Lodge Christmas Rose ZAO

We spent four days at Christmas Rose Zao for a snowboarding trip, and it's a cosy little lodge right at the base of a ski lift. Breakfast is basic and the shared area is a bit cramped, but the owners and managers are wonderfully kind. There are no showers at the lodge. Each day they drove us to a nice onsen down the road and gave us free entry passes. They also offered rides from the bus and to dinner and other places around town. It's about a 15-minute walk from the main village areas. We'd recommend it as an authentic, memorable base for a ski holiday if that distance works for you.

The owners treated my friend and me like family. They're so kind, respectful, and always willing to help, even when they're busy. Please spend some time talking with them, they're adorable and so sweet. I had to write a review because I love this place and will definitely come back! The rooms are surprisingly roomy and feel comforting. The hall and main lobby are a little cluttered, but they're clean and well kept, and it doesn't get in the way. There's a ski lodge and restaurant across the way. In winter, bring some kind of snow shoes because the roads are unforgiving. Each room has a small TV, though we were out so much we didn't use ours. If you don't know how to switch it on, you can ask the owners. And the blankets! So soft, comforting, and warm, they're the best.

The rooms had what we needed, with plenty of space, high ceilings, comfortable mattresses, and feather blankets. Breakfast was simple but filling, and they also packed snacks for the day. The owners noticed what we liked and adjusted breakfast to suit us. Tea and coffee were always free. Christmas rose is right by a ski lift. The owners are incredibly kind and helped us get wherever we needed to go. They also gave us daily onsen tickets and a discount at a great rental shop. We had an amazing stay and can only recommend it.

We arrived a day earlier than expected because our travel agent had trouble updating the booking. The hosts kindly got a room ready for us at the last minute. They also suggested a great ramen restaurant and offered shuttle rides around town for guests. You can ski in and out to the lift, and the onsen is a short walk or shuttle ride away. This isn't a luxury hotel by US standards, and the place has adventurous hostel vibes. For the price, service, and location, I'd happily stay again and again.