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Perched above JR Iiyama Station, Madarao Kogen is the fifth major resort in the Shinshu Nagano Area, comprising Madarao Kogen and Tangram Ski Circus. Recent foreign investment has revitalized the resort, with plans for further development.
A pioneer in side-country skiing, Madarao Kogen strategically culled trees to create accessible off-piste terrain. Tangram Ski Circus has also embraced tree skiing in recent years. While each resort can be enjoyed separately, a combined lift pass allows for full exploration.
Positioned between Nozawa Onsen and Myoko Kogen, Madarao Kogen serves as an ideal base for day trips to these resorts. Ski-in/ski-out accommodations are available at both resorts, alongside various nearby lodging options.
Staying within walking distance of the slopes or booking accommodations with shuttle services is highly recommended when visiting Madarao, as the area lacks regular day or night shuttle options. Unlike larger resorts, Madarao doesn’t offer a public transportation network within the village, making it difficult to get around without prior arrangements.
No local taxis operate directly in Madarao Kogen. To get a taxi, you’ll need to call one from Iiyama Station, the nearest transport hub. Iiyama Kanko Hire and Nagano Kotsu Taxi both provide service from the station to Madarao, but winter conditions and high demand often mean a 30-minute wait.
To avoid transport issues, plan ahead by choosing ski-in/ski-out lodging, staying somewhere that offers guest shuttles, or arranging private transfers in advance.
Madarao has no supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, post office, or rental car services. However, you can find all these amenities in Iiyama City, just 20–30 minutes away.
For transportation flexibility, book rental cars at Iiyama Station through Eki Renta-Car or Nissan Renta-Car. Make reservations in advance, as availability is limited. You must have an international driver’s license—no exceptions. You can only drive 9-seater vehicles with a standard international license; larger vans require a heavy vehicle certification.
For local help, visit the Madarao Kogen Tourist Association inside the Yama-no-Ie building, open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you need ski or snowboard rentals, ask your accommodation in advance to arrange them.
Madarao Kogen has no ATMs or money exchange facilities. The closest ATMs are in Iiyama City, about 25 minutes away by car, at Lawson and Seven Eleven convenience stores on Route 97.
The Iiyama Post Office also has an international ATM, but with limited hours—closing at 7:00 PM on weekdays and 5:00 PM on weekends and public holidays.
Carry enough cash for your entire stay from the time you leave the airport.
Madarao Kogen has no hospitals or clinics. In emergencies, ambulances transfer patients to Iiyama Red Cross Hospital (30 min), Hokushin General Hospital (35 min), or Nagano Shimin Hospital (45–50 min). The destination is determined en route based on hospital availability.
For severe cases, an emergency helicopter transports patients to Nagano Red Cross Hospital in 10 minutes.
For non-emergency medical issues, the closest hospital is Iiyama Red Cross Hospital, a 5-minute walk from JR Iiyama Station. Open weekdays from 8:30 AM, doctors vary in English proficiency but can provide basic assessments and diagnoses.
