us at arrival, to the moment of check out, I was impressed with every aspect of the stay: the traditional room, the beautiful garden and waterfall, the onsens, the meals and especially, the lovely service. Do yourself a favour, and stay here.
I love love LOVED our stay. I have been telling everyone about. The service was wonderful. The staff were amazing. Of all the accommodation we stayed in during our trip, this place had the most authentic and special vibe to it. From greeting us at arrival, to the moment of check out, I was impressed with every aspect of the stay: the traditional room, the beautiful garden and waterfall, the onsens, the meals and especially, the lovely service. Do yourself a favour, and stay here.
What a delightful place to stay! Cannot praise the staff enough! They were all so helpful, friendly and accomodating. Some English speaking staff, who were honestly the best we met in our two week stay in Japan. We were told that they don’t get many English-speaking visitors and we were the only ones there, which my teen son and I loved. We love immersing in the Japanese experience when visiting, and this hotel definitely offered this.
The rooms were simple but clean and tidy and well...
What a delightful place to stay! Cannot praise the staff enough! They were all so helpful, friendly and accomodating. Some English speaking staff, who were honestly the best we met in our two week stay in Japan. We were told that they don’t get many English-speaking visitors and we were the only ones there, which my teen son and I loved. We love immersing in the Japanese experience when visiting, and this hotel definitely offered this.
The rooms were simple but clean and tidy and well...
Absolutely loved our stay here! The buffet breakfast and dinner included were great and provided a vast range of Japanese, Western and Italian options. The staff went above and beyond to welcome us and our ten month old baby. The rooms were well maintained and spacious for Japan. Gorgeous location, but remember that it is quite a distance away (at least 20 mins by car if not further) from restaurants (for dinner, there are a few lunch options closer)/convenience stores, etc.
Absolutely loved our stay here! The buffet breakfast and dinner included were great and provided a vast range of Japanese, Western and Italian options. The staff went above and beyond to welcome us and our ten month old baby. The rooms were well maintained and spacious for Japan. Gorgeous location, but remember that it is quite a distance away (at least 20 mins by car if not further) from restaurants (for dinner, there are a few lunch options closer)/convenience stores, etc.
Kendall
Reviewed October 25, 2026Reviewed October 25, 2026
The facilities, room, food and location were all excellent. The hotel is right next to a ski lift and beginner slope. The staff and owner were extremely helpful and courteous. I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Shiga Kogen.
The facilities, room, food and location were all excellent. The hotel is right next to a ski lift and beginner slope. The staff and owner were extremely helpful and courteous. I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Shiga Kogen.
Anonymous traveller
Reviewed January 17, 2020Reviewed January 17, 2020
Highlight was our private onsen room, which was fed by a natural spring, very cleansing.
Amazing food and extremely friendly and helpful staff. Will definitely be coming back.
Highlight was our private onsen room, which was fed by a natural spring, very cleansing.
Amazing food and extremely friendly and helpful staff. Will definitely be coming back.
Jacob
Reviewed February 3, 2026Reviewed February 3, 2026
We felt like we were staying with family. Shiho, Masaru and the whole team were welcoming and very helpful during our stay. Breakfast and dinner were home cooked and allowed us to sample many different and delicious Japanese delicacies. Snow on our last 2 days was magical. Thank you!
We felt like we were staying with family. Shiho, Masaru and the whole team were welcoming and very helpful during our stay. Breakfast and dinner were home cooked and allowed us to sample many different and delicious Japanese delicacies. Snow on our last 2 days was magical. Thank you!
Helen
Reviewed December 20, 2019Reviewed December 20, 2019
Staff was extremely helpful and friendly. Location was fab. Place definitely gives vintage vibes and nostalgic feels but we felt very comfortable nonetheless. Breakfast and dinner buffets were super tasty and had great variety each day. The shabu shabu and yakiniku restaurants onsite were also amazing! Some of the best wagyu we’ve had! I would recommend getting your rentals elsewhere, as we didn’t have a good experience with the rentals onsite, whilst cheap the stock was definitely outdated. My...
