Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension in Myoko, Japan: You WON'T Believe This!
Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension in Myoko, Japan: You WON'T Believe This!
Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension: Myoko's Secret Paradise? (Spoiler Alert: Maybe!) - A Brutally Honest Review
Okay, so you're searching for "Myoko accommodation," "Japan ski resorts," "onsen hotels," or maybe you just stumbled upon this review. Either way, you've probably heard whispers about Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension. Let me tell you, the "hidden" part is definitely true. Finding the place feels like a treasure hunt, but trust me, it's worth the quest… mostly.
First, the Basics: Accessibility (and Lack Thereof!)
Now, I have to start with the elephant in the room: Accessibility. This is where things get… complicated. The website claims facilities for disabled guests. However, navigating the Pension is a bit of a workout. Forget about navigating it with a wheelchair. There are steps. Lots of steps. And some seriously steep inclines. The "facilities" seem more like a nod to a future than a present reality. So, if you have mobility issues, this is probably NOT the place for you. I'm genuinely sorry to say that, because the views are killer. The photos they show? They are really gorgeous.
But Wait, There's More (Good Stuff!)
Let's focus on the good before I lose my mind. The location is chef's kiss. Nestled in the Myoko Kogen mountains, the views are breathtaking. Finding this hidden gem is going to test your navigational skills for sure, but you will feel like you went on an adventure!
On-Site Amenities: Spa Day, Food, and Fu-Fu-Fun!
Let's run down the list, shall we?
The Spa Experience: Okay, the spa is pretty damn impressive. I'm talking sauna after soaring down the slopes, melting away all those sore muscles. They have a swimming pool [outdoor] with a view, which, yes, is as glorious as it sounds, but you'll be more likely to enjoy the spa/sauna combo. The steamroom? Heavenly. I spent a solid hour there. I loved it. They also offer Body scrub which is just all types of indulgent, like I'm a goddess or something, Massage is a no-brainer. A. No. Brainer. Oh, and foot baths! These are a must after a long day exploring. And if you're feeling extra, there are body wraps and a fitness center for those who are more motivated than me (and probably you, let's be honest).
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Feast for the Senses (Mostly)
Okay, this is where things get really interesting. The Asian cuisine is what you want! The buffet in restaurant is amazing! I'm a breakfast person, and the buffet made me very happy. You can get Asian breakfast and western breakfast if you so wish! If you're feeling fancy there is the a la carte in restaurant. and there's a desserts in restaurant I was so happy with. The coffee shop is a lifesaver in the morning, and the bar is perfect for a relaxing evening. The poolside bar? Sign me up. They even have a happy hour! (I might've taken advantage of that a time or two…). They offer international cuisine in restaurant for guests with different taste buds! There's also a snack bar, but really, the restaurants are where it's at. They offer bottle of water to keep you hydrated.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Secure (and Protected From Germs!)
I’m a bit of a germaphobe (don't judge!), so the cleanliness was a huge win for me. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. They also have Hand sanitizer everywhere. They even had Individually-wrapped food options for breakfast. The staff is clearly trained in hygiene certification. I felt safe. They have Staff trained in safety protocol. They even have CCTV in common areas and security around the clock.
Rooms, Rooms, Glorious Rooms… With a Few Quirks
My room… where do I begin? It was a decent size, with a comfy bed, and of course, an air conditioning. I had a desk and a laptop workspace, perfect for pretending to work while secretly planning my next onsen soak. The complimentary tea was lovely. The bathtub and separate shower/bathtub were a nice touch. Blackout curtains? Essential for a good night's sleep after a day of skiing or exploring. The view from the window was incredible. I can't say enough about it. The safe box made me feel secure when I was out and about.
Now, the quirky bits… The decor is a little… vintage. Think… mountain lodge meets… well, let's just say it's got character. Don't go expecting minimalist chic. But honestly, it adds to the charm. And the Internet access – wireless? It was a bit spotty in my room. The internet access – LAN was more reliable, but who brings a LAN cable in 2024? Sigh. The Wi-Fi [free] in the public areas was fine.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Beyond Skiing
Guess what? There is a LOT more to do in Myoko than just skiing. Things to do list is long. Sauna, steamroom, swimming pool, and spa are all amazing. They offer a fitness center to keep up your fitness goals, there's a shrine nearby to learn about the culture and of course the onsen is there. You can plan a seminars or meetings and use their meeting/banquet facilities.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
The staff at are genuinely lovely. They have Concierge service, daily housekeeping, and laundry service. They offer currency exchange. There's a business center for those who need it with a Xerox/fax in business center. There's also an elevator, which is a life-saver considering all the stairs!! There is a convenient convenience store. They offer car park [free of charge] so you don't need to worry on where to park.
