First Snow & Ski Adventure in Shiga Kogen
#newyearnewtrip #travelanywhere Staying in the heart of Tokyo’s Shimbashi area, we set off early in the morning, filled with excitement for our first-ever ski experience. Our destination for the day was Shiga Kogen, one of Japan’s largest ski resorts, known for its powdery snow and stunning mountain scenery.
The journey began with a ride on the Shinkansen to Nagano Station, gliding through picturesque landscapes as the urban sprawl of Tokyo gave way to snow-dusted countryside. Upon reaching Nagano, we hopped onto a bus heading up to Shiga Kogen, eager to experience Japan’s winter wonderland.
Our first stop was Restaurant Takama, a cozy eatery offering exactly what we needed before braving the cold—steaming bowls of oden, freshly baked pizza, and even ice cream for those feeling adventurous. Sitting in the warmth of the restaurant while looking out at the snowy expanse outside was a moment to savor.
Fueled and ready, we set out to rent our ski equipment, only to hit an unexpected roadblock. Many of the rental shops had been fully booked in advance by private tour groups, leaving us scrambling for alternatives. Time was slipping away, and with the short winter daylight, every minute counted. Buses in Shiga Kogen ran infrequently, with wait times ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, making it even trickier to move between areas.
At Takaamagara, just as frustration was beginning to set in, we took a chance and flagged down a passing truck. To our relief, a kind Japanese uncle pulled over and offered us a ride. His generosity saved the day, taking us straight to Ichinose Family Ski Area, where we finally found available ski equipment.
Stepping onto the snow-covered slopes, we had our first-ever skiing experience—a mix of exhilaration, nervousness, and pure joy. The ski lift ride up was nerve-wracking, the height making our hearts race, but the moment we slid down, everything else faded away. The feeling of gliding over soft, powdery snow was unforgettable, made even more special by the fact that this was also our first time seeing snow in person.
As the sun dipped behind the mountains and the ski area prepared to close, we made our way back down to Nagano Station by bus, exhausted but exhilarated. Dinner was at Nagano-ken Choju-shokudo, a local spot specializing in comforting Japanese curries infused with mountain herbs. The warmth of the curry was the perfect way to end a day spent in the cold.
With full stomachs and happy hearts, we boarded the Shinkansen once more, watching the snowy landscapes blur past as we made our way back to Tokyo. It had been a day of unexpected hurdles, heartwarming kindness, and unforgettable firsts—one that we would cherish for a long time to come.
#myitinerary #travel #couplestrip #japan