SKI & SNOWBOARD RENTALS 

LOCATED 2-MINUTES FROM NAMAZU LODGE  

AT 3335-5 FURUMI, SHINANO MACHI, NAGANO 389-1302 

Location: 1101-123 Tarumoto, Myōkō / Madarao area, Niigata (389-2261) 

Ski Hire Madarao

Offers: Standard rental gear; easy access being near the lifts & village. 

Ski Hire Madarao

Why to consider: Budget-friendly option.

Location: At the base of the resort, beside the Madarao Kogen Hotel. 

Offers: Standard sets for adults & kids, as well as high-grade/powder skis (“Powder Station”). 

Why it’s good: Run by the resort itself — convenient one-stop for gear & support.

A boutique lodge Chill Madarao operates this ski/snowboard rental service right on Madarao Mountain. They pride themselves on near-new equipment and a full range of regular, performance, and powder skis/boards (brands like Elan, Volkl, Jones, etc.). Offers adult and child gear, plus helmets, boots, and even avalanche safety gear. Guests not staying at Chill can still rent here, and they even offer a free “ski valet” – store your gear by the slopes overnight instead of hauling it back to your hotel.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~15 km

Phone: 0269-67-0470 (Winter, Dec–Mar)

Website: chillmadarao.com

Location: Adjacent to Madarao Mountain Resort’s #1 Lift. 

Offers: Wide range of high-performance skis & snowboards (including powder/all-mountain), free helmet rental included. Accessories and tuning services too. .

A charming Italian restaurant nestled on the shores of Lake Nojiri. 

Funagoya’s terrace seating offers beautiful lake views (especially lovely on a sunny winter afternoon). The chef trained in Northern Italy; the menu features around six types of pasta – the red snow crab tomato pasta is especially popular. Appetizers are artfully presented and draw admiration. 

For lunch, you can get a set including an appetizer (add dessert and a drink for +¥580)]. Friendly service, free Wi-Fi, and a cozy atmosphere make this a great spot for a special meal.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~8 km

Phone: 026-258-2462

Website: (Menu: in Japanese) 

A hidden gem izakaya in Shinano-machi offering authentic Japanese pub-style dining. Open only in the evenings (around 18:00–24:00), it’s run by a friendly owner who trained for 10 years in Kyoto’s izakaya scene[31]. The daily-changing menu features fresh seasonal ingredients – from superb chicken karaage (fried chicken) to sashimi and even basashi (horse sashimi). Don’t miss the tamago zōsui (egg and rice soup), a soul-warming bowl perfect for a cold night. They also carry local Hokushin region sake and shōchū, which pair wonderfully with the dishes. This cozy spot is Japanese home cooking at its finest. (Note: Small venue – calling ahead is wise.)

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~4 km

Phone: 026-476-2265 (evenings)

Guest House LAMP features a popular restaurant open to the public (you don’t have to be a guest to dine). It’s known for a relaxed, rustic vibe and uses fresh local Shinano produce in creative ways. By day, LAMP serves excellent burgers – their signature “NOJIRI Burger” packs juicy local beef patty and melted cheese[38]. At night, the menu offers hearty meat and vegetable dishes, homemade pickles, and local sake. There’s a cozy bar counter, sofas, and even Japanese-style seating, so you can unwind apres-ski with craft beer or hot cocoa.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~6 km

Phone: 026-258-2978

Website: lampinc.co.jp/nojiriko

A beloved soba noodle restaurant near Kurohime Station, operating for many years. Shinanoya makes their buckwheat noodles in-house, offering an authentic taste of Shinshu (Nagano) soba at very reasonable prices. It’s a lunch-only spot (open ~11:00–14:00) popular with locals – expect hearty soba sets and rice bowl combos that satisfy hungry skiers. The atmosphere is no-frills and homey. If you’re looking for a quick, warming bowl of noodles after visiting the Kurohime area or on your way back from the slopes, this is the place.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~4 km

