Akadake Kousen is a year-round mountain lodge located at an elevation of 2,240 meters in the Yatsugatake mountains of Chino City, Nagano Prefecture. It serves as the primary base camp for climbing Mt. Akadake (2,899m) and is accessible via a 2-hour hike from Minotoguchi. The lodge is a popular base for climbing the main peaks of Yatsugatake, including Akadake, Yokodake, and Iōdake, used by climbers throughout the year.

The lodge features a mineral spring bath, available only from late May to late October. To protect the environment, soap and shampoo are prohibited, but it's a valuable bath for recovering from hiking fatigue. Day-use bathing is available for 1,000 yen.

Accommodation includes shared dormitory rooms (capacity approximately 30 people) and private rooms. Private rooms are available on the 2nd floor (3 rooms with 4 beds each, 8,000 yen extra) and in the upper wing (8 rooms for up to 4 people, 4,000 yen extra). Rates start at 13,000 yen per night with two meals, with a 1,000 yen discount for elementary school students and free accommodation for preschoolers (no meals or bedding). Tent camping is also available for 2,000 yen per person.

The lodge's main attractions are its famous steak dinner and the winter-only ice climbing facility "Ice Candy." Dinner features a daily rotating menu including steak, hot pot dishes, and grilled fish, with the popular steak prepared individually in personal pots. However, as menus rotate daily, steak isn't guaranteed. Light meals like ramen, curry, and beef bowls are also available.

During winter (late December to March), the artificial ice waterfall "Ice Candy" is created, making it nationally famous as an ice climbing practice area. Rental equipment is comprehensive, suitable for beginners to advanced climbers. Check-in is at 9:00, check-out at 8:30, with refreshment service from 10:00-15:00 and the shop open until 20:00. Payment is cash only, with reservations accepted by phone or email. Operating year-round, it's a well-equipped mountain lodge serving as a Yatsugatake climbing base throughout all seasons.