This is what it looks like at NORTHSTAR Loft in the winter. Depending on the year we can get many meters of snow accumilation. At NORTHSTAR we offer “home-like” accomodations for you to relax as you are. Check out below for information on how to experience your time in Norikura Kogen, part of the Northern Japan National Park.
Kamikochi Snowshoe Tours from your doorstep
NORTHSTAR offers a number of tours to Kamikochi and also around the Norikura area. Norikura is at an elavation of 1500m and becomes a snowy paradise in the winters. There are frozen waterfalls and ponds and the fluffy snow that Japan is known for. Checkout out our website HERE for more information on Snowshoe Tours for your stay in Norikura.
Click HERE for “What to Wear” during Snowshoe Hiking Tours
Ski Resort- just 5 minutes away
Mt. Norikura Ski Resort is just a 3 minute drive (7 minutes walk) from NORTHSTAR Loft. As it is part of the Northern Japan Alps, the mountain recieves a lot of snow. The Sea of Japan brings cold and soft snow that is the famous Powder Snow, or “Japow.” It is a small and homey resort with slopes for beginners and advanced riders. There is also a sledding hill perfect for after your skiing/snowboarding adventures. The best part is that there are no lines for the lift and you don’t have to expect large crowds.
If you are new to skiing/snowboarding we would recommend taking lessons. NORTHSTAR offers lessons with fully fluent English instructors. Our expereinced instructors can help you work on your riding according to your athletic abilities. Whether it is your very first time or not, we can accommodate for all levels of riding.
Enjoy the Comforts of Home- NORTHSTAR Loft
We want you to be at Home in Norikura. The NORTHSTAR Loft Condominiums are fully equipped apartments for you to stay as long as you like. The apartments include a full kitchen, living room, TV, dining room, bath, toilet, laundry machine, and much more. Our apartments can sleep 4-6 people and is best to enjoy with close family and friends.
With the full kitchen you can cook and eat with more freedom. In the winters we would recommend making “hot pot” or Nabe as it is easy, delicious, and warm. This is meal cooked all in one pot and you can add local vegetables and meats of your choice. Make sure to stop at the local grocery store before coming up to Norikura.
Click HERE for more information regarding Restaurants and Grocery in Norikura.
Snow, snow and more snow
Even if you don’t Ski, Snowboard, or snowshoe, there are still so many ways to enjoy and explore during your stay at NORTHSTAR Loft. There is a large yard in front of NORTHSTAR Loft to build snowman, igloos, and explore. Feel free to use the sleds but don’t sled into the river!
If the weather is bad or too cold there is always the option to use the indoor bouldering wall inside of the Loft. It is free to use for lodging guests and there is even climbing shoes for all sizes.
Norikura Onsen Hotsprings
After a long day in the snow, there is nothing more relaxing than a warm bath at the local hotspring. Norikura is known for having excellent quality hotsprings. The hotspring water is sulfer based and has a strong fragrance but is very good for the body. Just next door to NORTHSTAR Loft is a local public hotspring called Yukemurikan (湯けむり館). Feel free to use the discount coupon provided in your rooms.
Join us at NORTHSTAR Loft for your winter adventures and lodging. Experience life in the Northern Japan Alps as your home away from home.
Click HERE for Reservations and best rates for NORTHSTAR Loft Condominiums.