Otaru is a historic port city on the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido. It is perfectly positioned to make the most out of the epic winters. It regularly gets the most snowfall in the country and offers easy access to 5 resorts and multiple backcountry touring spots.
We have been based in Hokkaido for 13 winters and have travelled around the whole island (almost) and are very happy to have chosen the Otaru area as our go to in winter.
Otaru offers something more than the standard resort hotel experience. It’s known for having some of the best seafood, as well as many bars, restaurants and cafes.
We offer day and multiple day tours to the resorts in the area, as well as side country and backcountry tours.
The 5 resorts are all easily reached by car within 45 minutes of downtown. There are also seemingly endless backcountry touring options all nearby.
WHY US?
Qualified & Certified. Avalanche Operations Stage 1, American Pro 1 & Wilderness First Responder 80 hr. Snowboard Level 3 Instructor & Ski Instructor certified.
Insured. Just in case.
We live in the area fulltime.
13 winters based in Hokkaido.
We speak the language and have an understanding of the customs and culture of the local population.
We are very grateful to be able to live here and are well placed to show you why we love it so much.
For skilled riders wanting to explore the backcountry safely. Learn about avalanche safety gear, route finding, terrain assessment, decision making & how to find the best snow. A full day guiding in the mountains, with transport and the best onsen on the way home.
Resort, lift accessed & full backcountry tours. The mountains around Otaru are blessed with an abundance of snow and terrain. Kiroro, Kokusai, Teine, Tengu & Asari are all within 45 minites. Transport, a full day guiding on snow & the best onsen on the way home.
Take your riding to the next level with a 1-1 session from an experienced and qualified pro. A clear progression to get you riding better, quicker. All levels welcome. Transport, a full day private lesson on snow & the best onsen on the way home.
"Our first experience was for Powder Guiding in the backcountry. His knowledge of where to find the best spots and how to keep everyone safe was impressive. It was an unforgettable experience!"
Raph, France
"Never thought I would find knee deep powder in the trees at 3pm, but they always knew the spots. The knowledge of the mountains was incredible. We had a fantastic trip"
Grady, California
"We did not have significant snowfall during our trip, so we relied on snowfall that had arrived in the weeks prior. Max had a very detailed knowledge of the mountains we rode (Furano, Kiroro, Kokusai & Teine) and he found powder all day, every day."
Dan, Canada
Winter Season 2024/2025 from 11th December, every day
Phone & WhatsApp: [ +81 80 7797 7240 ]
Instagram: [ @otaru_powder_guides ]
Email: [ momentumhokkaido@gmail.com ]