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Product #4035
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Two skiers descend a snowy slope at Biwako Valley Ski Resort, surrounded by snow-covered trees and an open trail.
A skier stands on the snowy slope at 琵琶湖山谷滑雪場, holding ski poles and overlooking the expansive lake.
A gondola climbs above the snowy slopes at 琵琶湖山谷滑雪場, overlooking the broad lake and surrounding valley.
Two snowboarders walk across a snowy slope at 琵琶湖山谷滑雪場, overlooking a broad lake below.
A snowboarder leans into a turn while descending a groomed slope at 琵琶湖山谷滑雪場.

Biwako Valley Ski Resort Day Trip from Osaka/Kyoto

Japan-Kansai , Osaka , Kyoto , Shiga , Namba , Kyoto Station Area , Otsu , Biwako Valley
4.5Very Good
Sold 5K+
Duration:1 day(s)
Guided language: English / Mandarin
Free cancellation 5 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • Round-trip coach from Namba OCAT (Osaka) or Kyoto Avanti straight to Biwako Valley Ski Resort in Shiga
  • The only ski resort in the Kansai region with a snowboard halfpipe, slalom course and mogul course
  • Ropeway ride up to about 1,000 m with panoramic views over Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake
  • Snow Land with free sled rental and snow rides for kids and non-skiers
  • Packages from bus-only to full ski or snowboard sets with lift pass and snow wear included
  • Real-time voice and text translation in English, Chinese and other languages throughout the tour
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK
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Package Options

Details
Select a package to view details

Ski Activities

Tour TypeShared tour
Minimum participant requirement1 traveler
Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point

Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypeShared tour
Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point
Minimum participant requirement1 traveler
Meal arrangementArrange yourself
SeasonalWinter Ski Collection
Sightseeing typeNatural sights
TransportBus tour

Product Info

－ Itinerary Introduction －

  • Biwako Valley Ski Resort (琵琶湖バレイ)

Located in Shiga Prefecture, Biwako Valley enjoys excellent snow quality and terrain. The resort has 8 courses and 7 lifts, and is the only ski area in the Kansai region fully equipped with a snowboard halfpipe, slalom course and freestyle mogul course. Beyond the ski facilities, kids and adults alike love Snow Land, where free sleds are available for families along with rides such as spinning snow carousels that are sure to delight children. What Biwako Valley is best known for, though, is the view: besides playing in the snow, you can look out over Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, from an elevation of around 1,000 m and enjoy a spectacular snowy panorama!

－ Rental Fees －

※ Ski gear, snow wear, goggles, hats and other equipment are available for rent or purchase on-site; fees are subject to the resort's posted rates.

※ If you need rentals, please arrange and pay for them directly on-site.

※ Rental size reference: children aged 4–12 (height 80–150 cm) / adults aged 13 and above (height 150–190 cm)

－ Important Information －

  • At the boarding point, look for staff holding a "LIMON" sign or wearing yellow uniforms.
  • If Biwako Valley has a strong wind warning, insufficient snow or a cable car suspension on the day of departure, the tour will go to Hakodateyama Ski Resort instead without further notice.
  • Children under 3 may join for free without a seat; please let us know in the "Remarks" field when booking.

Which Biwako Valley Ski Resort package should I choose?

Choose according to your activity and whether you need equipment.

Your plans

What to check before booking

Skiing

Ropeway access, ski lift pass, skis, boots, poles, and snow clothing

Snowboarding

Ropeway access, ski lift pass, snowboard, boots and snow clothing

Snow play and sightseeing

Ropeway access, snow play admission and suitable footwear

Bringing your own equipment

Required passes and arrangements for carrying equipment on the coach

Inclusions vary by package. Check your selected option before paying.

Equipment rental and purchases

Ski gear, snow clothing and accessories are available for rental or purchase onsite, depending on the item. Arrange and pay for anything not included in your package at the resort's posted rates. Confirm which accessories are rentable before relying on onsite availability.

Rental category

Reference age

Reference height

Children

4 to 12 years

80 to 150 cm

Adults

13 years and above

150 to 190 cm

These ranges do not guarantee fit or availability. Confirm suitable sizes before booking, especially for young children.

Where do I board the coach?

Departure city

Meeting location

Osaka

Namba OCAT

Kyoto

Kyoto Avanti

Follow the exact meeting point and departure time on your voucher. Arrive at least 10 minutes early with your voucher and photo ID. Look for staff carrying a LIMON sign or wearing yellow uniforms.

This is a shared coach tour with assigned seats and a scheduled return journey. Hotel pickup is not included.

Will the tour visit Biwako Valley or Hakodateyama?

Biwako Valley is the planned destination. The operator may substitute Hakodateyama if strong winds, insufficient snow, or ropeway suspension affect operations.

Your selected package's inclusions will be retained, although facilities and terrain differ between resorts. If the tour cannot operate, the operator will notify you and provide a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for beginner skiers?

