Looking for a solid home base in Nagano’s ski country? This modern lodge in Iiyama hits the sweet spot, perched just steps from Ryuoo Ski Park’s powdery slopes. My recent stay revealed comfortable rooms in both Western and Japanese styles, plus three surprisingly good restaurants dishing up everything from local specialties to international comfort food. The public bath is a treat after a day on the slopes, and the rental shop makes skiing hassle-free.
The downsides? The on-site restaurants close relatively early (around 8 PM), which can be limiting if you’re planning late returns from exploring. Also, English signage is minimal in some areas of the property.
This place is tailor-made for ski enthusiasts and families who want easy slope access without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors to Japan who appreciate having English-speaking staff to help navigate local customs and transportation. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the good value, considering the location and amenities.
Sleep Rating: ★★★☆☆
We included this hotel in the 10 must-visit hotels in Madarao Mountain Resort, Iiyama.
Good To Know
- Situated in Iiyama, Nagano, near ski lifts and natural/cultural attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
- Offers a variety of accommodation options, including Western, Japanese, twin, and family rooms, catering to diverse guest needs.
- Features three on-site restaurants serving international, American, and Japanese cuisine, ensuring culinary satisfaction for guests.
- Provides thoughtful amenities such as a shared lounge, bar, public bath, and hot spring bath, enhancing the overall guest experience.
- Highly rated by guests for its exceptional location, excellent service, and free WiFi, with an overall score of 8.0/10.
Location and Surroundings
Located in the picturesque town of Iiyama, Nagano, Xplore by Active Life enjoys a prime position within walking distance of various dining and shopping options, as well as the ski lifts that provide access to the nearby Ryuoo Ski Park.
Rated 9.1/10 by guests for its exceptional location, the hotel is conveniently situated, allowing visitors to easily explore the surrounding attractions.
Just 19 miles away is the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park, while the historic Zenkoji Temple is a 20-mile drive from the property.
With its strategic location, Xplore by Active Life offers guests the perfect base to discover the natural wonders and cultural treasures of the Nagano region.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
With a score of 8.0/10 based on 27 reviews, Xplore by Active Life has received positive feedback from its guests. Guests praised the hotel’s excellent staff (9.4), cleanliness (8.1), comfort (8.2), and free WiFi (10). Favorable comments highlighted the quality of breakfast, cleanliness, and proximity to ski facilities.
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.4 |
| Cleanliness | 8.1 |
| Comfort | 8.2 |
| Free WiFi | 10.0 |
The hotel’s convenient location, friendly service, and comfortable accommodations have contributed to its high ratings among visitors.
Accommodation Options
Xplore by Active Life offers a range of accommodation options to suit different guest needs. Guests can choose from Western-style rooms, Japanese-style rooms, twin rooms, and family rooms.
All rooms feature convenient amenities like flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and free toiletries. Some rooms even offer stunning mountain views.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and check-out is from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. While cribs and extra beds aren’t available, children of all ages are welcome, though those 7 and above are charged as adults.
Pets aren’t allowed, and the minimum check-in age is 18.
Room Features and Amenities
Rooms at Xplore by Active Life feature a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and free toiletries in their accommodations. Some rooms even offer stunning mountain views.
| Room Type | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Western-style | Flat-screen TV, Electric Kettle, Free Toiletries |
| Japanese-style | Flat-screen TV, Electric Kettle, Free Toiletries |
| Twin | Flat-screen TV, Electric Kettle, Free Toiletries |
| Family | Flat-screen TV, Electric Kettle, Free Toiletries |
Whether you’re looking for a Western or Japanese-style room, Xplore by Active Life has options to suit your preferences and ensure a comfortable stay.
Dining and Cuisine
Guests at Xplore by Active Life can indulge in a variety of dining options on-site.
The hotel features three restaurants serving international, American, and Japanese cuisine. Travelers can savor local and global flavors, from traditional Japanese dishes to Western favorites.
Whether it’s a hearty breakfast, a casual lunch, or a delectable dinner, guests have ample choices to satisfy their culinary cravings.
The on-site bar also provides a cozy setting for evening drinks and socializing.
With its diverse dining offerings, Xplore by Active Life ensures guests can enjoy a fulfilling gastronomic experience during their stay.
Facilities and Services
Along With its diverse dining offerings, Xplore by Active Life provides guests with an array of facilities and services to enhance their stay.
Guests can enjoy the hotel’s shared lounge, bar, and public bath and hot spring bath. The property also offers free WiFi throughout, making it easy for visitors to stay connected.
For those hitting the slopes, the hotel provides ski equipment rental and ski school services, ensuring a seamless ski experience.
Families will appreciate the availability of family rooms.
With its convenient amenities and thoughtful services, Xplore by Active Life caters to the needs of its diverse clientele.
Policies and Regulations
Children of all ages are welcome at Xplore by Active Life, though guests aged 7 and above are charged adult rates.
Cribs and extra beds aren’t available. Pets aren’t allowed, and the minimum check-in age is 18. Guests must provide a photo ID and credit card upon arrival.
Special requests are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, while check-out is from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
The hotel policies are straightforward, ensuring a smooth stay for all guests.
Getting There and Accessibility
Reaching Xplore by Active Life is a breeze. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and ski lifts, making it easily accessible for guests.
Travelers can take advantage of the hotel’s central location to explore the surrounding attractions, including Ryuoo Ski Park, Jigokudani Monkey Park, and Zenkoji Temple, all within a short driving distance.
The hotel’s location in Iiyama, Nagano, Japan, provides easy access to the region’s renowned ski resorts and natural wonders. Plus, the hotel offers ski equipment rental and ski school services, catering to the needs of winter sports enthusiasts.
With its prime location and convenient amenities, Xplore by Active Life ensures a seamless and enjoyable stay for its guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Airport Shuttle Service Provided by the Hotel?
The hotel does not provide an airport shuttle service. Guests will need to arrange their own transportation to and from the hotel, such as by taxi, rental car, or public transportation.
Does the Hotel Have a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?
The hotel does not have a fitness center or gym on-site. The amenities focus on ski facilities, restaurants, and relaxation areas like a bar, public bath, and hot spring bath.
Can Guests Book Activities or Tours Through the Hotel Concierge?
Guests can book activities and tours through the hotel concierge. The hotel offers ski equipment rental and ski school services, and it’s located near popular attractions like Ryuoo Ski Park and Jigokudani Monkey Park.
What Are the Hotel’s Designated Smoking and Non-Smoking Areas?
The hotel has designated non-smoking rooms, but there’s no mention of any specific smoking areas. Guests should check with the front desk about the hotel’s smoking policy and any designated outdoor smoking zones.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Special Packages or Promotions for Guests?
The hotel doesn’t seem to offer any special packages or promotions based on the information provided. It’s best to check the hotel’s website or contact them directly for the latest deals and offers.
The Sum Up
Xplore by Active Life offers an exceptional mountain getaway in the heart of Nagano, Japan. Boasting a prime location, the hotel provides easy access to various dining, shopping, and ski opportunities. Praised for its exceptional staff, cleanliness, and comfortable accommodations, Xplore by Active Life promises an unforgettable experience in the stunning Japanese Alps, catering to both leisure and active guests.