Aside from the usual ski resort souvenirs available in Madarao, it is well worth taking an excursion into Iiyama 30 minutes away where there are a number of unique products available from the small stores lining the city’s atmospheric streets. Iiyama is renowned as the place to buy small decorative Buddhist altars. The craftsman here are revered as the best in Japan and are said to produce the largest variety of Buddhist altars in the country. This is also a good place to find beautiful examples of handmade Japanese washi (paper), Uchiyama tesuki washi, has a local history of over 400 years.
Souvenirs on the edible – and just as unusual side – include local specialties such as Scotch thistle preserve, walnut jam, and aloe vera honey.
North Nagano Outdoor Sports
Location: Madarao Kogen Hotel
Shop: outdoor gears and apparels, outdoor tours
Phone: + (81)090-4461-7354
Madarao Kogen Hotel
Location: inside the hotel
Shop: ski and snowboard accessories, souvenirs, snacks, sundries, and alcohol
Phone: +81 269-64-3311
Wills Souvenirs
Location: Madarao Kogen Hotel
Shop: T-shirts and a few other Madarao souvenirs
Shirakaba Rentals Madarao
Location: Powder Station
Shop: skis, boots and poles rental
Phone: +(81)269-64-3311
Active Life Madarao – Gear Rental
Location: Aya Lodge
Shop: skis, poles, boards, boots, jackets, and pants