ANA Holiday Inn Resort Appi Kogen Hills (former Appi Hills Shirakaba no Mori )

Appi Hills Shirakaba-no-mori, formally known as Appi Grand Villa, is an affordable, comfortable and authentic alternative to its partner hotels, and provides access to all of the same luxurious facilities. Located at the foot of the slopes, it's ideally located for ski enthusiasts and, of course, offers a range of ski facilities such as drying, storage and ski equipment rentals and purchases. The staff are also more than happy to organise lessons or shuttle buses for guests to help them make the most of their holiday. Make the most of your day though - the ski entrance closes at 4 p.m.

The hotel offers two rooms; a smaller western-style room and a larger Japanese/western room that places emphasis on feeling right at home. Whatever you're looking for, the villa can cater for up to groups of five, and provides a genuine Japanese experience with tatami flooring and complimentary yukata robes to all guests for use in the hotel.

The hotel houses three restaurants, which serve fresh, local ingredients both of western, and Japanese origin that are sure to delight, but more variety is available just across the slope at the partner Hotel Appi Grand if you're looking for five-star dining. Wi-Fi access is available in the lobby but not in the hotel rooms, however the Japanese/western room features a television to keep you entertained. The Villa also houses its own gym and swimming pool for those who like to fit in a little extra exercise, and offers laundry facilities for those on extended stays.