It can suit beginners who arrange suitable instruction before using the slopes. A ski lesson is not included a default.

Check lesson availability, teaching language, and whether the session fits the coach's schedule before booking. The tour leader and translation service do not replace a ski instructor.

Does the tour include lunch?

No. Meals are at your own expense. Budget for lunch and refreshments during your resort visit.

Can children under 3 join?

Yes. Children under 3 may join free without a separate coach seat. Include their details in the booking remarks.

This transport arrangement does not guarantee eligibility for rental equipment or snow activities. Check the relevant requirements before booking.

Can I cancel my booking?

You can cancel for free at least 5 days before the selected date. Check your package's terms for charges closer to departure.

Missing the coach or withdrawing for personal reasons does not qualify for a refund.

Purchase Notice

[Travel Conditions]

Departure / destination: Osaka/Kyoto ・ Shiga

Duration: Day trip (same-day return)

Transportation: Chartered bus

Bus company: Shinki Bus or partner bus companies

Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0

Accommodation: None

Minimum participants: 1

Tour leader: 1

Tour guide: 0

[Travel Planning / Operation]

Operating company: Shinki Kanko Co., Ltd.

Address: 1 Nishiekimae-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture

License No.: Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner Registered Travel Agency No. 2108

Travel association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), full member

Reminders

  • Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women

  • Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time

  • Please bring your voucher and valid photo ID with you for identity verification

  • The bus departs on time, so please observe the meeting time. No refund will be given for lateness or withdrawal from the tour for personal reasons.

  • If the tour cannot operate due to weather or other force majeure, we will notify you immediately and issue a full refund.

  • No-shows without any prior notice on the day will be treated as voluntary non-participation.

  • All bus seats are assigned; seat numbers will be announced on the day.

  • Ski accessories (gloves, goggles, beanies) are not included; you can buy them and rent helmets on-site.

  • If there is insufficient snow or the cable car is not operating, the tour will go to nearby Hakodateyama Ski Resort instead, with the same inclusions as your selected package.

  • Real-time voice and text translation is provided throughout the tour, supporting English, Chinese and other languages. For a better experience, we recommend bringing your own earphones for the voice translation service.

FAQ

1. Is Biwako Valley Ski Resort open throughout the winter season?

Biwako Valley Ski Resort generally operates during the winter season, typically from December to March, depending on snow conditions. It's advisable to check the official operational schedule for specific dates before your visit to ensure it aligns with your travel plans and to confirm current opening status.

2. What are the typical crowding levels at Biwako Valley Ski Resort during peak winter periods?

Biwako Valley Ski Resort can experience higher crowding levels, especially on weekends and public holidays during the peak winter season, as it's a popular destination. Weekdays usually offer a more relaxed skiing experience with fewer crowds, allowing for more open slopes and shorter wait times for facilities and the aerial tramway.

3. What unique features does Biwako Valley Ski Resort offer for skiing and snow play?

Biwako Valley Ski Resort features diverse ski slopes suitable for various skill levels, offering exhilarating challenges for experienced skiers and gentle runs for beginners. It also includes "Snow Land," a dedicated area where both adults and children can safely enjoy playing in the snow, making it a great family-friendly destination.

4. When is the optimal time to visit Biwako Valley Ski Resort for the best snow conditions?

The optimal time to visit Biwako Valley Ski Resort for the best snow conditions is typically from mid-January to late February. During this period, the snow cover is usually at its deepest and most stable, providing excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and general snow activities.

5. What transportation options are available to reach Biwako Valley Ski Resort from Osaka or Kyoto?

You can enjoy a comfortable day trip to Biwako Valley Ski Resort with private car service departing from Osaka or Kyoto city centers. This option eliminates the need to plan public transportation routes, providing a convenient and hassle-free journey directly to the resort and back to your departure city.

6. How can one purchase tickets for the Biwako Ropeway at Biwako Valley?

Tickets for the Biwako Ropeway can typically be purchased on-site at the Biwako Valley Ski Resort ticket counter. For a convenient and seamless booking experience, you can also secure your ropeway access as part of a tour package through KKday, which often includes round-trip transportation, simplifying your travel arrangements and overall planning.

7. What scenic views can be enjoyed from the Biwako Ropeway observation deck at Biwako Valley?

From the observation deck reached by Japan's fastest aerial tramway at Biwako Valley, visitors can overlook the magnificent Lake Biwa from an altitude of 1,783 meters. The panoramic views include the vast snowscape surrounding the resort and the impressive expanse of the lake, offering stunning photo opportunities.

8. Are there different levels of ski slopes available at Biwako Valley Ski Resort for various skill levels?

Yes, Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers a variety of ski slopes designed to accommodate different skill levels. Skiers can challenge themselves on ever-changing slopes, ensuring that both beginners and experienced individuals can find suitable terrain for an enjoyable and thrilling experience down the snow-covered landscape.

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