SHIGA KOGEN
Shiga Kogen, located in the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park
in the north-east of Nagano, is popular as a winter-sports
destination. It was a centre for various skiing and other winter
sports competitions at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics,
and as such has excellent facilities, including an extensive lift
system. The area experiences great snow from November
all the way through to early May, allowing for optimal ski
conditions.
Shiga Kogen is surrounded by tall mountain peaks formed
through ancient volcanic activity, and is characterised by the
many ponds and marshes interspersed through the area.
The 71 rope and chair lifts that transport skiers through the
21 ski areas allow spectacular views of the dramatic scenery.
One convenient ticket allows access to all the lifts, as well
as shuttle buses running between interconnected slopes.
The longest course at Shiga Kogen runs for 6km, and there
is a vertical drop of 404m. 8 ski areas are open for nighttime
skiing, and other features include a snowboard park, mogul
slope, half pipe and a one make jump.
ALL LIFT TICKETS
One lift ticket allows you to ride on all of the 71 lifts,
gondolas and ropeways. Owing to this multi purpose
ticket, you can take the Shiga Kogen shuttle buses
running between the interconnected slopes as well.
OYAKI
Everyone from Nagano prefecture has fond
childhood memories of eating oyaki, a
round dumpling stuffed with soy-flavoured
vegetables. It is still a famous local dish, especially in
the Shiga Kogen area. The skin is traditionally made of
buckwheat dough which is steamed and roasted, giving
it a nicely browned crunch on the outside with the
inside kept moist. The fillings vary from miso-flavoured
savoury mushrooms and veggies to slightly sweet
pumpkin and red bean paste. Tuck in!
©Naeba Prince Hotel
