Maruhan Jigatake Lodge

The staff seemed very friendly, and despite being deep in the mountains, the inside was comfortable. The entrances were kept closed, and there was even insect spray by the shoe lockers, which helped with my worries about bugs. I stayed during the off-season, though, and wouldn't recommend that for anyone with dust allergies. The room smelled moldy from the humidity. When I tried to use the futon in the loft, there was only one sheet, and the uncovered pillow had bloodstains that looked like they might've come from a nosebleed. That was disappointing. My allergies kicked in that day, and I couldn't sleep because I kept coughing and having a runny nose. I think mold and similar issues might not be a problem in winter, during peak season, so if I visit again I'll try then.

It was off-season, so breakfast wasn't provided. We paid 50,000 yen plus tax for five people, one child and four adults. The room was relatively clean, and there was a covered barbecue area outside as well as an indoor dining room. The shower was available from 2 PM, with rinse-in shampoo and body soap provided. It could fit up to three people. Parking held about six cars, and Jigatake Ski Resort was only a 4-5 minute walk away.

We were here as a group with a friend, and my friend was yelled at on the first day. On the second, staff shouted at him in front of other guests. It's hard to believe this kind of behavior is acceptable in the service industry. The night before our last day, we were suddenly told to check out an hour earlier. On checkout day, we then had to wait outside the facility for hours for the bus. Men were also told not to use the facility toilets and to walk a few minutes to public toilets instead. This was my first stay somewhere with a 9 AM checkout. I'll never use this facility again.

The owners seemed kind, and the food was delicious, with a nostalgic, home-cooked feel. I could get more bread at breakfast, so I was full first thing in the morning. The walls were a little thin, but I still had a comfortable stay. Kids were running around and their footsteps carried, but they looked like they were having fun, so I didn't mind.