Chances are you’ve had ski and snowboard friends tell you about Madarao, Japan. Well, those that like to boast anyway. The rest stay quiet in the hope they get the place to themselves.
It’s easy to see why. Well spaced powder tree skiing perfect to get a rhythm in, no lift lines, metres and metres and metres of famed Japan powder and local farmers still working as lifties in the winter.
This rural ski town a few hours from Tokyo serves up not one but two resorts on the one combined pass. Madarao and Tangram Circus with a good split of 30% beginner, 40% intermediate and 30% advanced. Together the two resorts, or rather sides of the mountain, have 46 runs and 15 official tree runs that have been gladed to create hero skiing and boarding.
Add some fun side country with backcountry guides and an eclectic growing village of dining offerings from Okinimiyaki Japanese savoury pancakes to craft beers and brews on tap. There’s even Allpress coffee in town.
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- Tangram Circus. Photo supplied.
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- Madarao. Photo supplied.
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- Madarao. Photo supplied.
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- Tree riding. Photo supplied.
The Aussie crew at the boutique ski in ski out Kuma Lodge already know the lure of Madarao and have just snapped up the neighbouring Woodpecker Lodge to offer a more budget style lodge, for those wanting to save their yen and spend longer in the land of the rising sun.
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- Kuma Lodge
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- Kuma Lodge
Trust us, this is good news. Kuma Lodge already has a great reputation for home style hospitality, stylish decor and the best location in town. Now it has Woodpecker to add to the fold.
Woodpecker Lodge is a no fuss budget friendly ski in ski out accommodation option with twin, double and family rooms, some with ensuite some with shared bathrooms. There’s also the coolest dining area with high ceiling beams and a living area to drink in the Madarao mountain views and even an on site male and female onsen for après soaking.
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- Woodpecker Lodge
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- Woodpecker dining area
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- Woodpecker Lodge family room
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- Woodpecker Lodge double room
Did we mention free wifi and daily complimentary breakfast? Yep, they have that too.
All from as little as Yen 15 000 (AUD$200) per night for a twin room depending on the time of season. Pinch me, I’m Japan dreaming.
Stay for free at Woodpecker this season
To celebrate the opening of the new lodge, the team have put together a killer deal with a buy 4 or more nights, get one extra one for free. Yep, book four or more nights and Woodpecker Lodge will throw in a bonus night for you.
Where do you get such a fancy deal? Contact the crew at Woodpecker by email and tell them we sent you or check out their new website and booking calendar.
Valid for bookings made between September 13 and October 15, 2019. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.
