Resort is a generous term for this ski area, to me Ashidake is a power haven, with epic touring options. If awesome, expansive tree skiing, waist deep powder and wild beauty (with volcanic gas vents) isnt your thing go elsewhere.
What Ashidake offers is unforgettable off piste terrain and unbelievable snow. There is a small gift shop and cafe area which is cheap and cheerful, nothing gourmet. 2 or 3 groomed runs, and a huge amount of off piste are accessible by a single cable car which runs every 20mins. This ensure of a quietness on the mountain you'll be hard put to find in another "resort". The lift can be paid for by time/ number of lifts taken.
Cant comment on accommodation or beer prices sadly. we accessed via car which was easy enough - plenty of parking space.
Having spent 5months skiing in Japan, Asidake won the competition for deepest snow. Just be careful of the volcanic vents in poor conditions! (these can only be accessed by touring above the max lift height).
Well worth a visit.
