Accessible within a two-hour drive from Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya via the Meishin Expressway and Kosei Road, Biwako Valley is a premier winter destination. Perched at an altitude of 1,100 meters, the resort boasts spectacular panoramic views of Lake Biwa and high-quality snow conditions guaranteed by world-class snowmaking technology.
The 2025-26 season brings even more excitement with the debut of a new trailer cafe at "Café 360" on the Horai summit, along with an upgraded snowmaking system for superior slope conditions. From nine diverse trails and a wide array of gourmet dining to fun snow activities, there is plenty to enjoy for everyone—whether you hit the slopes or not. In this article, we’ll take you through all the must-see highlights of Biwako Valley for the 2025-26 season.
Stunning Lake-View Slopes! Biwako Valley: Easy Access from the Kansai Area.
Biwako Valley is a premier snow resort boasting breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Biwa from north to south. By utilizing world-class artificial snowmaking technology to supplement natural snowfall, the resort ensures both high snow volume and excellent powder quality. For the current season, the addition of new snow machines has further boosted snowmaking capacity, ensuring consistently great conditions for a smooth and enjoyable skiing experience all winter long.
The resort features nine diverse trails designed for everyone from beginners to experts. Whether you are looking for gentle slopes to practice or a challenging 30-degree incline for an advanced run, there is a course for every level. Access to the summit is a highlight in itself—the ropeway’s 360-degree glass-walled cabin offers a spectacular aerial view as you glide toward the peak.
Getting to Biwako Valley is effortless via the Meishin Expressway and Kosei Road. Its prime location—just 5 minutes from the Shiga Interchange—puts it within a two-hour drive of Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya. It is also easily accessible by public transport, with a 10-minute bus ride from JR Shiga Station, making it the perfect destination for a spontaneous weekend day trip.
So Many Highlights! Featured Topics for Biwako Valley’s 2025-26 Season
The 2025-26 season at Biwako Valley is packed with highlights, featuring fresh new experiences and upgraded services. Here are the top must-see topics we’ve specially picked out for you.
Increased the number of automated snowmaking machines.
Expanding our snowmaking capabilities: From the 2024-25 season through this year, we have newly installed snow machines across the entire Giant Course and reinforced them on all major trails. This significantly reduces the risk of delayed openings due to lack of snow, securing a longer skiing season with high-quality slope conditions.
Furthermore, we have introduced a fully automated system that analyzes temperature and humidity in real-time. By automatically adjusting to produce the optimal snow quality with maximum efficiency, we can now provide a consistently stable and enjoyable environment for all our guests.
Stunning 360° Panoramic Views! A New Trailer Cafe Debuts at "Café 360" on the Horai Summit.
The biggest highlight of the 2025-26 season is the grand opening of the new trailer cafe at "Café 360," located at the Horai Summit—the highest point in Biwako Valley. While only the observation deck was available last season, the addition of the trailer cafe means you can now enjoy specially crafted drinks and sweets alongside a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Lake Biwa.
The contrast between the sparkling blue of Lake Biwa and the pure white snow in the crisp winter air is simply stunning. Why not take a break from skiing or snowboarding and treat yourself to a special moment with this spectacular scenery?
Step In and Go! Make Your Snowboarding Debut a Breeze with Burton Step-on®.
For the 2025-26 season, Biwako Valley has significantly expanded its rental inventory of the Burton "Step-on®" binding and boot system. Highly popular since last season, Step-on® is an innovative system that differs from traditional strap bindings—you simply click your boots into the bindings and you're ready to go. This drastically reduces the time and effort of gearing up, allowing you to hit the slopes instantly.
The rental corner also offers a wide selection of beginner-friendly gear, making it easy to enjoy winter sports even if you come empty-handed. Be sure to take advantage of these convenient services!
Fun for Everyone—Even if You Don’t Ski! Winter Sightseeing at Biwako Terrace.
Biwako Valley is a popular sightseeing destination even for those who don’t ski or snowboard. The centerpiece is "Biwako Terrace," located at the 1,100-meter summit. At the "Grand Terrace," featuring a unique three-tiered wooden deck, you can enjoy ever-changing perspectives of Lake Biwa as you move through the space. Immerse yourself in the striking contrast between the vast snowy landscape and the deep blue of the lake in the crisp winter air.
The summit area also hosts the "Terrace Cafe," with its cozy woody interior, and "Grill Dining & Bar HALUKA," offering authentic grilled cuisine from a live kitchen. Here, you can savor premium dishes like Omi Beef sirloin steak, along with specialty sweets and warm drinks, all while gazing at the spectacular scenery.
