Kuma lodge provided a fantastic experience for my first skiing trip to Japan. The location of the lodge means you only have to walk 50 meters to clip in your skis and you're away. it couldn't be closer. Also, really easy to get there with a direct bullet train from Tokyo, then short transfer. The lodge is clean, bright, with nice furniture, and some great communal spaces. The staff at the lodge were so helpful when recommending restaurants, other local amenities like onsens and other things to do in and around the area. Madarao is a great village, growing all the time with awesome skiing. You can guarantee snow! There are amazing local restaurants with traditional food and everyone seems to be super friendly. Kuma lodge is great for friends, couples and families. I have already re booked to bring my family back next yea
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Don't miss this lodge if you are looking for a great Japan experience. Right next to the main lifts so you can ski in and out with ease. The hosts, Taka and Kumi ensure your stay is fun, easy and memorable. The lodge itself is spacious with a great games area, lounge and dining room. The beds are so comfy and there is the option of an ensuite or shared bathroom. Madarao resort is fantastic with wide groomed runs, plenty of off-piste tree skiing and minimal crowds. Getting to and from Madarao is an easy bus ride after a 1.5hr shinkansen from Tokyo. The small, family feel of Kuma means you meet plenty of great people and come away with new friends. Great restaurant options as well all within walking distance and the onsen at Madarao Hotel is not to be missed.
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I've stayed at Kuma twice now and it's my absolute go-to in Japan for boarding. The well-renovated lodge is comfortable and warm and literally the closest lodge to the runs. Pretty much a 2min walk to the run or if it's been snowing enough, a short ski down the road. Aki and the owners are really friendly and help serve all your needs. Free WiFi, drying room, great comfortable beds and comfortable common areas looking directly over the mountain. TV/games room downstairs if needed for the kids. The well-stocked breakfast is a fantastic way to start the day. Madarao is an amazing resort for boarding/skiing but still quite traditional with lots of great little local restaurants serving all types of traditional Japanese food. A couple of bars and western bars now also. But its still really untouched and hardly anybody there so plenty of great runs to explore almost on your own. Would highly recommend Kuma and personally, I'll keep returning as much as possible.
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