Staff was extremely helpful and friendly. Location was fab. Place definitely gives vintage vibes and nostalgic feels but we felt very comfortable nonetheless. Breakfast and dinner buffets were super tasty and had great variety each day. The shabu shabu and yakiniku restaurants onsite were also amazing! Some of the best wagyu we’ve had! I would recommend getting your rentals elsewhere, as we didn’t have a good experience with the rentals onsite, whilst cheap the stock was definitely outdated. My...
Natalie
Reviewed February 9, 2026Reviewed February 9, 2026
This was easily our favourite place we stayed on our Japan trip - the hotel is a traditional Tatami mat style hotel where you sleep on mats and the flooring is reeds. It's in the centre of the Shibu village and all 9 of the public hot spring baths are within walking distance. There is a photo in their reception of the family that started the hotel and the great grandson of the founder and his mother still work there today. They have a bus that drove us around, the picked and dropped us off at...
This was easily our favourite place we stayed on our Japan trip - the hotel is a traditional Tatami mat style hotel where you sleep on mats and the flooring is reeds. It's in the centre of the Shibu village and all 9 of the public hot spring baths are within walking distance. There is a photo in their reception of the family that started the hotel and the great grandson of the founder and his mother still work there today. They have a bus that drove us around, the picked and dropped us off at...
Our stay here in March 2025 was wonderful. The staff could not have been more friendly or helpful, even picked us up from the station without prior arrangement! The food was incredible, traditional Japanese breakfast that set us up for the day and a delicious dinner which when combined with the sake and very comfortable futons ensured a great night’s sleep. Took advantage of the private Onsen which was very relaxing. However with so many public Onsen (including at the hotel) it was a bit of an...
Our stay here in March 2025 was wonderful. The staff could not have been more friendly or helpful, even picked us up from the station without prior arrangement! The food was incredible, traditional Japanese breakfast that set us up for the day and a delicious dinner which when combined with the sake and very comfortable futons ensured a great night’s sleep. Took advantage of the private Onsen which was very relaxing. However with so many public Onsen (including at the hotel) it was a bit of an...
The whole stay was a great experience. The staff were amazingly helpful. We needed to be picked up from the station and they came. I needed a PowerPoint adapter abd tgey were able to loan me one. We needed to get back to the station earlier than their set time abd tgey accommodated us. Well done guys, it was great.
The whole stay was a great experience. The staff were amazingly helpful. We needed to be picked up from the station and they came. I needed a PowerPoint adapter abd tgey were able to loan me one. We needed to get back to the station earlier than their set time abd tgey accommodated us. Well done guys, it was great.
We only spent 1 night at Kokuya hotel however I wish we could have stayed longer. We were too shy to make the most of the many private and public onsens available, so we stayed in a room with our own private outside thermal bath which I highly recommend. The staff were fantastic and so accommodating. Without a doubt, they were the nicest I met on my trip.
We only spent 1 night at Kokuya hotel however I wish we could have stayed longer. We were too shy to make the most of the many private and public onsens available, so we stayed in a room with our own private outside thermal bath which I highly recommend. The staff were fantastic and so accommodating. Without a doubt, they were the nicest I met on my trip.
LORETTA
Reviewed October 21, 2018Reviewed October 21, 2018
This was such a beautiful little getaway for a few days relaxing in a traditional Japanese style accomodation with onset!
The staff were incredibly lovely and accommodating, especially for my partner who has a lot of food allergies (so they quickly replanned all the amazing food courses for him!). Such a great start to our trip to Japan.
This was such a beautiful little getaway for a few days relaxing in a traditional Japanese style accomodation with onset!
The staff were incredibly lovely and accommodating, especially for my partner who has a lot of food allergies (so they quickly replanned all the amazing food courses for him!). Such a great start to our trip to Japan.
Nicole
Reviewed February 24, 2026Reviewed February 24, 2026
Thrilling Skiing: Shiga Highlands is a winter wonderland, offering excellent ski resorts and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in traditional onsens, providing a perfect way to relax after a day on the slopes.
Stunning Scenery: Experience breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains and picturesque landscapes unique to Nagano Prefecture.
Cultural Exploration: Discover local culture through nearby towns, museums, and traditional experiences.
Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a variety of lodging options, including welcoming hotels and charming ryokans.