For the Kids: Myoko Family Fun!
Moomin Papa's seems quite family/child friendly. I didn't travel with kids, so I can't fully speak to this, but from what I observed. They have babysitting service and kids meal.
Getting Around and Other Important Stuff:
They have a airport transfer service. They also have a car park [on-site]. They have taxi service.
My Honest Verdict: Love it or Leave it?
Look, Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension is not perfect. The accessibility is a real downer. And the vintage decor might not be everyone's cup of tea. (Personally, I found it charming).
But… the location is incredible. The spa is divine. The food is delicious. And the staff are super friendly. It's a place that feels… well, hidden. Unique. And if you go in with your eyes wide open, ready for an adventure, it's an experience you won't forget.
So, Who Should Book?
- Active travelers who are looking for a relaxing basecamp in Myoko.
- Couples seeking a romantic getaway.
- Foodies who appreciate delicious Asian cuisine.
- Spa lovers who want to spend hours in the sauna and onsen.
- Anyone who just wants to be pampered and enjoy stunning views.
Who Should Maybe Skip?
- Anyone with serious mobility issues.
- Those seeking ultra-modern, minimalist luxury.
My Emotional Takeaway:
I went expecting a ski lodge and got an adventure. I left relaxed, rejuvenated, and already scheming about my return. The imperfections? They just added to the charm. 9/10 - would recommend (with caveats!).
Final Thoughts
Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension - You WON'T Believe This! It's not wrong, it's a bit of an exaggeration! But the core is true. It's a hidden gem in Myoko, with so many quirks. It's an unforgettable experience. That said, it definitely isn't for everyone. So, do your research, prepare your expectations, and book your stay at Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension! I can't guarantee perfection, but I can guarantee an adventure.
Final Recommendation: Book it Now!
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Myoko: A Mishap-Filled (and Mostly Magical) Adventure in Pension Moomin Papa - A Very Messy Itinerary
Okay, so this isn't your pristine, perfectly-planned travel brochure. This is more like my brain after a particularly strong cup of Japanese coffee. I'm headed to Pension Moomin Papa in Myoko, and let's just say, the trip will be… an experience!
Day 1: Arrival and the Search for Authenticity (and Wi-Fi)
Morning (6:00 AM): Alarm clock SCREAMS. Seriously, it’s like a tiny, enraged banshee. Drag myself out of bed, fueled by the promise of adventure and the faint hope that this ramen I ate last night will stay down.
Morning (7:00 AM-10:00 AM): Hectic airport dash, security lines that feel like an endurance test, and the existential dread that only comes from realizing you've packed the wrong adapter. Also, forgot my noise-canceling headphones. HUGE mistake.
Afternoon (12:00 PM-4:00 PM): Flight to Niigata. Okay, the flight was smooth. Like, surprisingly so. Enough time to actually read a book. Almost lulled me into thinking I had it all together. Almost. Then the connection train. Oh, the connection train. After the first transfer, I was exhausted. I really need to work on my navigating skills. So I was exhausted and I could not find any wifi. Just me and the endless landscape.
Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM-7:00 PM): Train to Myoko! The scenery is breathtaking. That's the good part. The slightly less good part? I'm pretty sure I managed to drop my passport somewhere between station A and station B. Panicked internal monologue re: "OMG, will I ever see my cat again?! Will I be forced to live on a diet of instant noodles?!"
- (7:00 PM): Arrive at Pension Moomin Papa! Seriously, the cutest place ever. Like, straight out of a storybook. The family who runs it are absolutely lovely, and the air is crisp and clean. This is where the magic starts, right?
- (8:00 PM): Dinner at Moomin Papa. HOLY. MOLTEN. CHEESE. I'm talking fondue that's so good, it has actually made me question every life choice I've ever made that didn't involve copious amounts of melted Emmental. The conversation was a bit…stilted. My Japanese is (let's be honest) rudimentary. There were a lot of awkward smiles and frantic pointing at food. My attempts at using the word "delicious" were… underwhelming.
- (9:00 PM onwards): Attempt to reconnect with the world. Success! The WiFi is surprisingly decent! Post frantically on social media about cheese, the passport situation, and the fact that I think I actually saw a real-life snow fairy flitting around the garden.
