The Raicho Lodge Story
 

We discovered Madarao Kogen by chance in 2017. Exploring Japan's powder snow covered peaks together for years, we knew we had found something special. We fell in love with Madarao's unpopulated snow powdered peaks, sense of magical adventure and Japan. We knew we had found a place where we could enjoy a sense of peace - alone with nature, away from the noisy crowds. 

We knew right away that we would always come back to Madarao. We were excited to share this magical and transformational experience with old friends and new friends.

We hatched a crazy plan that we would create a small lodge and make the perfect home in the snow for everyone to discover Madarao - Raicho Lodge.

We named the lodge for the Thunder Bird of Nagano, a bird who trades its dappled brown summer shade for glorious white plumage in winter. The Raicho is the symbol of Nagano and symbolises our lodge’s constant rejuvenation, and appreciation of the beauty of winter

The Raicho Lodge is nestled at the base of Madarao, putting you on the ski lift five minutes after leaving your door, to enjoy inbound tree skiing and deep, deep powder snow at Madarao Kogen Ski Resort. For your convenience we can provide tickets for the nearby resort right at the lodge.

The varied sizes of the nine guest rooms in our lodge will accommodate your needs whether you're travelling solo or with family or friends. 

After a day in the snow, kick back by our warm fireplace with your favourite après ski tipple. From our range of both international and Japanese wines, 'Nihonshu' (Japanese sake), Japanese craft beers, gin and whiskey, there's something for everyone. Our restaurant features local produce from Nagano, Niigata and the neighbouring prefectures. Other than enjoying the snow, we want to make sure that you also enjoy all the other delights Japan has to offer.

We look forward to welcoming you this ski season!