Find great hotels in and around Shiga Highlands
Experience the beauty of Shiga Highlands in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, with a range of accommodation options to suit every traveller. Choose from welcoming hotels and traditional ryokans, perfect for those seeking hot spring relaxation and thrilling ski adventures. Discover top picks like Shiga Highland Hotel (志賀ハイランドホテル) and Hotel Ichinose, ensuring a memorable stay amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Shiga Highlands, Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel is a 3-star haven for adventure seekers and winter sports enthusiasts. With easy access to ski lifts and shuttles, guests can dive right into exhilarating activities such as snowboarding and skiing onsite. The hotel also offers additional outdoor pursuits like hiking and snowshoeing, making it an ideal choice for those looking to embrace the great outdoors. Comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect retreat after a day of adventure.
Kusatsu Onsen Daitokan: A charming 3.5-star ryokan located 12.9km from Shiga Highlands, Kusatsu Onsen Daitokan is perfect for travellers seeking a serene hot spring experience. This ryokan features both indoor and outdoor public onsens, allowing guests to unwind in natural mineral-rich waters surrounded by tranquil surroundings. With a focus on traditional Japanese hospitality, guests can indulge in a relaxing atmosphere while enjoying the exquisite local cuisine, making this an authentic Japanese retreat.
Hotel New Koyo: Situated 12.9km from Shiga Highlands, Hotel New Koyo offers a wonderful blend of comfort and relaxation with its hot spring amenities. The hotel features both indoor and outdoor public onsens, providing a perfect setting to soak and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. Ideal for those looking for a hot spring themed getaway, this accommodation combines modern conveniences with traditional Japanese charm, ensuring a memorable stay for all guests.
Where to stay near Shiga Highlands
Shiga Highlands is a stunning destination perfect for ski and adventure enthusiasts. Nestled in Nagano Prefecture, this area offers a relaxing experience with breathtaking scenery and traditional Japanese hospitality. Explore nearby towns to soak in the local culture, meet friendly locals, and enjoy family-friendly attractions. Whether you're hitting the slopes or enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, Shiga Highlands promises an unforgettable getaway that combines adventure with serene relaxation.
Kusatsu: Nestled roughly 11.3km from the Shiga Highlands, Kusatsu is a vibrant city renowned for its outdoor adventures and winter sports. While visitor numbers remain fairly steady throughout the year, the peak seasons in January to February and September draw ski enthusiasts eager to hit the slopes. The area features excellent ski fields and resorts, making it a perfect spot for thrill-seekers. Beyond skiing, Kusatsu is famous for its hot springs (onsen) and picturesque lakes, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. The blend of stunning landscapes and lively activities makes Kusatsu a must-visit destination.
Yamanouchi: As the home of the Shiga Highlands, Yamanouchi is a delightful city that attracts visitors year-round. With peak travel times in January, April, and July, it offers thrilling skiing experiences and a range of sports activities. The area is lined with ski fields and resorts, ensuring that both novices and seasoned skiers can enjoy the slopes. In addition to outdoor activities, Yamanouchi is known for its beautiful parks and soothing onsens, making it an ideal location for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the local culture.
Kusatsu Onsen: Located about 12.9km from Shiga Highlands, Kusatsu Onsen is a charming village that offers a unique cultural experience centred around wellness and relaxation. Known for its healing hot springs, this village is a perfect getaway for those seeking rejuvenation. The peak travel season falls between December and February, making it a popular winter retreat. Outdoor activities like skiing are easily accessible, while the serene lakes and picturesque landscapes provide a tranquil backdrop to your visit. Kusatsu Onsen truly embodies the essence of Japanese culture and relaxation.
Things to do in and around Shiga Highlands
Shiga Highlands offers a fantastic winter getaway, perfect for ski and adventure enthusiasts. You can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at well-equipped resorts, with easy access to ski fields and facilities. Rental services for ski equipment are readily available, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Explore the stunning tourist spots in the area while indulging in thrilling sports activities amidst the beautiful snowy landscapes of Nagano Prefecture.
Shopping
In Shiga Highlands, visit FARMUS Kijimadaira, a local market 19.3km away with a vibrant city atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, head to Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, located 41.8km away, offering a mix of shopping, entertainment, and family-friendly vibes.
