Shiga Kogen Nature Conservation Center

Trekking

Shiga Kogen is part of Joshin’etsukogen National Park and is designated ad an UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. The large difference of elevation arrows visitors to enjoy dynamic landscape and protects a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Trails List

The vast field offers various hiking trails tempting hikers to visit again and again in different seasons.

Reset
Forest Therapy Certification Course Icon
Forest Therapy Certification Course
Trail map download

Easy access to great views

Summer Lifts Information

To enjoy hiking

Shiga Kogen has a "special protection area" and allows you to relax and enjoy the natural scenery that changes from season to season. Here are some of the attractions and precautions for hiking in the Shiga Kogen comfortably.

A wide variety of vegetation can be enjoyed over a large area because of the difference in elevation.

"Shiga Kogen, which stretches from an elevation of 1,000 meters to the summit of Mt. Iwasuge at 2,300 meters, has a completely different vegetation depending on the area and season.

The varied topography, with mountains, forests, numerous ponds and wetlands, allows visitors to see different aspects of nature in a single day.

The Shiga Kogen, with its vast expanse and large difference in elevation, offers a fascinating experience of the depths of nature."

Appropriate clothing for walking

Even in summer, wear long sleeves and long pants, as the weather in the mountains is changeable and the temperature is 5 to 10 degrees lower than at the foot of the mountain, even on clear days. Wearing long sleeves and long pants is also effective as a measure against insects. Considering the impact on the natural environment, avoid using insect repellents as much as possible.

Rainwear that also serves as warm clothing is essential. Top and bottom separate type is convenient. Getting wet in the rain can lead to hypothermia and loss of physical fitness. Avoid using umbrellas because of the danger of lightning strikes.

Choose comfortable shoes and don’t wear sandals. Hiking shoes are recommended.

Clothing

Hat
Protects against sun, rain and injury.
Gloves
Protect hands from injury and dirt, and also serves as heat insulation.
Windbreaker
Wear layers of clothing to regulate body temperature. It can also protect against some rain.
Long sleeves and long pants
Spring and fall can be colder than expected. Bring some warm clothing such as a fleece jacket or sweater.
Trekking Poles
Not only does it reduce the load on downhill slopes and prevent falls, but it also assists in walking on level ground.
Comfortable shoes
Hiking or trekking shoes are recommended. Don't forget to check your tools before use!
Backpack
Keep both hands free.

What to bring

  • Rain wear (top and bottom separate type)
  • Drink
  • Snacks, rations
  • Hiking seat pad
  • Emergency kit
  • Trash bag
  • Bear bell Etc.

Forest Therapy Course

Forest therapy is an attempt to scientifically examine the benefits of forest bathing and apply them to mental and physical health.

The "Forest Therapy Study Group" was established as a collaboration of industry, government, and academia for forest therapy research. Based on the results of the study group, the Forest Therapy Executive Committee was established to promote the practice of forest therapy in specific forests, and forests that have been verified for their "healing" effects are recognized as "forest therapy bases" and "forest therapy courses”.

There are five certified therapy paths in Shiga Kogen, which attract many visitors during the season. In addition to the certified therapy paths, there are many other trails that offer hiking according to your physical fitness.

Guided Trekking

Fresh greenery attracts hikers in late May and June, pretty alpine plants bloom in July and August. In September, the weather turns cooler, allowing hikers to enjoy trekking in comfort. Then the entire mountain is covered in autumn leaves in October, making the end of the green season beautiful.

The Shiga Kogen Guides Association is here to help you enjoy and discover many attractions of Shiga Kogen.

Please enjoy the great nature of Shiga Kogen safely, securely, and happily.

Beware of wild animals!

Shiga Kogen is home to many wild animals, including stoats, the natural treasure of Nagano Prefecture, bears, Japanese serows, Japanese monkeys, raccoons, foxes, rabbits and more. Please do not feed them.

To avoid an encounter with a bear, use a radio, bell, whistle, or other sound-emitting object to alert the bear to your presence.