One of the best ways to enjoy winter in Japan is by visiting a ski resort, where you can experience the thrill of snowboarding or skiing in a white winter wonderland.
At Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located in Ōtsu City, Shiga Prefecture, one of the largest ski resorts in the Kansai region, you can enjoy skiing while taking in breathtaking views of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake.

Itinerary

• 07:45 Meet at Osaka Kanidōraku Dotonbori Higashi Branch

• 08:00 Departure (on time)

• 10:15 Arrive at Biwako Valley Ski Resort (approx. 5.5 hours of skiing)

• 18:00 Return to Osaka

Attraction Introduction

Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, located on the border of Honshu and the Kansai region, not far from Kyoto. Formed by ancient glacial activity, it covers an area of about 670 square kilometers and is one of Japan’s five major freshwater lakes. Lake Biwa is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural history.

The surrounding towns and attractions are diverse, including Ōtsu City, Hikone City, and many temples, shrines, and castles. The lake’s picturesque views attract tourists and photographers year-round. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as boating, birdwatching, and fishing. In addition, Lake Biwa serves as an important water source for the region, supporting supply, irrigation, and power generation. Overall, it is not only a significant natural landmark but also an essential part of Japan’s cultural and ecological heritage.

Biwako Valley Ski Resort
Located in Ōtsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Biwako Valley Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the Kansai region. With convenient access from Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe, it is a popular choice for winter day trips. Here, visitors can enjoy exhilarating ski runs while overlooking the breathtaking panorama of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake.

About Biwako Valley Ski Resort

Nestled in the Hira Mountains of Ōtsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Biwako Valley sits at an elevation of around 1,100 meters. A ropeway swiftly carries visitors up the mountain, where they’ll find well-developed slopes and facilities. The resort offers not only exciting ski runs but also spectacular views of Lake Biwa stretching out below.

Ski Highlights

• One of Kansai’s largest ski resorts: Easily accessible from Osaka, perfect for a one-day trip.

• 9 varied ski runs: From wide, beginner-friendly slopes to challenging intermediate and advanced runs.

• Scenic skiing experience: On clear days, enjoy sweeping views of Lake Biwa and even a sea of clouds.

• Kids’ Snow Play Park: A family-friendly snow park designed for children to build snowmen, enjoy tubing, and play safely.

Facilities

• Full rental service: Ski and snowboard gear, clothing, boots, and helmets available—perfect for first-timers.

• Ski school: Beginner lessons available for both adults and children.

• Mountaintop observation deck & Café 360: Relax with warm drinks and desserts while enjoying panoramic lake views.

Recommended For

• Ski beginners & first-timers

• Families with children

• Couples looking for a scenic winter getaway

• Travelers seeking the unique combination of skiing + lake view

This winter, carve your own tracks at Biwako Valley and experience the magic of snow-capped peaks mirrored by Japan’s largest lake.

Inclusions

• Transportation fare

• Consumption tax

Exclusions

• Meals

• Personal expenses

• Admission fees (unless specified)

• Any costs not mentioned above

• Ski equipment rental fees

• Ski lift tickets

• Biwako Ropeway round-trip fare

Reservation Notes

• Please arrive at the designated location at least 15 minutes in advance. Latecomers will not be waited for.

• The bus will depart on time. Please strictly follow the boarding schedule. The company is not responsible for late arrivals.

• In cases where attractions are closed or have time restrictions, the schedule may be adjusted to arrive earlier at the next stop or end earlier than expected.

• Traffic congestion or bad weather may cause changes to the itinerary.

• Natural disasters or extreme weather may result in tour cancellation. Please check with us to confirm departure status in such cases.

• Visiting time at each attraction is subject to traffic conditions and the number of participants on the day.

• If you cannot join the tour due to traffic delays or personal reasons, it will be considered a self-cancellation and no refund will be provided.

• If you voluntarily withdraw during the tour, no refund will be provided.

• During public holidays, road congestion may cause the tour to end later than scheduled. Additionally, if unavoidable delays result in extra expenses (e.g., taxi or accommodation), such costs will not be covered by the company.

• Bus seating cannot be reserved. Smoking is prohibited on the bus, and there is no restroom onboard.

• The tour leader is not a licensed guide. Only simple introductions will be given based on the day’s schedule. No professional guiding will be provided.

• If the Biwako Ropeway is suspended on the day of travel, the itinerary will be replaced with Oibuki Ski Resort, and a partial refund will be arranged. Please contact customer service for details. Replacement does not include Oibuki Ski Resort admission, ski equipment rental, or ropeway fees.

Confirmation Details

• This product requires double confirmation. After booking successfully, you will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours.

• If the minimum number of participants is not met, a cancellation notice will be sent by email 4 days prior to departure.

• If you do not receive the email within the stated time (including junk mail), please contact our travel consultant by email or call +852 2152-3599 during office hours.

How to Use

• Please present either a printed voucher or an electronic voucher on your mobile device when joining the activity.

• Meeting details: please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes in advance.

• If you arrive early, please wait patiently near the designated meeting point.

Cancellation & Amendment Policy

• No cancellations or amendments are allowed once the booking is confirmed.