Phone: 026-255-6433

A 20-year-old institution in Shinano-machi, Booze Shelter is a suave, cozy nightspot with a jazz soul. The owner spins classic jazz – from Charlie Parker to Louis Armstrong – giving the bar a warm, bluesy ambiance. They serve a mix of Western-style dishes: standout snacks include the fried Camembert cheese wheel topped with nuts and honey, served with garlic baguette – an unexpectedly delicious indulgence. Other bites like fried chicken breast, spaghetti, sausages, and mixed nuts complement a broad selection of drinks (rum, tequila, Scotch, plus Japanese beers and whiskeys). With its wood-paneled interior and friendly vibe, Booze Shelter is an unexpected surprise in such a small town – a perfect place to spend a snowed-in evening.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~4 km

Phone: 026-255-6240

Hours: ~18:00–24:00 (closed Mon–Tue)

A popular Australian-owned cafe by day and bar by night in Akakura Onsen. Full Circle is known for proper espresso coffee in the morning and a lazy brunch for those sleeping in. Come evening, it transitions into a bar with delicious hot snacks (try their poutine and wings) and an extensive drinks menu. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, with friendly staff and often guest DJs spinning on certain nights. Full Circle prides itself on welcoming everyone “any time of the day.” It’s a great first stop for après-ski or a final stop for a nightcap.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~18 km

Phone: 080-4433-3211

Hours: 8:00–late (7 days in winter)

A small, tucked-away bar on a side street in Akakura, known for friendly vibes and late-night revelry. “Love Bar” (often just called the Shot Bar) starts the evening mellow and inexpensive – local craft beers on tap, classic cocktails, and of course shots – then often turns into a dance party as the night progresses. The Japanese host welcomes everyone, and it’s common to see ski instructors, locals, and travelers mingling here. If you’re looking to experience a bit of Japanese small-town nightlife (and maybe show off some moves or karaoke skills), Love Bar is the spot.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~18 km

Phone: 090-2126-4214

Hours: ~20:00 until late (2am+)

Popcorn is a Japanese-run bar on Akakura’s main street, featuring a relaxed pub atmosphere. It’s spacious for a ski town bar and even has pool tables. True to its name, they serve free popcorn to snack on while you play billiards or darts. Open most of the night, Popcorn sometimes hosts special DJ events – when they do, it can draw a big crowd and turn into a fun party. On regular nights, it’s more low-key – a good place to chat with locals, shoot pool, and unwind. Family-friendly early in the evening too.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~18 km

Phone: (none – walk-in only)

Hours: 19:00–late (daily in winter)

A foreigner-friendly basement bar located under a lodge in Akakura, Jack’s Bar is the go-to après spot for many Myoko skiers. It has a relaxed vibe with a mix of couches and bar seating. Jack’s offers fun weekly events like trivia nights, karaoke sessions, and sometimes live music or a DJ. There’s a dartboard and plenty of social games to keep things lively. The menu has tasty bar food (burgers, wings, etc.) if you want to make a casual dinner of it. Friendly staff (mostly English-speaking) and a welcoming international crowd. A great place to start your night – and you might end up staying till last call!

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~18 km

Phone: 0255-87-2126

Hours: 17:00–24:00 (later on busy nights)

The 7-Eleven on Route 18 in Furumi (near Shinano-machi center) is surprisingly handy – it has a sit-down area where you can eat meals from the hot food case (e.g. meat buns, fried chicken) or bakery items fresh from the store oven. They also brew decent drip coffee on the spot. Grab a rice ball (onigiri) or a ham and egg sandwich and coffee for under ¥500. It’s open 24/7, so if you’re up early to catch first lifts or arriving late, you can always count on it. Bonus: the ATM and vending machines here are a lifesaver.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~3 km

Hours: 24 hours (café seating available 7:00–22:00)

