Urabandai Grandeco Tokyu Hotel  

Perched on a riverside in Kitashiobara, Fukushima, this ski hotel puts you minutes from Gran Deco Snow Resort. Nakatsugawa Canyon, the Morohashi Museum of Modern Art and Herb Space Bandia are all nearby, and it's roughly 25 km from Yonezawa city center.

Expect modern mountain-chic vibes with 103 air-conditioned rooms. Many rooms have private balconies or patios and plasma TVs, plus bathrobes and slippers in the bathroom. Public spaces include a cozy fireplace and daily housekeeping to keep things sharp.

A full lineup for ski season and chill time: indoor and outdoor pools, two spa tubs, a spa center, sauna and massage room. Ski-to-door access, ski school, equipment rental, storage and a ski transfer make this a true ski-friendly base. Family-friendly extras include a children's playroom and table tennis. Free self parking and a complimentary area shuttle keep arrivals easy.

Complimentary wireless internet keeps you connected. The hotel also offers complimentary newspapers in the lobby and on-site laundry facilities.

Three on-site restaurants and a coffee shop/café serve meals throughout the day, with buffet breakfast available for a fee. Two bars and lounges are perfect for après-ski drinks and relaxed evenings.