Save up to ¥2,400! Get the Best Deal with Online Advance Tickets.
Biwako Valley offers online advance tickets that are much more affordable than purchasing them at the ticket counter on the day of your visit. For a 1-day ski and snowboard pass, the window price is ¥6,800, but you can get it for as low as ¥4,400 online—saving you up to ¥2,400. Sightseeing and snow-play tickets are also discounted from ¥5,000 to as low as ¥2,700, a maximum saving of ¥2,300.
These online tickets can be used starting the day after purchase and allow for smoother entry by reducing the time spent waiting at the ticket window. Even on busy weekends and holidays, buying your tickets in advance ensures a stress-free experience. Enjoy Biwako Valley comfortably and at a great price!
Why Everyone Loves Biwako Valley! A Treasure Trove of Diverse Trails, Activities, and Gourmet Dining.
Biwako Valley is packed with exciting features that make it a favorite for many skiers and snowboarders. Here are the must-see highlights you should definitely check out when you visit.
For All Levels—From Beginners to Experts! Slopes with Stunning Lake Biwa Views.
Biwako Valley features nine diverse trails catering to everyone from beginners to experts. Right next to the ropeway summit station, "Uchimi Slopes" offers a gentle incline perfect for those just starting out. In the center of the resort, the "Alpen Course" provides fun terrain features like banks and waves for playful riding.
For intermediate skiers and snowboarders, the "Horai Panorama Slopes" are highly recommended. This wide, open run offers a stunning north-to-south panorama of Lake Biwa, giving you the exhilarating sensation of diving straight into the lake. Expert riders can challenge themselves on "Horai North Slopes," which boasts a steep 30-degree incline, or the "Champion Course," the resort's longest run at 1,400 meters. The varied terrain and natural moguls are sure to satisfy the competitive spirit of advanced riders.
Enjoy the Snow to the Fullest! Fun Snow Activities Even Without Skiing.
Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, Biwako Valley is packed with activities for everyone to enjoy. At "Snow Land," located at the 1,100-meter summit, you can experience the joy of sledding and playing in the snow. The free play area is equipped with shovels and other snow-play tools available at no cost, making it a favorite destination for families with small children.
For those seeking more excitement, the "Zipline Adventure" offers a thrilling experience as you soar over the snow with a panoramic view of Lake Biwa. Flying through the magical, wintry landscape provides an exhilaration that is truly unique to this season.
The resort’s rental shop also provides snow wear and boots, allowing you to drop by spontaneously and enjoy the winter wonderland empty-handed.
Savor the View! Biwako Valley’s Signature Ski Resort Dining.
Biwako Valley is well-known for its exceptional dining options, offering several restaurants where you can enjoy high-quality meals alongside breathtaking views. The "Terrace Cafe," located within "The Main" at Biwako Terrace, features a tranquil woody interior that provides a cozy space to unwind. It boasts signature terrace plates, specialty sweets, and a wide selection of hot drinks to warm you up.
Also in "The Main," the "Grill Dining & Bar HALUKA" serves hearty dishes like Omi Beef sirloin steak and seasonal soups that nourish both body and soul. For a more casual meal, "Bird Castle" at the center of the slopes offers popular favorites like curry and omurice (omelet rice). With large portions available, it’s the perfect spot to refuel after a long session on the snow. With such a wide variety of choices, your lunch and coffee breaks are sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Biwako Valley: Fun for kids and adults alike, whether you hit the slopes or not!
Biwako Valley is a premier scenic resort boasting unbeatable access from Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. Its allure lies in its nine diverse trails overlooking Lake Biwa and its high-quality facilities. The 2025-26 season is packed with exciting updates, including the debut of the new trailer cafe at "Café 360" and enhanced slope conditions thanks to an upgraded snowmaking system.
Beyond the slopes, the resort offers a wealth of experiences for everyone—whether you ski or not—from a wide variety of "slopeside eats" and snow activities to the iconic winter Biwako Terrace. It is a destination where families and friends alike can enjoy a unique snow mountain experience in their own style. This winter, immerse yourself in the breathtaking views and experience the ultimate winter getaway at Biwako Valley!
![カービングターン[SNOWBOARD編]](/realimg_report/36/ogimg.jpg)
![バックカントリーにチャレンジしてみよう！[SKI＆SNOWBOARD編]](/realimg_report/28/ogimg.jpg)
