We get it, driving on winter roads by yourself in Japan sounds so cool and fun, and it’s definitely a unique experience.
However, it’s important not to forget that there are risks involved. That’s why we’ve put together some tips on how to drive safely on winter roads in Shiga Kogen.
Just one wrong decision can lead to a serious accident, and it could ruin your whole trip. That would be really sad for all of us. So, DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE IT — it’s always best to be well-prepared mentally, physically and with the right equipment.
In Japan, there’s a saying: “The trip isn’t over until you get home” and “Your souvenir is a safe journey back home.”
We hope you have an amazing time and create as many wonderful memories as possible!
For those who are concerned about driving on winter roads, if you’re unsure whether your rental car is equipped with winter tyres or is a 4WD, or if you’re not feeling well, don’t worry.
You can take a bus from the Snow Monkey Park at the base of Shiga Kogen, and it will take you to Shiga Kogen in just 20 minutes.
Additionally, from Sun Valley onwards, a free shuttle bus service is available every day (between 08:30 and 17:30). Please check the bus timetable here.
If you travel from Yudanak Station, the Powder Express is a great deal with a discount price!
Normally, the round-trip fare from Yudanaka Station to Yamanoeki is 1,800 JPY, but by using the Powder Express, you can ride for just 1,200 JPY round-trip.
*The fare for purchasing online is 1,200 JPY. If you purchase at the ticket counter, the fare is 1,500 JPY.
Book the Powder Express ticket here!
If you have chains, please make sure to install them in advance at either the Michinoeki (Roadside Station) Yamanochi or the Kambayashi Chain Installation Station at the base of Shiga Kogen. The road leading up to Shiga Kogen is prone to ice, and it can be extremely dangerous for 2WD vehicles without winter tyres and chains, so we kindly ask you to avoid driving up in such vehicles.
▼ All the carparks in Shiga Kogen are free! ▼
Shiga Kogen is part of the Joshin’etsu Kogen National Park, so overnight stays in camper vans are generally not allowed.
Additionally, there are no 24-hour convenience stores or supermarkets within Shiga Kogen. The temperature can drop as low as -15°C at night, and even with proper cold-weather gear, it can become extremely cold once you turn off the engine.
For those traveling by camper van, it is recommended to use the Shinshu Michi-no-Eki Yamanouchi located at the foot of Shiga Kogen. This facility is open 24 hours and is close to a convenience store. (Note that there are no shower facilities here.)
If you are staying until the evening, you can use the nearby hot spring facilities such as Kaedeno Yu near Yudanaka Station, O-Yu in Shibu Onsen, or WakuWakuno Yu in Kamibayashi.
