Overview
Experience the magic of a Kansai winter with this exhilarating day trip from a designated meeting point, combining the thrill of skiing at Biwako Hakodateyama Ski Resort, the serene beauty of Metasequoia Avenue, and the soothing relaxation of Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa. Tailor your adventure with options for all-day skiing, all-day snow play, or a mix of half-day snow fun and sightseeing. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Biwa from the gondola, stroll through the snow-draped Metasequoia Avenue, and unwind in starry-sky hot springs. With professional ski equipment, trilingual guides (Chinese, English, Japanese), and round-trip transfers, this tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a blend of winter sports, natural beauty, and cultural relaxation in Shiga Prefecture.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Why Choose This Tour?
- Flexible Winter Fun: Choose all-day skiing, snow play, or a mix of snow activities and sightseeing to suit your preferences.
- Stunning Scenery: Admire Lake Biwa from Hakodateyama’s gondola and stroll the iconic Metasequoia Avenue, a “100 Best Japanese Roadside Trees” gem.
- Relaxing Onsen: Soak in Makino Kogen Onsen’s “Starry Sky” and “Wind Chime” baths, with family-friendly co-ed options.
- All-Inclusive Gear: Ski packages include equipment and suits; snow fun packages provide tubes and snowshoes for hassle-free enjoyment.
- Trilingual Support: Chinese, English, and Japanese guides ensure clear communication and engaging commentary for all travelers.
Highlights
- Hakodateyama Ski Resort: Enjoy slopes for all skill levels, a kid-friendly snow play zone, and breathtaking Lake Biwa views via gondola.
- Metasequoia Avenue: Walk a 2.4-km snow-covered avenue lined with 500 metasequoia trees, offering a romantic and tranquil winter scene.
- Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa: Relax in historic hot springs with views of the Akasaka Mountains, including the co-ed Bade Zone for families.
- Panoramic Views: Capture the beauty of Lake Biwa and Mount Nogasaka, with opportunities for postcard-worthy photos.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Snow play areas and hot springs cater to all ages, making this ideal for group or family outings.
- Professional Equipment: Ski packages include skis, suits, and lift passes; snow fun packages provide tubes and snowshoes for easy access.
Package Options
1. [Half-Day Snow Fun + Sightseeing]
- Includes snow tube, snowshoes, one-day snow pass, and visits to Metasequoia Avenue and Makino Kogen Onsen
- Price: ¥15,000 per person
2. [All-Day Skiing]
- Includes ski equipment, ski suit, and one-day lift pass at Hakodateyama Ski Resort
- Price: ¥23,750 per person
3. [All-Day Snow Fun]
- Includes snow tubes, snowshoes, and one-day lift ticket at Hakodateyama Ski Resort
- Price: ¥15,000 per person
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Itinerary
- 07:00 – Departure from designated meeting point (confirmed via email)
- 09:30 – Biwako Hakodateyama Ski Resort (2 hours 30 minutes, self-guided; all packages)
- 13:00 – Metasequoia Avenue (1 hour, self-guided; Half-Day Snow Fun + Sightseeing package only)
- 14:10 – Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa (2 hours 30 minutes, self-guided; Half-Day Snow Fun + Sightseeing package only)
- 17:30 – Return to meeting point
Note: All-Day Skiing and All-Day Snow Fun packages spend the full day (approximately 6–7 hours) at Hakodateyama Ski Resort, skipping Metasequoia Avenue and Makino Kogen Onsen.
What to Expect
Biwako Hakodateyama Ski Resort
Located in Shiga Prefecture, Hakodateyama Ski Resort offers slopes for beginners to experts, with a dedicated PLAY ZONE for kids featuring snow tubing and play areas. Ski packages include full equipment (skis, suit) and lift passes, while snow fun packages provide tubes, snowshoes, and passes for a carefree experience. Ride the gondola (included) for stunning views of Lake Biwa, framed by snow-draped mountains. With 2.5 hours (or all day for select packages), enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or playful snow activities amidst Kansai’s premier winter scenery.
