Why Choose Otaru Powder Plus?
The perfect location!
The magic of Hokkaido’s powder snow is that it’s always changing. Some days it's good at one resort and the next day another. From Otaru you have easy access to multiple ski areas, meaning we can maximize your chances of hitting that perfect powder, day after day. No more sticking to just one resort and hoping for the best—we’ve got the local knowledge to make sure you’re always skiing the freshest powder possible.
The perfect powder club
As a member, obviously you'll benefit from our facilities, whether it's the lodge for hanging out in the evening, the sauna for a little relaxation, our own fields and hill for a little morning practice or trying new tricks or meeting our neighbors to try your Japanese. But you also benefit from other members, whether that's enjoying a different cuisine (weekly pot-lucks), making boarding buddies, driving together to the slopes, and even having a chance to learn some Japanese or other language. You are a big part of our Plus!
Not a hotel, not an externally managed B&B
With us you get a personal hosting experience, designed for those who want to immerse themselves in the best that Hokkaido has to offer. At Otaru Powder Plus, you’re not just another guest passing through—you’re staying with a local who will show you all the area has to offer, from where to ski/board to the best hot springs and restaurants after, to learning to blow glass to where to get locally brewed craft beer. And with a great place to hang out après-ski, you'll enjoy meeting other guests!
The "Plus" in Otaru Powder Plus
At Otaru Powder Plus, we’re not just about offering a room and a lift ticket. We’re about creating a personal experience, where you’re not just a visitor—you’re part of a community. The ‘Plus’ in our name means unique experiences that make your time here truly special. When staying with us, you can expect opportunities like:
- Crafting Your Own No Board: Going beyond traditional snowboarding by building your own No Board—a unique, binding-free snowboard focused on freedom and flow. Designing it, shaping it, and then taking it out for a test run on the nearby hill.
- Relaxing in our Sauna: Unwind in our sauna at the end of the day, or hit a traditional Japanese onsen on the way home. We’ll guide you through the rituals and customs, making sure you have a truly rejuvenating experience after a day in the snow.
- Discovering Otaru on a Guided Tour: Going beyond the ski resorts and exploring the town’s local history, charming shops, and hidden gems with a guided tour from your host. It’s the perfect way to connect with the culture and people of Otaru.
- Unwinding with Film Nights: Relaxing after a day on the slopes with cozy movie nights featuring local documentaries and skiing films.
- Connecting During Evenings: Enjoying casual music nights or friendly board game sessions, where you can kick back, share stories, and enjoy good company.
- Learn Japanese, cooking or crafts: Hiroko teaches Japanese at Hokkaido University, but during winter break, when she has free time, she's our go to prof. Otaru also offers many chances to learn arts and crafts...and we know just who to go to.
- Getting to the slopes together--it looks like we'll have 4 or 5 member cars this season, so it's a great transport forecast!
Rentals
Forget something? We're gradually building up our stock of rental gear and wear...from helmets and poles to skis, boards, snowshoes, sleds and even avi gear. We'll make sure you're covered.
This year we added new Fisher Garibaldi jackets to our existing lineup of Spider, Southline and North Face jackets.
Transport to the Best Snow
We know the best snow is what it’s all about, and we’ll make sure you have access to it. Current vehicle forecast calls for 4 or 5 member cars this winter, so looking good! With plenty of nearby resorts, we'll help you get to the best conditions, so you can focus on skiing, not the logistics.
- Transport available to nearby ski resorts
- Flexibility to visit different resorts based on the day’s conditions
- Maximize your chances of skiing the freshest powder
Cozy Accommodation
Think of it as your home away from home—whether you’re here for a month or more, you’ll have a comfortable space to call your own. We’ve got cozy rooms, warm beds, and all the essentials you need to relax after a day in the snow.
- Private rooms--no doubling up with a snorer!
- Fully equipped kitchen for whipping up meals yourself and saving money toward lift tickets!
- Lounge areas for kicking back after skiing
- Laundry facilities (because, yes, you'll be here a while)
- Dedicated boot drying room and board storage/maintenance room.
For those who need to Work, Digital Nomad-Approved
We know some of you will be balancing work with your time on the slopes, so we’ve made sure you’ve got everything you need to stay productive (and cozy) while you’re here. Whether it’s getting through video calls or finding a quiet spot to focus, we’ve got you covered
- Fast, reliable WiFi
- Dedicated spaces for working, limited number of large screens and a relaxed atmosphere
- Quiet, private areas for video calls or meetings, so you can work undisturbed
- Comfortable workstations for remote workers, whether you're coding, designing, or Zooming into meetings
Local Know-how
We know the area inside and out—from the best runs to the hidden onsen (hot springs). Whether you need ski tips, local food recommendations, or a tour around town, we’re here to help.
- Insider tips for skiing and exploring the area
- Optional ski lessons or pointers for beginners
- Recommendations for local restaurants, shops, and cultural spots
- Guided tours of the local town if you want to explore beyond the slopes
Sustainability at Its Core
Otaru Powder Plus is all about enjoying the snow without leaving a heavy footprint. By staying longer and reducing the need for constant travel, you’re helping keep Hokkaido’s powder as pristine as possible.
- As we add and renovate houses, we insulate them well, so you'll stay toasty!
- Minimizing environmental impact with fewer flights and daily commutes
- Local, sustainable practices to keep our footprint small
Long-Term Community Vibe
This isn’t a rushed weekend trip. Here, you’ll have time to really settle in, get to know your fellow skiers, and even meet some locals. It’s a chance to make new friends and be part of the Hokkaido scene.
- A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for long-term stays
- Opportunities to connect with locals and other guests
- Time to explore the town and discover what makes this place special
- Après-ski gatherings or casual meetups to chat and unwind
