- Getting to Corduroy Lodge is Easy -
There Are Several Transport Options Available
Airport Transfers:
Direct airport shuttles (Myoko Shuttle or Nagano Snow Shuttle) from Haneda/Narita and select Tokyo locations take about 5.5 hours to Madarao/Akakura Myoko Kogen, followed by a short taxi ride to the lodge. Myoko Shuttle is the fastest option from Tokyo. This is a good option if you have a lot of luggage.
Train:
Take the train from Narita/Haneda to Tokyo, then the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Iiyama Station (2.5-4 hours). Luggage delivery services (like Yamato) are recommended due to limited Shinkansen space. Corduroy Lodge offers pick-up from Iiyama Station upon request.
Location & Nearby Ski Resorts
At an altitude of 900m, that’s nearly 1 kilometre above sea level, Corduroy Lodge is ideally located for accessing more than 20 ski resorts within an hour's drive, including the popular Madarao Mountain Resort and Tangram Ski Circus. These 2 resorts offer an authentic Japanese ski experience, without the large crowds and long lift lines.
Madarao & Tangram Ski Resorts: A Powder Paradise
Madarao Mountain Resort:
Madarao Mountain Resort and Tangram Ski Circus, seamlessly connected, offer a combined skiing experience unlike any other in the region. Madarao, with its 31 runs and 10 lifts spread across a 440-meter vertical drop, is a haven for powder enthusiasts. What truly sets Madarao apart is its commitment to preserving natural snow conditions, with 60% of its runs intentionally left ungroomed. This creates a veritable playground for skiers and snowboarders seeking deep powder and exhilarating off-piste adventures. The resort is also renowned for pioneering tree skiing in Japan, actively clearing areas to create designated glades, ensuring a safe and exciting experience amongst the trees. Whether you're carving through fresh powder or navigating the graded runs, Madarao offers a uniquely thrilling experience.
Tangram Ski Circus:
Tangram Ski Circus, while smaller with 14 runs and 5 lifts and a 520-meter vertical drop, complements Madarao perfectly. Its varied terrain caters to all skill levels, from gentle slopes for beginners to more challenging runs for experienced skiers. The connection between the two resorts allows you to easily explore a diverse range of terrain, maximising your time on the slopes. Together, Madarao and Tangram boast one of the largest ungroomed skiable areas in Nagano, making them a true destination for powder hounds. Beyond the groomed runs, a wealth of backcountry access awaits, promising unforgettable adventures for those seeking untracked snow. Whether you're a seasoned powder skier or simply looking to experience the magic of Japanese snow, Madarao and Tangram offer something for everyone.
Lift Passes:
You can purchase the All-Mountain Pass for full access to both Madarao and Tangram.
