Makinoiri Kogen is a commendable ski resort, celebrated for its exceptional snow quality that surpasses even that of Hokkaido. It offers a range of courses suitable for skiers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced, providing broad opportunities for everyone to enjoy the slopes. One of its prominent features is the accessibility of the first lift, conveniently located right in front of the ticket center.
The resort is continually improving, with anticipations of further enhancements to the hotel in the future. The staff, both at the reception and the cafeteria, are noted for their kindness, contributing to the overall delightful experience. The cafeteria serves a variety of dishes, with the medium-spicy cutlet curry being a standout favorite among visitors.
In addition to skiing, the resort's proximity to Magaku Onsen, renowned for its open-air bath, adds to the overall appeal. The resort also has a dog run, indicating its pet-friendly nature. For snowboarders, there's a permanent snowboard cross course, which is highly recommended for cross practice.
During weekdays, the resort is not overly crowded, allowing visitors to ski freely and enjoy the powder until the evening. However, the resort can get busy on weekends, particularly during ski competitions. Despite this, it maintains a peaceful ambiance, with many referring to it as their paradise.
The resort is also known for its pole training, offering dedicated facilities and lessons for this specific skill set. One can also find a connection to the neighboring Kijimadaira Ski Resort, enhancing the variety of skiing opportunities.
In terms of convenience, the location is easily accessible, close to Iiyama city, and does not require navigating through snowy slopes. Although there is some distance between the parking lot and the ticket office, Makinoiri Kogen offers an intimate, stress-free environment for skiers and snowboarders alike, making it a favored destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Despite its local nature, the resort does not compromise on quality, with delicious food options and commendable course management. It is not only a ski resort but also a place for family fun, suitable for letting small children play and learn. The high potential, north-facing ski resort is continually evolving, with high expectations for the reopened resort.
