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Shigakogen Ichinose Area
Where the Colors of the Four Seasons Meet: Shiga Kogen’s Ichinose Area
Shiga Kogen reveals a different face in every season — a journey of budding life in spring, vibrant nature in summer, rich abundance in autumn, and quiet healing in winter.
Located near the heart of Shiga Kogen, the Ichinose area is home to one of the largest concentrations of hotels and facilities in the resort, making it a lively and central base for visitors.
Spring — A Season Woven in Fresh Green
Spring in the Ichinose area of Shiga Kogen is a beautiful season when the highlands slowly awaken as the snow begins to melt.
The contrast between lingering white snow and the soft green of newly budding trees creates a landscape unique to this time of year. In the clear mountain air, the songs of wild birds and the gentle sound of melting snow echo softly, allowing visitors to feel the quiet breath of nature.
Away from the bustle of busy sightseeing areas, Ichinose is ideal for those who want to enjoy a relaxed walk or a peaceful stay. Rather than bright, showy scenery, spring in Ichinose offers the quiet richness of a highland landscape gradually regaining its color.
Summer — A Refreshing Highland Escape
Summer in the Ichinose area of Shiga Kogen is defined by its cool, refreshing climate, made possible by its high elevation.
Even when the heat is intense in lower-lying areas, Ichinose offers pleasant breezes and comfortable days. Deep green landscapes under clear blue skies, crisp morning and evening air, and a soothing sense of quiet make this area perfect for refreshing both body and mind.
Whether you enjoy walking, hiking, or simply spending a relaxing time at your accommodation, Ichinose offers an ideal summer retreat. Surrounded by nature, visitors can experience a refined and refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Autumn — Brilliant Contrasts of Fall Colors
Autumn in the Ichinose area of Shiga Kogen is one of the most popular seasons, when the mountains and highlands are painted in vivid fall colors.
Trees in shades of red, yellow, and orange spread across the landscape, creating a striking contrast with the clear blue sky. Thanks to the elevation differences throughout Shiga Kogen, the colors change gradually, allowing visitors to enjoy different expressions of autumn depending on the time and location.
The cool, crisp air makes this season perfect for walking and photography. As you stroll through quiet forests and step over fallen leaves, you can feel the depth, elegance, and natural richness that define autumn in the highlands.
Winter — One of Japan’s Premier Snow Resorts
In winter, the Ichinose area of Shiga Kogen becomes one of Japan’s leading snow resorts, known for its high-quality snow and extensive ski slopes.
Blessed with light, dry snow and stable snowfall, the area offers a comfortable winter sports experience for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
With excellent access to nearby areas such as Ichinose Family and Ichinose Diamond, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of runs and a spacious skiing experience. The snow-covered highland scenery is also breathtaking, while the crisp morning air and quiet evening atmosphere offer a special kind of beauty.
Winter in Ichinose lets visitors enjoy both the excitement of skiing and the comfort of a relaxing resort stay, making it a destination that continues to attract many guests.
The Ichinose area of Shiga Kogen is the central resort district that was developed latest and most systematically within Shiga Kogen. Originally, it was a deep natural forest used by local residents as communal land for making charcoal and gathering wild mountain vegetables. Even today, an 800-year-old Japanese linden tree, designated as a natural monument, tells the story of this long history.
Full-scale resort development began in 1964, when the Ichinose Family Ski Area opened and lift operations started. In 1969, winter bus services and night skiing were also introduced, establishing Ichinose’s position as the central hub of Shiga Kogen as a whole.
Because its development came later, the hotels were built in a unified Swiss mountain-lodge, or chalet, style. This beautifully harmonized with the natural landscape, creating a townscape that has been carefully preserved to this day.
Ichinose Through the Seasons Comingsoon.
Nature in Ichinose Comingsoon.
Recommended Highlights of Ichinose Comingsoon.
Sustainability Initiatives in Ichinose
Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Protecting Native Char and Preserving Water Quality
To protect the native strain of Japanese char that inhabits the headwaters of the Zako River and Kozako River, Ichinose has introduced an advanced, area-wide wastewater treatment system.
This system purifies water to a level more than ten times stricter than environmental standards, helping to maintain the area’s exceptional water quality.
Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Landscape Preservation and Visual Harmony
Strict regulations are in place regarding building height and exterior colors.
By maintaining a unified streetscape based on the Swiss chalet style, Ichinose protects the scenic beauty of the national park and preserves harmony with the surrounding natural environment.
Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Reducing Food Loss and Promoting Local Production for Local Consumption
Hotels in the Ichinose area actively incorporate local ingredients into their menus.
This contributes to the regional economy while helping reduce CO₂ emissions associated with food transportation.
Efforts are also being made to reduce food loss throughout the area.
Goals 13 and 15: Climate Action and Life on Land
Eco Experiences and Environmental Education
As an area recognized as part of a UNESCO Eco Park, Ichinose offers a wide range of SDGs-based experiential learning programs for schools and groups.
These programs include:
Nature learning through trekking in primeval forests
Participation in invasive species removal activities to protect alpine plants
Resource-saving experiences such as eco-style outdoor rice cooking
Environmental education programs that encourage deeper awareness of nature conservation
Traditional Community Activity
“Otenma”: Local Cooperative Maintenance Work
Ichinose continues the traditional practice known as Otenma, a form of community-based maintenance work that has been carried on since the Edo period.
Local residents work together to maintain and clean waterways, walking trails, and shared natural spaces.
This long-standing tradition forms an important foundation for sustainable community management in the Ichinose area.
Commitment to Nature Conservation
The owners and operators in Ichinose see nature conservation as an essential responsibility of those who live and work in the area.
Through daily efforts to protect the natural environment, they strive to create a comfortable and welcoming setting for all visitors.
Initiatives in the Ichinose Area Comingsoon.
UNESCO Eco Park