Akakura Cafe is renowned for serving the best coffee in Myoko (yes, they have real espresso!). Located right on Akakura’s main street, it’s perfect for grabbing breakfast on the way to the ski lifts. They offer Western-style breakfast options like eggs and bacon on toast, pancakes, and even smashed avo with poached eggs – a nod to Australian visitors. Fresh-baked cookies, pastries, and matcha lattes are also on the menu. The atmosphere is bright and cozy; you can warm up with a latte and watch the snow outside. In the late afternoon, Akakura Cafe also doubles as an apres spot – you can stop in on the way home for a whisky or local gin as they transition to bar service.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~18 km

Hours: 7:30–17:00 (daily in ski season)

Phone: 0255-77-4828

By morning, Full Circle is a laid-back breakfast cafe. Recommended for its “full breakfast” platters (you can get eggs, bacon, toast, tomatoes – a proper fry-up) and Australian-sourced coffee. They also do great smoothie bowls and have vegetarian options. A perfect spot if you’re craving a familiar Western breakfast or a mid-morning brunch. Free Wi-Fi and plenty of seating make it easy to linger.

Distance: ~18 km (Akakura)

Hours: 8:00–late (breakfast service from opening until ~11:00).

Housed in a partially renovated 130-year-old ryokan overlooking Lake Nojiri, Kohaku Terrace is a unique cafe offering all-you-can-eat oven pizza in a retro setting. The interior features a vintage jukebox playing Showa-era tunes, creating a nostalgic mood. They usually have at least 8 kinds of pizza available – from classic homemade tomato sauce pizza to quirky options like keema curry pizza[81]. It’s open for an early “pizza brunch” or lunch (11:00–15:00). Enjoy an endless pizza buffet while gazing at Lake Nojiri’s winter scenery – a truly memorable experience. (In winter, check ahead as hours may be limited on very snowy days.)

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~8 km

Phone: 026-217-1063

A tranquil lake surrounded by mountains, Lake Nojiri is gorgeous year-round. In winter, it offers magical views of Mt. Kurohime and Mt. Myoko, often snow-capped and reflected in the lake’s surface. A tiny island called Biwa Island sits near the lake’s center, home to the historic Uga Shrine which is associated with prosperity and good fortune. While the summer brings swimming and boating, winter is quieter – though sightseeing boat cruises do operate on some winter days, providing a 30–40 minute tour for about ¥1,000–¥1,500 (check schedules, as operations depend on weather). Even from the shore, the views at sunrise and sunset can be stunning – the sky turns painting-like hues of orange and pink over the water. If you fancy local history, the Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum on the south shore exhibits fossils of a prehistoric elephant found here. Or, try wakasa-gi (smelt) ice fishing on the lake when it’s sufficiently frozen – locals set up tent huts on the ice for a unique experience.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~5 km to the lakeshore

A small, serene pond in the Myoko Highlands, known for its mirror-like reflection of Mt. Myoko on clear days. In winter the pond may freeze and be blanketed in snow, but walking the short trail around it is still beautiful and peaceful. A boardwalk and viewing platform make it easy to enjoy the scenery. On a sunny day, you’ll see the hulking white peak of Myoko towering above the forest – a great photo spot. Imori Pond is near the Ikenotaira Onsen area, which means you can combine a visit with a soak in an onsen afterward (many day-use hot springs nearby). The pond area also has the Imori-ike Nature Visitor Center where you can learn about local flora/fauna. Tip: There’s a famous soba shop, Imori-ike Fujiya, right by the pond, but it closes in deep winter. Instead, warm up with hot cocoa at the small café in the visitor center.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~12 km

Access: Car or taxi (about 20 minutes). Roads are plowed regularly. The walking path is usually trodden down by visitors, but consider wearing snow boots or snowshoes after heavy snowfall.

