Higashiko Holidays from AU$1,387

I knew I wanted to snowboard at Lotte Arai Resort but I read that it was in a very small town and basically only the resort buildings so i picked this spot because they offered a free shuttle to the nearby mountains. (Not Lotte though its a 40 minute drive and I had to get a separate bus. It was very easy though and the owner was able to help me figure it all out. If you do that route bring cash, it costs 2,000 jpy one way). When I arrived from Tokyo it was a complete 360 in scenery. It was snowing, quiet, calm, almost deserted like feeling but so quaint. The property was really so amazing and felt like a traditional home/experience from the interior, the traditional breakfast they served, the tatami rooms with the floor beds and hot water for tea 24/7. And of course the onsen on site. They also provide robes and directions how to use the onsen. I have tattoo's and wasn't sure I would be able to have the experience and I'm so glad I stayed at the Kofuan because I was able to go 24/7 super early in the morning or late evening to avoid people out of respect. The area around Myoko Kogen is very remote though, not many restaurants, and the 7/11 in town is a short mile away. I would definitely come back here. I didn't mind not being near a lot of food because you can buy breakfast and dinner at the property plus there was a cute local grocery store across the street I was able to try new snacks and yummy fruits at.