Freeride Lodge Niseko — Hotel in Niseko

We stayed for 6 days. The stay started off normal, with a tour of the facilities, and some introductions on where to cook etc.

We noticed quickly that the place is a glorified party house which is extremely over staffed. We got the understanding throughout our stay that it’s just a bunch of a British and Australian friends working, drinking and wanting to ride Japan powder rather than actually work.

Bathrooms were consistently, understocked on toilet paper and cold, with windows being left open.

One night, the entire staff went for a party, leaving not one staff member in the building for 3/4 of a day. They stared off with all doing shots in the morning. Then in the evening, which was 1.30 am yelling, screaming and dancing, all while us guests were trying to sleep. When asked if they had quiet hours, responded with do we? We were left with very poor version of an apology, and the staff involved did not even take us aside to give us a proper reason, just mainly “this usually does not happen”.

Of course it should never happen, that should be without saying, but shying away as a staff member, partying the way you did is very disrespectful. Your guests well being and sleep should always come first.

If you want a place that is a glorified watering hole for Australia and lack all semblances of good customer service then this is the place to go. Will not...

I had the greatest stay at Freeride Lodge

Before I arrived I asked tons of questions and Megan always replied promptly and she even offered to help with some rental stuff. Thanks!

When I arrived I was greeted by Connor, bright smile and a great attitude.

The first night I bumped into a big party for the birthday of one of staff and there I met also Helayna and Lucie, also part of the staff.

The guys in my room were also kind. The first morning they waited 8am when I woke up to turn up the light in the room.

In the end it's just a bed and breakfast, but the atmosphere and the attitude of the stuff made it a special. It's an amazing combination of young people brimming with joy of life and also trying to help customers when needed.

I'll miss them!

Just be careful if you're a bit tall or be ready to bump your head a few times. Nothing major.

Final tip. The restaurant at the end of the road as a shuttle service to pick you up for dinner. Great to make sure you don't...

Greatest place to stay in Niseko. Perfect location, walking distance to the lift and bus stop right outside if you want to go to Hirafu or Annupuri. Also a lot of nice restaurants close by and that offers pickup to avoid the hustle of booking table in Hirafu. The have all the amenities like fully equipped kitchen, tv room, 2 baths, and more.

What really made the trip so special was the staff who made everyone feel superwelcome. Even if you just stay for one night or one month you would still feel like everyone at the hostel is old friends. Ofc you can still have your own privacy if...