Metasequoia Avenue (Half-Day Snow Fun + Sightseeing Package)
Stroll along the 2.4-km Metasequoia Avenue on Shiga’s Koaraji Makinozawa Line, lined with 500 snow-covered metasequoia trees. Selected as one of Japan’s “100 Best Roadside Trees” in 1994, this avenue offers a romantic and tranquil winter escape. Enjoy views of Mount Nogasaka and capture the serene beauty during your one-hour visit.
Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa (Half-Day Snow Fun + Sightseeing Package)
Unwind at Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa, featuring the “Mantenboshi” (Starry Sky) and “Furinkan” (Wind Chime) hot springs with views of the Akasaka Mountains. The co-ed Bade Zone welcomes families (swimsuits not required, fees: ¥750 adults, ¥400 children 3–12). Spend 2.5 hours soaking to relieve post-ski fatigue and immerse in Shiga’s historic onsen culture.
What’s Included
- Admission to Biwako Hakodateyama Ski Resort (one-day snow pass or lift ticket)
- Equipment: Snow tube + snowshoes (Snow Fun packages) or ski equipment + ski suit (Skiing package)
- English/Chinese/Japanese-speaking guide with live onboard commentary
- Round-trip transfers from the meeting point
- Toll fees, parking fees, and fuel fees
Note: Onsen fees (¥750 adults, ¥400 children) and meals are not included.
Pre-Departure Notice
You will be contacted via email between 18:00–22:00 the day before departure with tour guide and vehicle information. Check your spam folder, and refer to the latest email if multiple received. Arrive 10 minutes early at the meeting point and look for the guide flag. Latecomers or no-shows will not be refunded. Due to Japanese law limiting vehicle use to 10 hours, the itinerary may be adjusted based on traffic or conditions. Severe weather or force majeure may alter park hours or cancel activities without notice; no refunds for changes.
Additional Notes:
- One piece of luggage per guest (note in “Special Needs” when booking). Unreported luggage may lead to refusal to board for safety reasons, with no refunds.
- Shared ride tour; no mid-tour departure allowed. Early departure is considered voluntary abandonment, with no refunds or liability for accidents.
- Itinerary order may be adjusted with guest consent due to traffic or weather, without reducing attractions.
Good to Know
- Luggage: One piece per guest (24–28 inches). Note oversized luggage in advance; unreported luggage may lead to boarding refusal.
- Safety: Skiing is strenuous; consider travel/accident insurance. You are responsible for collision-related costs.
- Group Tour Rules: No leaving mid-tour; you are responsible for accidents after early departure. No refunds for uncompleted portions.
- Weather Adjustments: Itinerary may be adjusted for safety or weather; staff may suspend outdoor activities with alternative arrangements.
- Vehicle Type: Vehicles vary by group size and cannot be specified.
Reviews
- “A winter dream!” – “Hakodateyama’s slopes were perfect for our family, and the kids loved the snow play zone. Metasequoia Avenue was breathtaking, and the onsen was so relaxing. The guide was fantastic!”
- “Great for beginners!” – “The ski package had everything we needed, and the Lake Biwa views were stunning. The trilingual guide made it easy to follow, and Metasequoia Avenue was pure magic.”
- “Perfect day trip!” – “Loved the snow fun package—tubing was a blast! The onsen was a great way to end, and the avenue’s snowy trees were unforgettable. Highly recommend!”
FAQs
Q: Are onsen fees included?
A: No, Makino Kogen Onsen fees (¥750 adults, ¥400 children 3–12) are not included and must be paid on-site.
Q: Are meals included?
A: Meals are not included, but dining options are available at Hakodateyama Ski Resort or nearby during free time.
Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: Yes, the PLAY ZONE at Hakodateyama and co-ed Bade Zone at the onsen are family-friendly. Children 3+ require onsen fees.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Warm winter layers, non-slip shoes, and ski-appropriate clothing (suit included in ski package). Bring swimwear or towels for the onsen.
Q: Can I join from outside the meeting point?
A: The tour departs from a designated meeting point. Contact the operator for potential alternative pick-ups.
Q: What if weather affects the tour?
A: Itinerary may be adjusted or activities suspended for safety due to weather; no refunds for changes.
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