Elm Pension Madarao

Elm Pension is a cozy, budget-friendly lodge located just 300 meters from the nearest lift—Madarao’s Daiichi Lift—making it an ideal base for guests looking to hit the slopes with ease. Set in the heart of Madarao Kogen, this affordable, family-run property is just a 7-minute walk (or one-minute shuttle ride) from the Madarao Kogen ski area and village. Madarao itself is easily reached from Tokyo in just 1 hour and 40 minutes via the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Iiyama Station, followed by a 30-minute bus ride into the mountains.

The lodge offers 10 clean and comfortable guest rooms, all with Western-style beds in twin or triple layouts—no tatami rooms—making it a great fit for international travelers. While bathrooms are shared, they are well-maintained, and all toilets are modern Japanese washlets. Guests can enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner and a hearty breakfast each day, featuring locally sourced ingredients and served in the welcoming dining area.

Elm Pension is operated by a kind and experienced Japanese couple who take pride in offering warm hospitality and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking value without sacrificing comfort or location.

Madarao is famous for its deep, fluffy powder snow—affectionately known as “Madapow”—and boasts 13 thrilling ungroomed runs among its varied terrain. With unbeatable access to the slopes, a peaceful setting, and genuinely caring hosts, Elm Pension offers everything you need for a memorable snow holiday in northern Nagano—without breaking the budget.