A quirky museum dedicated to children’s fairy tales and the author Ishizaka Yōko, set on the Kurohime Plateau. The architecture itself looks like something from a storybook, and inside you’ll find exhibits of illustrated fairy tales, including works by world-famous authors and a section on Dora the Explorer (a character beloved in Japan). In winter, the museum grounds are often used for snow play – they sometimes build snow sculptures or mini igloos if conditions permit. Even if the flower gardens are dormant, the sight of the European-style building against the snowy backdrop of Kurohime Mountain is picturesque. Right next door is the Kurohime “Dowa no Mori” Gallery, another small hall celebrating fairy tales and folklore. It’s a charming cultural stop, especially for families or if you love storybook art.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~7 km

Hours: 9:30–17:00 (Closed Tuesdays; closed Dec–Mar except for special winter events) – check ahead, as deep winter hours can be limited.

This small museum in Shinano is dedicated to Kobayashi Issa, one of Japan’s great haiku poets who lived in this region. The museum (also called Shinanomachi Issa Museum) displays Issa’s writings, calligraphy, and personal items. It’s a great peek into Edo-period life and literature. The curators have English translations for many haiku, and you’ll gain insight into how Issa found beauty in the snowy, mountainous landscape – reading his winter haiku while you’re literally in a snowy landscape is quite special. The museum building is a traditional Japanese house, and just outside you can also see the Issa’s Birthplace (a preserved cottage) and a tranquil garden. In winter the garden is snowy, but they keep paths cleared. If you’re a culture buff or need an indoor break, this is a peaceful and inspiring stop.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~9 km

Hours: 9:00–17:00 (Closed Mondays in winter)

Known as “Earthquake Waterfall” for its thundering roar, Naena Taki is a 55-meter waterfall in a basalt gorge on the edge of Myoko. In winter, Naena Falls partially freezes, creating dramatic icy drapery alongside flowing water. The hike in is short (about 500 m from the parking area) but can be adventurous in deep snow – wear good boots or snowshoes. You’ll cross a suspension bridge over a river, often surrounded by snowy pine trees – a real-life Narnia scene. The falls themselves rumble loudly in spring, but in winter it’s a more muted sound due to ice – yet after heavy rain or a thaw, you’ll still feel the ground shake a bit. There’s a small observation deck where you can safely view the cascade. This spot is part of the Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park. Be cautious of falling icicles on warmer days. After visiting, you can warm up at a nearby onsen – the famed Tsubame Onsen and Seki Onsen are not far (both have outdoor hot springs in the snow).

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~15 km

Access: The falls are off Route 39, a 30-minute drive. The road is plowed but can be snowy/icy – 4WD or snow tires recommended.

During the Edo period, the road through Shinano was a major highway. At Sekikawa, near Lake Nojiri, there was an official checkpoint (sekisho) where travelers, especially women, were monitored entering/exiting the Nagano domain. Today a small museum marks the site. The Sekikawa Checkpoint Museum has a reconstructed gate and guardhouse, plus displays of old travel permits, samurai armor, and tools used by officials. It’s a fascinating slice of local history that shows how travel in feudal Japan wasn’t so free – the shogunate strictly controlled movement. The staff can explain (in Japanese, sometimes simple English) how people would attempt to smuggle goods or how the checkpoint worked. Outside, you can stroll a short preserved section of the old road. In winter, the museum is quiet but open; the checkpoint gate in the snow makes for a cool photo of “old Japan.” Combine this with the nearby Issa Museum or Lake Nojiri Museum for a mini historical tour.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~6 km

Hours: 9:00–16:30 (closed Mondays; closed Dec–Feb except by reservation)

Tangram Ski Circus (Nagano side) and Madarao Kogen (Niigata side) together form a bowl of awesome terrain. Namazu Lodge is ski-in/ski-out to Tangram’s lifts – meaning you have direct access! Tangram has 14 courses (mostly gentle to intermediate) and is famed for its quality powder on northwest-facing slopes. Madarao, connected at the summit, has 30 courses and a reputation for gladed tree skiing – they deliberately leave many tree areas ungroomed for powder hounds. Both resorts are family-friendly too, with kids’ snow parks and sledding areas. Madarao’s sidecountry (“Powder Wave”, etc.) is a must for advanced riders. Elevation: ~1,320m top at Tangram. Amenities: Tangram has a hotel at the base (with restaurants, an indoor pool, and onsen), plus rental shops. Madarao has a quaint resort base with lodges, cafes, and even a few craft beer bars.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: Tangram lifts – on your doorstep (0 km); Madarao Kogen base – ~9 km by road (or ski via Tangram summit).

