Shiga Kogen Half-Day Motorcycle Tour | Explore Japan’s Highest Road & Scenic Nature
Tour Details – What to Expect
Imagine starting your journey at Shiga Kogen Olympic Hotel, the morning air crisp and refreshing at over 1,500 meters above sea level. As you prepare your motorcycle, the surrounding mountains promise an unforgettable ride filled with breathtaking views and hidden natural gems.
From the hotel, you ease onto Route 292, Japan’s highest national road. The ride begins gently, winding through alpine forests where cool air brushes against your face. Soon, the road climbs higher, and you feel the excitement of ascending into the clouds. The scenery opens up—on one side, lush mountain slopes; on the other, deep valleys that stretch endlessly below.
After an exhilarating ascent, you reach Shibu Pass (2,172 m), the pinnacle of Japan’s road network. Here, you stop at the iconic "Highest National Route" marker, a must-see for riders. The view is endless: distant peaks fading into soft blues and greens, a panorama that makes every turn of the road worth it.
From there, the adventure continues to Yokoteyama Skylator, where you trade your bike for a unique open-air moving walkway. As you slowly glide upward, the view expands dramatically. At the summit café, you sip coffee while gazing over ridges blanketed in forest, a peaceful reward for your climb.
Back on your bike, the route gently descends toward Kido-ike Pond, tucked away like a secret in the forest. The still waters mirror the trees perfectly, inviting a quiet stroll and a moment to breathe deeply. The ride feels calmer here—less about speed, more about savoring the journey.
Finally, you reach Ōnuma-ike Pond, a volcanic crater lake with striking blue waters. Surrounded by trails and marked by a solitary torii gate, it feels almost spiritual. Walking around the lake, you hear nothing but the wind through the trees and the soft ripple of water.
The return ride brings it all together: winding roads, fresh mountain air, and that unbeatable sense of freedom that only comes from a motorcycle ride in nature. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a story you become part of, a perfect half-day escape blending adventure, serenity, and the wild beauty of Shiga Kogen.