Resource The big Myoko/Madarao/Arai thread - 2018/19
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M12 is off to scout jamboree, +1 is staying in Oz in case he needs a parent in a hurry, F20 is broke so I'm on my own for our annual January bugger-off-out-of-the-horrible-weather-in-sydney-and-go-skiing expedition. So I booked flights to Japan last night (long story - till last night bonus QF status credits were on offer, which I need to retain my silver status).
Probably heading for Myoko for starters and try to get to some of the other local resorts this time around. Maybe a few days in Hakuba as well.
Egg-bloody-zactly.
I too have spent a fortune training up a ski buddy (when she slows down enough to ski with me) who now can't afford to come skiing with me. In my case +1 expressly forbids me from subsidising her. I can accept that it's important for F20 to develop a work ethic but it sure f**s up my ski holidays.
Finally got round to watching this and had to stop myself laughing out loud too much. There were some fun stats which I’ve never heard before...is it true that at its peak there were 800(!!) resorts? And is Seki seriously the oldest resort in Japan?
The way it’s shot makes it feel like they’ve discovered this barren and now deserted spot in the middle of nowhere. Far from the realities of Myoko (Akakura) from what I’ve seen in recent years.
Got to hand it to red bull though - cinematography is definitely on point.
Maybe there were 800 at one stage but that would include tiny one lift places built by local towns.
The first place to ski at was Mt Kanaya in what is now Joetsu City. The first formal ski grounds were in Myoko Kogen so I guess they're stretching the truth to fit their narrative.
And outside this afternoon it felt like it had snowed somewhere. Was ok till late afternoon and then the temp plumuted.
Well beautiful sunny day today so I expect anything on Mt Myoko would be gone.
Lots of early bird season passes get more expensive at the end of October. If you are coming to Madarao for any length of time consider this:
Super Early Bird Season Pass
There have been a lot of American groups touring Myoko for many years. Almost threw one out onto the street for annoying patrons and staff in a restaurant. I think he was a guide, one of those popup tour groups who couldn't speak a word of Japanese apart from sumimasen. It's was getting way too crowded for a small town but dam I do like the place.
#75 Charles, A moment ago
Third time back to Myoko this Jan, as excited about the snow as I am, I'm also hanging out for the food, any recommendations on places to eat from the locals, Skichanger? on previous visit really enjoyed some of the places up near the T junction, Kei, Asagao, hoping to try Avaya this year if we can find it.
Also is our New Years Eve normally celebrated in any way in Myoko? bonfire/fireworks that sort of thing, some off the crew are keen to see in the new year in some way.
Thanks Team
There are a few more new restaurants opening this season. It really depends on what you want. But I would:
- ask where you are staying for their advice
- come and see us at Chalet Madarao if you come over to Madarao. Our restaurant will be open all day and we are genuine ski in ski out
- My altime fav in Akakura onsen is Shibata.
- For something up market check out The Address
- Check out Myosen as they are opening a restaurant this year.
- We are probably a bit out of the way but we will be doing simple dinners 3 nights a week at Chalet Myoko. The restaurant area of the lodge is actually a really nice space with high ceilings, nice bar and a fire.
#7 - http://myokokogen.net/twelve-things-to-do-in-myoko-kogen/ Ask your lodge to drop you down. It's me driving in the first vid below. However it's walkable from anywhere in the village or Kanko area.
New Years Eve celebration is at the local shrine. Line up to ring the bells and get a shot of sake.
Inside the temple if you see a bald old gaijin drinking with the locals, that's probably me.
It's Boganvista at Skate Bar and a couple of other places if that's your go.
Also ask your lodge what they recommend in the way of restaurants. My fav is Harumi on the main street. I also go to Shibata and Koyama a bit because it's great simple food (and they also happen to be good friends).
Seeking more advice that I cant find on google, other than using the Ski shuttle bus will i be able to hire a driver with an 8 seater type vehicle to take my group of 8 people to say Sugi or Tangram for day trips while we are in Myoko? we would prefer to pay the extra and be collected from our hotel and driven to the other resorts.
Great image of Mt. Myoko this morning as the sun hits it, looks like its erupting. Good to see things turning white again.
Bugger, that's just about all gone nowGreat image of Mt. Myoko this morning as the sun hits it, looks like its erupting. Good to see things turning white again.
We have had snow the last 2 mornings at Madarao but today was a bit warmer and most of it has melted.
This season just past we found that credit cards were much more accepted for payment than 2 years earlier (eg Kanko lift tickets sales, many restaurants).
WIll I need much cash in Madarao for things like lift tickets, ski hire, supermarket or is Visa widely accepted?
Lift tickets, no CC is ok. Once the restaurant guide comes out you will know who takes CCs. There is no supermarket. Ski Hire should be ok on a CC. I think you will need cash for lunch on the mountain.
We depart on the 18th. Hopefully run in to each other (not literally!) on the hill.
