Frequently Asked Questions

HOW LONG IS THE WINTER SEASON IN MADARAO?

The resort typically opens mid December and closes at the end of March. Snow conditions vary but this region of Japan is renowned for heavy snowfall. On average the resort receives 10m of snow. It is possible to be riding powder as early as mid December and those bluebird days in March are perfect for cruisers, park and backcountry hikes.

HOW CLOSE IS THE LODGE TO THE SKI HILLS, BARS AND RESTAURANTS?

We are ski in / out lodge depending on your ski ability. It is possible to walk across the road from the lodge and ski straight into the main runs and children’s “magic carpet” area, alternatively the main beginner mountain lifts are a short walk away. The Madarao shuttle bus is also close by and you’ve got easy access to the township of Iiyama (Shinkansen station), Myoko and Nozawa Onsen. There are also restaurants, bars and all important Onsens nearby.

IS THERE AN ONSEN IN THE LODGE?

No. However, there are a few within easy walking distance.

DO YOU HAVE ANY DISCOUNT LIFT TICKETS?

Yes. We have discounted tickets for Madarao or the combined ticket including Madarao and Tangram Ski Circus.

HOW CAN I RENT GEAR?

Multiple ski and snowboard rental outlets are located on the mountain.

HOW CAN I ARRANGE SKI OR SNOWBOARD LESSONS?

There are multiple English speaking ski & snowboarding schools in Madarao. We can arrange lessons for you or direct you towards the best fit depending on your skill level. Kuma Lodge is located right next to the beginner ski slopes and North Nagano Outdoor Sports who offer ski and snowboarding lessons of all abilities in English and Japanese, along with backcountry tours for the more experienced.

DO YOU HAVE INTERNET?

Yes. We have high-speed internet. You can use wireless free of charge.

DO YOU HAVE LAUNDRY?

Yes and it’s free. We also have a dryer.

HOW DO I PAY?

After booking your room, we ask that you pay a 30% deposit by credit card to secure your booking. The remaining balance will be charged to your credit card 90 days prior to your reservation date to secure your booking.

IS THERE A CANCELLATION CHARGE?

Yes. Your 30% deposit will be held in case of cancellation. For any cancellation within 90 days of your reservation start date, you will be charged for your accommodation in full.

CAN I GET A PICK UP ONCE IN MADARAO?

Yes. Once you know your arrival time in Madarao, notify us by email or phone or you can call us once you arrive. If you’re coming by train, go to Iiyama station and take a taxi directly to Kuma Lodge (approx. AUD $55 and 15 mins drive) or the Madarao shuttle bus (approx. JPY700 or AUD $8) to Madarao Kogen Hotel (approx. 450m walk from Kuma Lodge) where you will be picked-up by our staff & returned to Kuma Lodge in our private van.

DO YOU HAVE PARKING?

Yes and it’s free, however, only limited parking is available

CAN I RENT A CAR IN JAPAN?

Yes. But be sure to get your international drivers license before you leave home. In most countries it’s quite easy and cheap to get one! Below are a couple links to some of the bigger car rental agencies in Japan with some service in English.

Avis: AVIS

Nippon Rent-a-Car: NIPPON RENT A CAR

HOW CAN I GET MONEY IN MADARAO?

There are ATM’s that accept foreign bank cards in the neighbouring town of Iiyama which is approx 25 mins drive, however, no ATM’s currently in Madarao. We recommend you arrive at Kuma Lodge with enough local currency to cover your spending whilst in Madarao.

SPECIAL OFFERS AT KUMA LODGE

Advertised special deals for bookings made at Kuma Lodge are independent of each other and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer we advertise.

Can I use Black Cat to courier my luggage to Kuma Lodge & Woodpecker Lodge?

Yes. If you are staying at Kuma Lodge or Woodpecker Lodge, please send your luggage to our Kuma Lodge address noted below and include postal code, and phone number below. Please email our Lodge managers with the details prior to your arrival, and pre-pay direct to Yamato Express.

Kuma Lodge
Address: 11492-327, Hachibotsuka, Iiyama, Ooaza, Iiyama-shi, Nagano-ken. 389-2253.
Phone number: 0269-67-0125