An Authentic Alpine Ski Lodge on One of Japan's Premier Slopes

The peak of comfort just steps from Mount Zao's breathtaking ski trails

The family-operated Lodge Scole is the perfect intimate escape for a snowy ski break in the mountains of eastern Yamagata. Established by the Ojima family in 1973, the lodge was inspired by the couple’s visit to the Alps. Upon returning to Japan, they decided to recreate the Alpine mountain stay experience in Zao Onsen’s popular ski zone.

Within minutes of the hotel are some of Zao Onsen’s best ski areas. Apart from excellent resorts and runs, this is also the home of the region’s famous juhyo, or snow monsters. These are trees covered in windblown snow and ice, forming huge shapes that can look like an army of white monsters. On weekends, visitors can request an English-speaking guide to steer them around the slopes. When you’re ready to take a break from skiing, the hotel offers a kokeshi doll crafting experience where you can paint your own wooden doll, a traditional style of this region.

Visitors looking to travel with their beloved pets will be happy to know that Lodge Scole warmly welcomes dogs both large and small.

Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Yamagata Shinkansen to Yamagata Station (about two hours, 45 minutes), then take the bus to the Zao Onsen bus terminal (about 40 minutes). The hotel is about a seven-minute walk from the terminal.

Zao Onsen Ski Resort Lodge Scole