Yamadasan Ski Lodge - Madarao

The location of the lodge was great and the transport provided from the bus stop was most appreciated. The young managers were most helpful. The lodge was warm.

The lodge has become quite dated and the owners need to spend some money on it. Little things can make a difference - hooks in the ensuite bathrooms for towels, bedside lamps, a mirror in the bedroom, new covers on the doonas. The downstairs bathrooms definitely need updating and it was disappointing not to be able to use the communal baths. The breakfast was limited and surely providing some fruit besides apples would not blow the budget. Access to a kettle to boil water for tea should be an essential as previously boiled water in a thermos type jug isn't warm enough. The coffee machine was only for the staff. Excessive noise was a problem one night

Location is good (10min walk from ski lift/ticket area), heating in rooms very efficient, we appreciated the lifts from bus stop to lodge & Smokies restaurant.

Let down by small things that effect guest experience. Eg, not enough hooks to hang towels, no bedside lamps, shower not draining properly, staff drinking espresso coffee but none offered to guests, empty onsen/bath, peeling paint, etc. We appreciated the laid back nature of the owners (who had family staying at the time we were there), who were helpful enough, however, it felt at times as though we were strangers staying at a private residence rather than paying guests at a lodge. The property (apart from having new heaters installed) has not had any upgrades in the 8 years since our last visit and it shows. The communal bathing area downstairs was cold, without any bath mats and the sunken bath was empty (compared to other lodges that have lovely hot baths or onsens to soak in at the end of a days skiing). It’s a shame, as this lodge has potential - just let down by little touches that would really make a difference.

I had a wonderful stay at Yamada-san Ski Lodge! The owner was incredibly welcoming and helpful, going above and beyond by offering us a lift to the nearby ski area. The lodge itself was warm, cozy, and exceptionally comfortable, with a spotless level of cleanliness that made it feel just like home. The value for money was excellent, especially for those planning an extended ski trip. Having a nearby convenience store was an added bonus, making it easy to save on meals and essentials. I highly recommend Yamada-san Ski Lodge for anyone looking for a comfortable, affordable, and welcoming place to stay during their ski adventures. I can’t wait to return!

Friendly and helpful managers! They offered us dinner when we arrived at Madarao on 1 Jan when all restaurants were closed down for the new year. Grateful for the warmth and help they’ve provided us!

Bathroom is on the colder side! Would suggest adding a bathroom mat to keep guests’ feet warm during winter.

Breakfast was yum. The location is awesome, specially for winters. Had an amazing stay here. The hosts are great too.

Comfortable, home-like feel. Great staff who were very helpful and accommodating. Very close to ski lifts. Drying racks in the rooms are very helpful for wet gear. Breakfast is very good.

Breakfast was great, lots of choice and even had a cooked hot breakfast. Staff went out of their way with their service.