Madarao Mountain Resort Travel Guide

Madarao Mountain Resort, nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, offers a unique and exhilarating ski experience. Known for its incredible powder snow, affectionately called "Madapow," the resort is a haven for powder enthusiasts and tree skiing aficionados. With an average of 10 to 13 meters of snowfall each season, Madarao boasts a reputation as one of Japan's snowiest destinations.The resort features a diverse terrain with 31 courses and 10 lifts, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Approximately 60% of the courses are ungroomed, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the deep powder. Madarao is also interconnected with the Tangram Ski Circus, offering access to even more slopes and terrain.Beyond the slopes, Madarao offers a laid-back atmosphere with a growing number of Western-friendly accommodations, bars, and restaurants. The nearby town of Iiyama provides a glimpse into authentic Japanese culture, with its charming temples and local cuisine. Madarao's location also makes it an ideal base for exploring other nearby ski resorts such as Nozawa Onsen and Myoko Kogen.Madarao has a fascinating history. It was purpose-built as a ski resort in the 1970s and became popular, especially with the Japanese royal family. After a quiet period, the resort has seen a rebirth, driven by the opening of the Shinkansen (bullet train) station in Iiyama and the renovation of old ski lodges.