Guide
Shirakaba 2in1 Ski Resort is a high-altitude mountain resort located in the Tateshina Town area of Shirakaba Lake, Nagano Prefecture, sitting at an elevation of over 1,500m. The name "2in1" comes from the integration of the former Shirakaba International Ski Resort and Shirakaba Kogen Ski Resort. The resort's standout features are its diverse range of courses catering to all skill levels—from beginners to advanced experts—and its exceptionally high rate of sunny days, ensuring great visibility. The vast terrain provides a spacious and comfortable environment for both skiers and snowboarders.
The resort's development began in 1976 with the opening of the Lumiere side, followed by the completion of the Core House side in 1986. By 1990, the lift infrastructure was fully integrated into the current "2in1" system, merging the two areas. Today, it is operated as a community-based resort owned by Tateshina Town. Despite its long history, the course design effectively utilizes the natural terrain, making it a long-standing pillar of winter leisure in the Shirakka Lake region.
The slopes are designed with a wide layout, allowing many runs to be completed without the need for frequent lift changes. The abundance of gentle slopes makes it an excellent choice for practice sessions or family outings. For more adventurous riders, the resort offers uncompacted snow areas and park items to enjoy terrain changes and speed. A major highlight is the view from the summit; on clear days, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Yatsugatake Mountains, the Southern Alps, and Mount Karamatsu. The interesting topography also makes it a favorite for snowboarders who enjoy carving.
The peak season is winter (December to March). During periods of high sunshine, you can experience skiing under bright blue skies with stunning snow scenery. Standard operating hours from mid-December to late March are typically 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. However, during the early season or spring skiing period (from late March onwards), hours may change to 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. During the spring season, some weekends may even feature a special "BBQ Lunch Service," allowing you to enjoy a meal while feeling the warmth of the spring sun.
Beyond standard skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers a "Chibikko Park" (Kids' Park) for children to enjoy activities like sledding. You can also try unique experiences such as mountain karting (snow version). For those looking to hone their skills, various park items like rails, boxes, and kickers are available. After your runs, you can refuel at the on-site restaurant, which serves hearty meals such as Japanese curry and rice bowls.
The area around the resort is rich with sightseeing-friendly facilities. After a day on the slopes, you can soothe your muscles at nearby hot spring facilities like "Shirakaba Lake Onsen Suzuran-no-yu" or stay at the