Lodge Yodel

This 7 room, family-run lodge is located in walking distance from Tazawako ski area. If traveling by public transportation, head for Tazawako station. Then there is a bus that drops you off within 3 minutes of their entrance at a cost of 560¥. The bus ride is a 30 minute trip from the station to the lodge. Cost of a taxi is @ 4000 yen. The area is well known for onsen and the lodge has two onsen to use. They can be used by couples/families or by gender. You just need to put up a wooden sign when you use the facility. The lodge has shared bathrooms. The facilities are basic,clean, and good value. If you are not a Japanese speaker, the owner speaks English well and is delightfully helpful and friendly. Signage is in Japanese and English. You won’t struggle with language here. Communication prior to our stay was in English and responses were timely. The family makes a strong effort to make their guests feel at home. Arrange for meals at the lodge-breakfast and dinner-as there are no easily accessible food options in the immediate area if you travel without a car. Meals sourced local ingredients and the owner’s brother grows their rice. Ask about their background in the area-skiing and snowboarding are in their blood.