Cafe Apres!
It's been snowing all night, you've been hammering the mountain since first lifts. You deserve a break!
But where on the mountain can you get a fantastic Aussie style coffee? Fear not, the coffee fiends at Raicho Lodge Madarao have sussed out every coffee venue from Nozawa to Myoko, and luckily right bang in the middle is Madarao. Here is our list of favorites around the village. But if you do discover a gem make sure to let us know!
Blue Sky Day?
Our favourite place to grab a hot chocolate or cappuccino on blue sky days has to be Aki's pub and cafe. Get a shot of rum in your coffee and grab a seat outside to warm up, but if rum isn't your thing you can always find a spot next to the has heater inside before heading out again. Quick shout out to Aki’s pub for being champions and stocking AllPress coffee beans! Yum!
While at Aki’s why not ask about Ski Lessons or their Back Country tours.
Aki’s uses quality Allpress beans in their coffee!
A quick coffee on the go in between runs on the front of the mountain?
Heidi's Mountain House has you covered.
Make sure you go inside post the main food and drink service area towards the front of the building and there is a small coffee cart located amongst the seating for customers. Just opposite the two main Quad Chairs and is located next to the ticket office.
Nothing beats a hot coffee on a bright blue day in the snow!
Best views of the Iiyama valley and Nozawa Onsen?
Well you need to drop into IKOI just opposite the Shaggy Yak in the center of town. Grab a seat at the large floor to ceiling windows in this cosy little restaurant and enjoy the scenery down into the valley. IKOI is also a great option for dining and apres drinks. The menu changes daily and has an excellent selection of wine.
IKOI looks out over the valley into Iiyama city, with Nozawa Onsen in the distance.
Caffine hit before heading back to the lodge?
If you need a quick caffeine hit before heading back to the lodge, drop past Chill Bar on the corner opposite the main ticket office and lift #1.
Go for the coffee, stay for the cocktails!
The Chill Bar team hard at work making their classic DATE WITH A DAIQUIRI.
What about Nozawa Onsen?
If you do find yourself over in Nozawa Onsen, possibly for the 3rd largest fire festival in Japan, hint hint (see our blog post on festivals), you can't go past a coffee from Haus St Anton. Located on the main shopping street in the centre of all the souvenir stores.
Also worth a mention is hte ski rental shop directly opposite the main Nagasaka Gondola. Grab a cappuccino to go for that long ride up the hill!