Madarao Kogoen Ski Resort

Experience the hidden gem of Madarao, offering excellent powder snow and uncrowded slopes in the heart of Nagano prefecture.
Powder
9.0
Terrain
7.0
Family
6.0
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About the Resort

Madarao Kogen Snow Resort is a ski resort situated on the border of Niigata and Nagano prefectures.

  • The resort consists of two connected resorts, Madarao and Tangram.
  • It receives an average annual snowfall of 12 meters.
  • Madarao offers 15 lifts, including those in Tangram.
  • The ski terrain is divided as 30% beginner, 35% intermediate, and 35% advanced.
  • Madarao is particularly known for having the highest number of official tree runs in Japan12 and features 60% ungroomed courses.
  • It provides an exciting alternative to larger resorts1 and is considered a small resort that offers many surprises.
Official Site

Key Stats

Snow Depth
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Courses
31
Longest Run
4,900m
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Why You'll Love This Ski Resort
  • Exceptional Tree Skiing and Powder: Madarao is a powder paradise, boasting the highest number of official tree runs in Japan. It actively encourages going off-piste, making it one of the best destinations for those seeking action in the trees and powder bowls. Its ungroomed courses, which make up 60% of the terrain, ensure fantastic powder experiences.
  • Diverse Terrain for All Abilities: Despite its reputation for challenging terrain, Madarao caters to a wide range of skiers and snowboarders. It's an excellent choice for tree-loving powder junkies as well as families with first-timers, providing slopes for beginners, intermediates, and advanced riders.
  • Authentic Atmosphere and Good Value: Madarao offers an authentic Japanese experience in a more modern, "purpose-built" way. It is typically quieter and less crowded with Western skiers than more popular resorts like Hakuba Valley or Nozawa Onsen, providing more space on the slopes. It is also considered a resort that offers good value for money.
  • Excellent Sidecountry and Backcountry: The resort provides access to some of Nagano's best tree runs, sidecountry, and backcountry. It's recognized as a place where the best fun can be found off-piste.
  • Convenient Access: Madarao is accessible within approximately 3.5 hours from Narita Airport. It can also be easily reached from Iiyama Station via public bus and taxi.
Terrain

Level Guide

Beginner
30%
Intermediate
45%
Advanced
25%

Terrain Information2

Snowboard Park

Back Country : Yes

Ticket Price

Lift Tickets（1day）

Adult Lift Ticket: 6,200 yen

Junior Lift Ticket: 3,300 yen

Senior Lift Ticket: 5,600 yen

Rentals

Ski Set : 4,000 yen

Snowboard Set : 4,000 yen

Wear : 3,500 yen

Lesson

Ski Set : 3,800 yen

Snowboard Set : 3,800 yen

Wear : 3,300 yen

Access Information

Location

By Car

Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Madarao (3hr)

Parking

1,500 spaces

By Train

Tokyo Station→Joetsu-Myoko Station(2hr)→Bus(30min)→Madarao

Photo Gallery