(Bedtime): Absolutely knackered. Dreaming of snow-capped mountains, melted cheese, and hopefully, finding my darn passport.
Day 2: Onsen Bliss, Unexpected Snow, and a Lesson in Humility
- Morning (8:00 AM): Breakfast at Moomin Papa. More deliciousness. Japanese breakfast is… a work of art. I ate too much. Again. I should probably start taking photos before I eat everything.
- Morning (9:00 AM-12:00 PM): The reason I came here: Onsen time! Soaking in a steaming hot spring, surrounded by snow-dusted pines. Utter, pure, unadulterated bliss. My anxieties melted away with the snow. This is what life's all about. (Post-Onsen: Realized I'd forgotten my towel. Luckily, the Pension lady was extremely kind and helped me out.)
- Afternoon (12:00 PM-3:00 PM): Trying to embrace the "local experience." Walked around the town. It was cold. Really cold. The perfect time for some hot chocolate. The walk was nice, but I got lost.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM-5:00 PM): Back to the Pension and a well-deserved nap. Woke up with a start. Then I realized i would actually have to do something.
- Evening (6:00 PM-7:30 PM): Back at Moomin Papa, more dinner! Started getting a bit better with the (very essential) Japanese phrases.
- Evening (8:00 pm onwards): A bit of stargazing. The sky here is unbelievably clear. It’s like someone turned the lights back on in the universe. Found out the passport was in my bag after all. A minor victory!
Day 3: Snowboarding, (Possibly) Breaking Bones, and Embracing the Chaos
- Morning (7:00 AM): Wake up excited (and secretly terrified) to snowboard. Ski rental! Another lesson in international understanding as I realized I had absolutely no clue what I was doing.
- Morning (9:00 AM-12:00 PM): Attempt to learn snowboarding. "Attempt" is the operative word here. I spent most of the time on my face. Pretty sure my dignity is currently buried somewhere in the snow. Falling down a lot and yelling a lot. Worth it.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM-1:00 PM): Lunch break. Ramen to the rescue!
- Afternoon (1:00 PM-4:00 PM): More snowboarding, with slightly less face-planting. Made a small, pathetic amount of progress. There was a point where I was sure I had to go back to the pension because I was scared. The feeling subsided eventually.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM-5:00 PM): Soaked in the onsen for what felt like an hour. It was beautiful.
- Evening (6:00 PM-7:30 PM): Another delicious dinner and conversation with the Pension family. Feeling like I'm actually, almost fitting in. The best meal of the trip so far.
- Evening (8:00 PM onwards): Journaling, reflecting on the day.
Day 4: Departure and the End of An Adventure
- Morning (8:00 AM): Last breakfast at Moomin Papa. Heavy on the cheese. I will miss this place.
- Morning (9:00 AM-11:00 AM): Said goodbye. Filled with regret!
- Afternoon (1:00 PM- 6:00 PM): Travel back to the airport. Said goodbye to the snow and the mountains. Sad!
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Flight home! Overall a very good trip.
Important Notes (aka, the stuff I probably should have mentioned sooner):
- My Japanese is terrible, but I'm learning! Gestures and smiles are your friends.
- Pack layers! The weather is unpredictable.
- Embrace the mess! Things will go wrong. That's part of the fun.
- Most importantly, take it all in. This trip is a blur of activity and I can't wait to do it again.
Moomin Papa's Hidden Pension in Myoko: You WON'T Believe This! FAQs (Because I barely do!)
What *is* Moomin Papa's Pension, and is it *really* hidden? Because honestly, "hidden" in Japan sounds like a ninja operation.
Okay, so it's *technically* called "Moomin Papa's Pension" (or something similar, I’m going off memory here – the details are a bit hazy after the sake). It's in Myoko, Japan, a beautiful area for skiing. And yes, "hidden" is the perfect word. Not in a *secret lair* kind of way, but more like... "blink and you'll miss it amongst a thousand other adorable chalets" kind of way. Finding it the first time involved more wandering lost in the snow, muttering about the existential futility of life, than any actual navigation. It's tucked away, alright. You'll need a good GPS (and maybe a prayer) to find it. Don't rely on Google Maps, mine wanted to route me through a freaking *mountain*.
Why "Moomin Papa"? Is it themed? And does it, like, have a little Snufkin playing the harmonica?