Phone: Tangram: 026-258-3511; Madarao: 0269-64-3214

Website: tangram.jp (Eng), madarao.jp

Your “neighborhood” ski hill, Kurohime Snow Park is just down the road. It’s known for gentle, wide runs (45% beginner) perfect for novices and kids. The resort is themed around children: there’s a Kids’ Park with sleds and tubing, and even a Snow Dog Area where you can bring your dog to play in the snow or ride select lifts together! Kurohime has about 13 courses – nothing too steep, though there is one ungroomed “expert” run and a small terrain park. One unique feature: ski with your dog on certain trails. Also, a new on-slope cabin accommodation “Doggo Village” opened, catering to dog owners. The base has a rest house serving local fare (try the Shinano soba noodles). It’s not a big mountain, but it’s uncrowded and charming. Night skiing is not offered, so evenings are quiet.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~10 km (15 min drive)

Phone: 026-255-3171

Website: kurohime-kogen.co.jp/snow

• Akakura Onsen Ski Area: Historic resort with over 17 lifts and a quaint onsen village at its base. Varied terrain – gentle slopes near base for beginners, steeper runs and tree areas up high. Night skiing here is magical (the mountain is lit until 9pm on some runs). The village has many restaurants/bars (some listed above) giving a fun aprés scene.

• Akakura Kanko Ski Resort (Akakan): Interconnected with Akakura Onsen (you can buy a joint ticket). Known for longer, wide-groomed runs and the highest elevations in Myoko (~1,500m). Great views toward the valley. Akakan’s Hotel has a famous panorama cafe at the summit. Advanced skiers enjoy the ungroomed “Hotel A” run – a powder bowl when fresh.

• Ikenotaira Onsen Ski Resort: Mellow and wide area ideal for beginners and intermediates. They have a fantastic kids’ park and some well-known terrain park features for freestyle riders. The vertical isn’t huge, but the runs are very wide, offering a relaxed atmosphere. Also famous for its mogul course if you like bumps.

• Myoko Suginohara: Boasts one of the longest runs in Japan (8.5 km from summit to base) and the highest ski area in Myoko (top at 1,855m). Suginohara is beloved by intermediate and advanced skiers – it has lengthy groomers and also expansive off-piste tree areas accessed via lift (though officially off-piste is at your risk). On a clear day, you get stunning views of Lake Nojiri below. The lower half is gentle; the upper mountain has steeper pitches and fantastic powder stashes. Note: No night skiing; it’s all about long daytime runs.

Each of these has its own character, and all receive heavy snowfall (Myoko often gets 13+ meters of snow in a season!). If you have a car or don’t mind a short shuttle, it’s well worth sampling a day at each. A Myoko joint shuttle bus runs between Akakura and Suginohara/Ikenotaira daily in winter.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: 15–20 km (Akakura areas ~18 km, Suginohara ~15 km, Ikenotaira ~13 km). Drive ~25 minutes.

A tiny, old-school ski hill famed for ridiculous snowfall and steep tree runs. Seki Onsen is essentially two lifts serving all ungroomed terrain – a paradise for powder lovers. They intentionally do not groom after snow, so on a deep day you’ll be in waist-deep fluff. It’s recommended only for advanced skiers/boarders who are comfortable in trees and deep snow. No real facilities besides a basic lodge. Seki Onsen village is an authentic Edo-period hot spring hamlet – worth visiting to see the traditional buildings and perhaps do onsen-hopping (their mineral-rich hot springs are some of the best). Note: Seki Onsen Ski may close in low-snow periods, but that’s rare given how much snow Myoko gets.

Distance from Namazu Lodge: ~20 km (just at our radius limit, ~35 min drive)