Villa Alpen Shigakogen

We were so happy to return to Villa Alpen during our family holiday to Japan in January 2025. Villa Alpen is a true ski-in ski-out lodge. It is conveniently located in Sun Valley, and is a short walk from the mountain shuttle bus stop. Our family of five stayed for six nights in a large, western-style room. The room was comfortable and clean. The kids enjoyed their first experience sleeping on futon beds, which to them was like having a giant sleepover party. The Captain and his family and staff are all so incredibly welcoming, attentive and gracious. They helped us with ski gear, directions, recommendations - whatever we needed. Our 2yo fell in love with a little Okomin plushie they had (Okomin is the mascot of Shiga Kogen) and they gifted it to her on our departure which was so unexpected and kind! One of the best things about staying here is the amazing dinner service. The Captain's wife does all of the cooking and every night is an absolute feast of traditional Japanese fare mixed with some European-style dishes. You'll never leave the dining room hungry, that's for sure! The lodge also has onsen baths, a kids play room, and a very comfortable bar area with a wood log fire and lots of board games and puzzles which our kids enjoyed. You can also hire ski gear if you need it - the Captain's son Ken runs the ski shop and is very experienced and helpful when it comes to all things skiing. Our family very much enjoyed our time at Villa Alpen and our kids are already asking us when we can go back. Thank you Captain and family for taking care of us again, we look forward to returning soon!

Staying at Villa Alpen is like suddenly being embraced by a new family who welcome you into their cozy, beautiful ski lodge! The rooms are very comfortable & clean; the separate male & female onsen facilities are simply magical & refreshing; and the meals are a delicious combination of simple home cooking & elegant kaiseki presentation!! The skilled ski instructors can offer an opportunity for marvelous fun & exercise. You won’t find a better vacation experience than Villa Alpen!!

We had a amazing three day ski trip to Villa Alpen. The Captain, his wife the chef, his ski instructor son (Ken-San), Nami, and the entire staff were so genuinely warm and helpful throughout our visit! All the meals were very delicious, ski equipment modern, and bar at night very comfortable with a family of three daughters visiting from the United States. I felt like we were back 20 years ago where people laughed conversed, sat around the fireplace playing games, roasting, marshmallows, and doing puzzles. Ken-san was an outstanding ski shop advisor who equipped us with everything we needed from ski pants, jackets, boots, and skis. He guided us across the entire mountain area for several hours. Very convenient from Tokyo via bullet train and bus! Busy the snow monkeys was a great additional activity! Most of people we were with in the lodge had been returning customers for 10 to 15 years! We will be back someday…