Ryder's House

Our kids fell in love with Ryder, their dog and the star of the visit. Yuki and Jon looked after us so well, including rides from the station and to the supermarket, and we felt like we were visiting good friends. The new house is warm, clean, and well equipped. There are restaurants nearby, and the free shuttle to the ski slopes stops just around the corner. We were lucky to find Ryder’s house.

Jon and his wife were quick to help with anything we needed. They picked us up at the bus station, took us to the supermarket for supplies, and even drove us to ski hills farther away. The house is nicely presented and has everything you need. Two free bus stops are about a five-minute walk away, with connections to most nearby resorts, and Echoland’s center is a 15-minute walk. My one suggestion is to add fixed heating in the bedrooms. I booked Ryders House at the last minute by contacting Jon directly, and he was helpful with local tips over the phone. We had a great stay and would recommend it as a ski base.

Echoland was just what we wanted after skiing, with good food, great hospitality, and plenty of apres-ski drinks. The house is about a five-minute walk away, and getting to it from the resorts and other town centers turned out to be convenient. I’d only have wanted a ski lift right at the front door to make it easier. The location, charming renovated house, and its modern West-meets-Japan feel all worked for us. Jon spent several years renovating it, and his attention to detail shows. He explained where everything was in the well-stocked kitchen, and English labels on the Japanese appliances made them easy to use. I especially liked the microwave note about warming drinks, perfect for hot sake. Upstairs, the two bedrooms have king or Japanese double beds that can be separated, plus huge comforters. I slept soundly every night. The curtains and blackout shades kept the light out, too. Jon and Yuki are some of my favorite people I’ve met in Japan. The minimum stay is three days, but I’d suggest booking longer if you can. We barely got to explore Hakuba and wished we’d stayed more nights at Ryder’s House. Thanks for a memorable trip. And if you’re lucky, you might spot Ryder, a handsome Golden Retriever who can salute, out walking with Jon.

The house is close enough to walk to Echoland, but far enough away for a quiet night’s sleep. It’s also very central for reaching all the Hakuba Valley resorts. John and Yuki have put so much care into Ryders house, and they’re wonderful hosts. Highly recommend it.