Madarao isn't the biggest ski-jo out there, so you might be surprised to see at just how popular it is becoming with the 'inbound' crowd.
The last few years have seen a noticeable increase in the number of foreigners out there and more than a few old accommodations being bought up by overseas money. From what I hear, that has only increased this year.
Madarao is one of my locals and I do like it and always have. The resort itself
I live fairly close to this place and so it is one of my local places to go along with Nozawa and Kijimadaira. I like Ryuo, esp the more difficult runs and the trees (find me if you can).
First run of the 2005/6 season:
Opening day of the season (23rd Nov 05)! There was more snow than I was expecting up there and it was pretty decent quality as well. Not too busy, excellent weather, great to be out