Alpine Villa Nozawa

The overall stay was pretty average, though I’d recommend it for younger people with kids. It has a communal feel, with shoes off indoors and shared spaces like the downstairs fireplace and bathrooms. It’s very Australian-friendly, which might feel odd if you’re not Australian, as I’m not. Hospitality felt a grade below other parts of Japan, but was acceptable. I’d say about 80% of the other tourists were Australian, much like the town as a whole.

The common areas and hotel room were super clean. The staff were kind and helpful, and we had some great conversations with them. Thank you so much, Akira, Kei, and Saki!

We held a yoga retreat here in mid-June and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The staff were all friendly and took good care of everyone. The place was clean, well maintained, and comfortable, with a relaxed, laid-back feel. Most rooms had a classic Japanese style with tatami mats, and they were very comfortable. We had amazing views from the windows. The common area and breakfast space worked well for yoga, too. In the green season it was nice and quiet, with everything a relatively short walk away.

Our Snow Shack was self-contained, with a good-sized room and daily breakfast served in the adjoining lodge. Breakfast was simple but tasty, and the ski chairlift was an easy walk away. Staff were friendly, and it was easy to book lift passes, rentals, and lessons through the website or front desk.