Yes, it IS themed. Heavily. I'm talking full-on Moomin fever dream. Think pastel colors, goofy characters everywhere (Moominmama’s always giving you the side-eye, I swear), and a general feeling of… *whimsy*. No Snufkin with a harmonica (sadly), but lots of Moomintroll and Little My figurines scattered around. It's adorable, don’t get me wrong. But after a few days, it starts to feel like you’ve accidentally wandered into a children's book. A very *cozy* children's book, mind you. Be warned. It’s not for the aggressively un-cute. I wouldn’t say the owner *is* Moomin Papa in the flesh but, he *does* embody that kindly, slightly flustered vibe.
Okay, but the important stuff: the food. Is the food any good? Because I’m all about the food.
OH. MY. GOD. The food. This is where Moomin Papa’s *absolutely shines*. Absolutely. It’s not just good, it's… *soul-restoring*. Think mountains of fresh, local ingredients. The breakfasts are epic – overflowing with fluffy omelets, steaming miso soup that warms you from the inside out, and some kind of *magic* bread that I’d probably sell my soul for. Dinner… well, dinner is a multi-course adventure. It involves fresh seafood, locally sourced vegetables, and a level of culinary artistry that’s frankly… astonishing. (I’m not even exaggerating; I nearly wept into my tempura one night.) The chef (who's not Moomin Papa, surprisingly!) is a genius. Seriously, go for the food alone. Forget the Moomins, come for the culinary experience.
So, is it a good place to stay for skiing? Because, duh, how else would you end up there?
Perfect! It's in a *fantastic* location. Seriously. Like, a short, snow-dusted walk to the ski lifts. Easy access to some *amazing* powder. And the views? Breathtaking. You wake up, look out the window, and BAM! Mountains. Just… glorious, snow-covered mountains. And after a hard day of skiing, what better way to end it than a nice hot bath, a delicious meal, and an environment that encourages rest?
What’s the vibe? Is it kid-friendly? Romantic? Or just… weird?
All of the above! It *is* kid-friendly, yes. Expect giggling children and the occasional Moomin-themed craft project. It’s also romantic, in a cozy, fireside kind of way. But sometimes… it’s just *weird*. In a good way, mind you. There’s a certain… *charm* to it. Like a slightly eccentric relative's house. I once witnessed the owner (not Moomin Papa himself, but a very kind, gentle soul) attempt to teach a group of rambunctious children how to make origami. Let's just say… it wasn't a complete success. But it was endearing. It's a place where you can relax, be yourself, and maybe, just maybe, embrace your inner child. Or, you know, just eat a mountain of delicious food. Either works.
Do they speak English? I’m terrible at Japanese (and I mainly speak in food-related phrases).
Yes, they do! A little. The staff is very accommodating, and they try their best, but it’s not a perfectly fluent experience. But don't let that stop you! The kindness and efforts to communicate far outweigh any language barriers. Hand gestures, pointing at menus, and the occasional burst of laughter are usually more than enough to get by. I survived, and I'm functionally monolingual. You'll be fine. (Plus, the universal language of food transcends linguistic limitations, right? "This delicious!" works wonders.)
Any downsides? Because nothing's perfect... right?
Okay, so the downsides… (takes a deep breath). The rooms, while comfortable, are… compact. Like, Japanese-hotel-room compact. Don't expect to be doing cartwheels in your bedroom. Also, the walls are a bit thin. You *will* hear your neighbors snoring (or maybe just breathing loudly after too much sake). And the internet… well, it's Japan. It's a bit… temperamental. But honestly, these are minor quibbles. The charm and the food genuinely outweigh any minor annoyances. I’d go back in a heartbeat.
What’s one memory that sticks with you the most?
Ugh, this is tough because so many memories are blended together. It was just after a particularly long day of skiing. I'd fallen on my face multiple times, and I was *soaked* and exhausted and grumpy. I stumbled back to the pension, feeling utterly defeated. I went in looking like a drowned rat, ready to wallow in my misery. Then I walked in, and the aroma of dinner hit me—a symphony of garlic, ginger, and something… indescribably delicious. And there, in the cozy dining room, was a table laden with food. Mountains of it. Plates piled impossibly high. The owner, grinning like a slightly mischievous Papa Moomin (the other one, not the real one), beckoned me over. And for the next two hours, I just… *ate*. I ate until I couldn't move, until the warmth of the meal seeped into my soulDigital Nomad Hotels
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