From Osaka: Biwako Valley Ski Resort Day Tour

For winter sports enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating day trip from Osaka, the Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers a thrilling escape. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Japan’s largest freshwater lake, this destination promises a seamless blend of outdoor adventure and culture. With flexible cancellation terms and options for all skill levels, this tour provides a tempting opportunity to explore the region’s natural wonders and uncover its rich heritage. What awaits beyond the slopes, however, may just surprise you.

Key Points

• A day tour from Osaka to Biwako Valley Ski Resort, priced from $40.98 per person for a 10-hour experience.
• Includes round-trip transportation and 5.5 hours of free time at Biwako Terrace, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, or scenic views.
• Departure from Osaka, with approximately 2.25 hours of travel time to the ski resort and back.
• Highlights of the Lake Biwa region include its large freshwater lake, rich biodiversity, and cultural history.
• Biwako Valley is a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts in the Kansai region, with well-groomed slopes and modern lifts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Biwako Valley Ski Resort Day Tour from Osaka offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake.

Priced from $40.98 per person, the 10-hour tour includes round-trip transportation from Osaka and free time at the Biwako Terrace. Guests can take advantage of the resort’s skiing and snowboarding opportunities or simply soak in the breathtaking views.

The tour features flexible cancellation terms, with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.

Wheelchair users should note the tour may not be suitable for their needs.

Itinerary and Transportation

Starting from the 1-chōme-1-3 Dōtonbori location in Osaka, the tour bus travels for approximately 2.25 hours to reach the Biwako Valley ski resort.

Once there, guests enjoy 5.5 hours of free time to explore Biwako Terrace. The return trip takes another 2.25 hours back to the original meeting point.

While the itinerary is subject to change, the tour typically includes transportation, the Lake Biwa Cable Car round-trip, and all necessary taxes.

Guests should note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and certain items like alcohol and food are prohibited on the vehicle.

Highlights of the Lake Biwa Region

Surrounding the Biwako Valley ski resort lies Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake spanning an impressive 670 square kilometers.

The lake boasts a rich biodiversity, home to over 1,000 species of flora and fauna. Cultural history is also abundant, with ancient temples and shrines dotting the lakeshore.

Visitors can discover the unique ecosystem and heritage by exploring the area around Biwako Terrace. The stunning views from the ski resort offer a glimpse into the natural beauty of the Kansai region, making it an ideal destination for both winter sports and culture.

Skiing and Snowboarding at Biwako Valley

Biwako Valley offers a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts in the Kansai region.

The resort boasts well-groomed slopes, modern lifts, and stunning views of Lake Biwa. Visitors can choose from a variety of terrain, including beginner-friendly runs and challenging black diamond trails.

Rental equipment and lessons are available on-site, making it accessible for skiers and boarders of all skill levels. The resort’s convenient location, just a 2.25-hour bus ride from Osaka, makes it an ideal day trip option.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time rider, Biwako Valley delivers an exhilarating winter sports experience.

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Cultural History and Biodiversity

Beyond its winter sports offerings, Biwako Valley also captivates visitors with the rich cultural heritage and diverse natural landscapes surrounding Lake Biwa.

As Japan’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Biwa is home to:

1. Over 1,000 plant and animal species, including endangered cranes and otters.

2. Historic sites like Chikubu Island, with its Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples dating back centuries.

3. Traditional fishing villages and cultural festivals that celebrate the lake’s pivotal role in the region’s economy and identity.

4. Stunning natural scenery, from towering mountains to tranquil shores teeming with birdlife.

Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the Biwako Valley Ski Resort Day Tour, the package includes the transportation fare, consumption tax, and the round-trip fee for the Lake Biwa Cable Car. However, the tour excludes dining expenses, personal expenses, and ski equipment rental fees. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Inclusions	Exclusions	Suitability
Transportation fare	Dining expenses	Not suitable for
Consumption tax	Personal expenses	wheelchair users
Lake Biwa Cable Car round-trip fee	Ski equipment rental fee

Meeting Point and Guidelines

When you arrive at the meeting point, look for the guide with the EasyGo sign, wearing an orange jacket.

The tour guidelines are:

1. Prohibited items include alcohol, drugs, food, and drinks in the vehicle.

2. If the Lake Biwa Cable Car is out of service, the itinerary changes to Okuibuki Ski Resort with a refund for the cable car ticket.

3. Partial refunds may be issued for facility closures due to force majeure.

4. Possible delays during consecutive holidays; costs for taxi or overnight stay aren’t covered.

Adhere to these guidelines for a smooth and enjoyable tour experience.

Potential Itinerary Changes and Refunds

If the Lake Biwa Cable Car is out of service, the itinerary changes to Okuibuki Ski Resort, and customers receive a refund for the cable car ticket. Plus, partial refunds are issued for facility closures due to force majeure, such as weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Possible delays may occur during consecutive holidays, but costs for taxi or overnight stay are not covered.

Potential Changes	Compensation
Lake Biwa Cable Car out of service	Refund for cable car ticket
Facility closures due to force majeure	Partial refund
Delays during consecutive holidays	No coverage for taxi/overnight

Things To Know

Is Equipment Rental Available at the Resort?

Ski equipment rental is available at the Biwako Valley Ski Resort, but it’s not included in the tour package. Visitors can rent skis, snowboards, and other gear on-site for an additional fee.

How Is the COVID-19 Safety Protocol Implemented?

The tour operator follows COVID-19 safety protocols, including sanitizing vehicles, requiring masks, and limiting group sizes. Guests must complete a health questionnaire prior to departure. Specific measures may vary and are subject to change based on local guidelines.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Resort?

Bringing personal food and drinks is prohibited on the tour. The tour includes transportation fare and cable car fees, but excludes dining expenses. Consuming outside food and beverages in the vehicle is not allowed.

Do I Need a Ski Pass or Lift Ticket to Access the Slopes?

Yes, visitors will need to purchase a ski pass or lift ticket to access the slopes at the Biwako Valley Ski Resort. The tour doesn’t include the cost of the ski pass or lift ticket, so guests will have to pay for them separately.

Are There Any Age or Skill Level Restrictions for Participating?

The tour has no age or skill level restrictions – it’s open to all participants. However, certain activities like skiing and snowboarding may have their own age/skill requirements to ensure safety.

Sum Up

The Biwako Valley Ski Resort day tour from Osaka offers an incredible opportunity to experience the natural beauty and winter sports of Japan’s renowned Lake Biwa region. With round-trip transportation, flexible cancellation policies, and options for all skill levels, this tour provides an exhilarating and culturally enriching getaway for ski and snowboard enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time visitor, this day trip is sure to create lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: