Shiga Highland Hotel

We had a great stay at Shiga Highland Hotel in February 2010. The room rates are very reasonable, yet breakfast and dinner are included in the price. To our surprise the dinner is a culinary delight. Traditional Japanese food of great variety, only the freshest ingredients used. This became the highlight of the day after a soak in the Onsen (spa) on 1st floor. The breakfast is basic Japanese. The hotel is located at Maruike, but it takes only minutes to higher altitudes via ski lift and ropeway. Skiing was fantastic with great slopes for beginners and intermediate skiers. There were no ski lift queus and we tried most of the 71 lifts. It is easy to ski from one area to the next, and back home to the hotel. No need to stay higher up in the mountains. Most hotels have ski rentals, but it is recommended that the rental shop at Hotel New Shiga next door is used. The staff is experienced and high quality boots up to size 12.5 were available. The hotel room was spacious, but basic and could need a facelift. Our family of three had a 6-person room by ourselves. Heating is very efficient. Takes only a moment before the room is warm and we had to turn it off during the night. The hotel is crowded on weekends, but quiet during the week. The staff is very polite and helpful, but English ability limited. This was no problem. Internet is normally not available, but free access provided on request. The hotel ought to provide wireless access in the lobby as this is expected these days. The Maruike area is quiet during evenings. Limited after-ski activities. We hope we can go back to Shiga Highland Hotel next year.