Madarao Mountain Resort is a rising star on Japan’s powder map. Known for its playful terrain, tree-filled slopes, and relaxed vibe, Madarao offers a refreshingly uncrowded and authentic ski experience. Combined with neighboring Tangram Ski Circus, it’s a paradise for free riders and families alike.
• Number Of Runs: 31
• Summit: 1,382m
• Vertical: 440m
• Ski Season: December to March
• Annual Snowfall: 10-13m
• Longest Run: 2.5km
• Average Temp: -4C
• Trail Difficulty: 30% Beginner, 35% Intermediate, 35% Advanced
• Lift System: 15 Total
Madarao Kogen boasts consistently deep, dry powder snow with 10-13m annually.
High-quality off-piste skiing, steep bowls, deep powder, and playful trees. Perfect for adventurous skiers seeking untouched lines.
Madarao delivers great value, affordable lift passes, lodging, and dining without compromising on snow quality or experience.
Madarao is family-friendly with English/Japanese ski schools, daycare, and fun non-ski activities for all ages.
A: The easiest way to get to Madarao Kogen is to travel from Tokyo to Iiyama Station by bullet train, then connect by bus, shuttle or private transfer to the resort. AMPED can organise your flights, Tokyo stopovers, rail, transfers and accommodation so the journey works smoothly with ski gear and luggage.
A: Madarao Kogen is best suited to powder lovers, families, intermediates and adventurous skiers or snowboarders wanting a more relaxed Japan ski holiday. AMPED recommends Madarao Kogen for travellers who like tree runs, ungroomed terrain, local village charm and fewer crowds than the larger international resorts.
A: AMPED recommends staying in Madarao Kogen village if you want easy access to the lifts, local lodges, restaurants and a relaxed ski-town feel.
A: Madarao Kogen has some ski-in ski-out and slope-side accommodation options, but not every property is directly on the snow. AMPED can help choose the right lodge or hotel so your location suits your ability level, budget and daily ski plans.
A: The best time to ski in Madarao Kogen is usually January to February, when the resort has its strongest powder conditions and best chance of fresh snow. March can also be a great option for quieter slopes, softer snow and a more relaxed spring-ski atmosphere.
A: Yes, Madarao Kogen suits a wide range of skiers and snowboarders. Beginners and families have gentle terrain and lesson options, intermediates get a strong mix of groomers and progression terrain, while advanced riders love the powder, ungroomed runs and tree skiing. AMPED can help match your group to the right accommodation, lessons, rentals and lift pass setup.
A: Yes, AMPED recommends pre-booking ski or snowboard lessons in Madarao Kogen, especially for beginners, children or anyone wanting English-speaking instruction. Lesson places can be limited in peak periods, so organising them early helps secure the best times and instructor options.
A: Yes, AMPED can pre-book your ski or snowboard rentals in Madarao Kogen so your equipment is arranged before you arrive. Pre-booking helps make your first ski day smoother and ensures the right gear is organised for your ability level, preferred terrain and children’s needs.
A: Yes, AMPED can organise your Madarao Kogen lift passes as part of your snow holiday package. We can also help choose whether a Madarao-only pass or a combined Madarao Kogen and Tangram pass is the best fit for your ski days and overall itinerary.
A: Yes, Madarao Kogen and Tangram are connected near the top of the mountain, and a joint mountain pass allows you to ski both areas. AMPED recommends adding Tangram if you want more terrain variety, extra groomed runs and a broader ski experience during your stay.
A: No, most travellers do not need a car in Madarao Kogen if transfers and accommodation are arranged in advance. AMPED can organise rail, bus, shuttle or private transfer options, which is usually easier than driving in snowy winter conditions.
A: AMPED recommends staying in Madarao Kogen for 4 to 6 nights. This gives you enough time to ski Madarao Kogen, add Tangram, enjoy the village atmosphere and make the most of good snow conditions without feeling rushed.
A: Madarao Kogen has a small but enjoyable dining scene, with relaxed restaurants, lodge-style meals and casual bars around the village. It is not a big nightlife resort, so AMPED recommends Madarao Kogen for travellers who prefer powder days, cosy evenings and a quieter Japan ski atmosphere.
A: Madarao Kogen is unique because it combines deep Nagano powder, excellent tree skiing, a friendly village feel and access to neighbouring Tangram on a shared pass. AMPED recommends Madarao Kogen for travellers wanting an authentic, snow-focused Japan ski holiday away from the busiest resort crowds.