Recreation
Indulge in the soothing Jizo Hot Spring, located 12.9km from Shiga Highlands, for a rejuvenating body treatment. For some outdoor fun, head to the Kusatsakogen Golf Course, 11.3km away, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes.
Adventure
Experience the thrill at Shiga Kogen Ski Area, located 1.6km from Shiga Highlands, where you can enjoy fantastic skiing and vibrant sports vibes. Okushiga Kogen Ski Area, 8.0km away, offers exhilarating slopes, while Maruike Ski Area, nestled in Shiga Highlands, provides excellent skiing opportunities for all levels.
Nightlife
For an exciting night in Shiga Highlands, visit Chibikko Ninja Village, an arcadeAdventureZone 37.0km away, perfect for family fun and adventure. Alternatively, enjoy a cultural experience at Shinshu International Music Village, a theatre 43.5km away, ideal for romance and entertainment.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shiga Highlands
To save money during your trip to Shiga Highlands, consider visiting in April, June, or October for lower accommodation rates compared to the peak months of August and December to January. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and look out for last-minute discounts on sites like Expedia. Staying on a Wednesday can also save you money, while Saturday is the priciest. Make use of Expedia’s package deals to combine your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings, and always compare prices to find the best rates available.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shiga Highlands are April, June and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Shiga Highlands is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shiga Highlands is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shiga Highlands is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re looking for. To uncover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Shiga Highlands hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in and around Shiga Highlands
Shiga Highlands is a fantastic destination for ski and adventure enthusiasts, offering a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as hot springs, museums, and ski resorts. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or a relaxing soak, Shiga Highlands caters to all tastes. Don't forget to check out the local gift shops for unique souvenirs to remember your trip!
Shibu: Experience the soothing outdoor hot springs of Shibu, located 6.4km from Shiga Highlands. This tranquil setting offers a perfect escape for wellness and relaxation, allowing you to unwind in nature’s embrace while soaking in the mineral-rich waters.
Mount Yokote: Embark on an adventure at Mount Yokote, nestled within Shiga Highlands. This mountain provides breathtaking scenery and exhilarating outdoor activities, whether you're hiking in the warmer months or skiing during winter.
Shiga Kogan Nature Conservation Center: Discover the rich culture and friendly atmosphere at the Shiga Kogan Nature Conservation Center. This civic space invites you to relax and connect with nature while learning about the local ecosystem in a tropical-like environment.
Best time to go to Shiga Highlands
The best time to visit Shiga Highlands is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
28.4°F (-2.0°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Slightly High
February
29.8°F (-1.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Average
March
37.4°F (3.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
April
47.7°F (8.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
May
58.6°F (14.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately Low
Average
June
65.5°F (18.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
July
72.5°F (22.5°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
August
73.9°F (23.3°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
September
65.7°F (18.7°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
October
54.1°F (12.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
November
44.6°F (7.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
December
34.2°F (1.2°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Slightly High
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shiga Highlands like?
Shiga Highlands is a neighbourhood that travellers like for its skiing. Looking for sights you might find in a travel guide about Shiga Highlands? Consider a visit to Shiga Kogen Ski Area while you're in the neighbourhood.
What's a favourite hotel to stay in Shiga Highlands?
Based on our traveller data, Kumanoyu Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay in Shiga Highlands. This hotel offers a restaurant and free parking. Other good options for your stay in the area include Hotel Takimoto and Sachinoyu Hotel Shiga Kogen.
How many hotels can I expect to find in the Shiga Highlands area?
If you're searching for places to stay in Yamanouchi, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 45 Shiga Highlands hotels and other accommodation options to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Shiga Highlands, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to get the best options available in Shiga Highlands.
What is there to do around this Yamanouchi neighbourhood?
Spend some time exploring the great outdoors at Mount Yokote, Onumaike Pond and Ishinoyugenjibotaru Park. As you're discovering the neighbourhood, Shiga Kogen Ski Area and Hasuike Ski Area are some other places worth a visit. Higashitateyama Gondola Lift, Shiga Kogan Nature Conservation Center and Tanne no Mori Okojo Ski Resort are just a few of the places to visit in and around Shiga Highlands. Maruike Ski Area and Ichinose Family Ski Area are also worth a visit when you're out sightseeing in Yamanouchi.