Pleasant stay throughout, and the staff are very friendly and helpful.
Location is quite isolated, except that if you plan to go to Hanazono ski resort, then this hotel is perfect, as the hotel shuttle would send you there in the morning and pick you up about 4pm.
After 4:30pm, the hotel shuttle could bring you to the restaurant or place you like with prior arrangement. It worked out perfectly to us, as the hotel was not too busy during our stay. When the hotel is full of guests, I am not sure it could work to everyone.
As we left during the time in the morning the shuttle was reserved to bring the guests to go to Hanazono ski resort, we took the taxi to the nearby JR station. So, be prepared for it if you are leaving around that time.
This was our third stay at Freedom Inn. We love the location within walking distance to the ski field but away from touristy Hirafu. They have a great pick up drop off shuttle service which can take you to dinner in either Hirafu or Kutchan. Try Kutchan for a more authentic japanese experience. You can even stop by an onsen on the way! There also is a free shuttle to/from the ski lifts. The rooms are very spaceous and there is an onsen/ouffro on site too. The photos don't really do this place justice. Time for some new photos Cliff! What really makes this place shine though, is the incredible team that makes everything run like clockwork. Jo's team are all so efficient, friendly and knowledgable! Always around for a chat, to help with restaurant and shuttle bookings and they give great tips for snow and dining. We'll be back again!