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Yakumo: The Hidden Gem for Skiing and Cultural Immersion in Hokkaido

2024.12.13

When you think of skiing in Hokkaido, places like Niseko or Furano likely come to mind. While these world-renowned resorts offer incredible slopes and vibrant nightlife, there’s something to be said about stepping off the beaten path and discovering a more serene, authentic side of Japan. Enter Yakumo, a quiet town nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering not only excellent skiing but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and connect with the warmth of its residents.

Where to Stay

①Pekolela(Hostel)

A campsite and hostel renovated from a former elementary school with a 100-year history. Stay in classrooms that retain the nostalgic school atmosphere.
Price: From 8,000 JPY per person per night.
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②SENTO(Hostel)

A café and hostel renovated from a former public bathhouse with over 100 years of history. Experience the unique atmosphere of a traditional Japanese sento during your stay.
Price: From 3,000 JPY per person per night.
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③Ochanoma(Shared House)

A shared house renovated from a former printing factory and a residence. The factory space has been transformed into a coworking area, where local children also come to study and play.
Price: From 11,000 JPY per person per week, or 40,000 JPY per person per month.
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④Super SENTO(Shared House)

A shared house that is a standard single-family home.
Price: From 20,000 JPY per person per week, or 60,000 JPY per person per month.
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Ski Resorts

Enjoy uncrowded ski areas around Yakumo, with pristine slopes catering to all skill levels. A quiet alternative to Hokkaido’s busier ski destinations.

①PIRIKA Ski Resort(Imakane Town)

You can enjoy the best snow in Southern Hokkaido with good onsen and local dishes. It takes about 40 min from accommodation in Yakumo. Ski-related gear is available for rent.
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②Yakumo Ski Resort(Yakumo Town)

The nearest cozy ski resort, just a 10-minute drive from the accommodation. Ski-related gear is not available for rent.
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Car Rentals

Explore Yakumo and its surroundings with ease by renting a car. Local rental options make it convenient for visitors to get around.

①Yakumo Rental Car( Next to the train station)

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②Hakodate Airport or Hakodate Station

③New Chitose Airport

Getting Here

Yakumo is accessible by train, bus, or car, with routes from major Hokkaido hubs like Sapporo and Hakodate. Detailed directions ensure a smooth journey.

✈️ By Air
– From Tokyo to New Chitose Airport(approx.1.5 hours flight)
There are cheaper flights than using Hakodate Airport
Take a train from New Chitose Airport to Minami ChitoseStation then transfer to Yakumo Station (approx. 2.5 hours) ¥6900 ($44)
– From Tokyo to Hakodate Airport(approx. 1 hour flight)
Take a bus to Hakodate Station (20 minutes) ¥500
Then the JR Hakodate Line to Yakumo Station (1 hour and 20 minutes)¥3600($23)

🚆 By Train
– From Tokyo:
Take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station
And take the Jr Hakodate Line to Yakumo Station
About ¥23,230($149)

– From Sapporo:
Take the JR Hakodate Line to Yakumo Station
2 hours and 20 minutes
About ¥7,800 ($50)

– From Hakodate:
Take the JR Hakodate Line to Yakumo Station
1 hour and 20 minutes
About ¥3600 ($23)

🚗 By Car
– From Sapporo: Use the Dōau Expressway (approx. 3 hours). Exit at Yakumo IC
– From Hakodate: Take Route 5 (approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes).
– From New Chitose Airport: Use the Do-O Expressway and exit at Yakumo IC, then about a 2.5-hour drive.

Unique Experiences

Engage in activities like snowshoeing through tranquil forests, learning traditional crafts, or participating in local culinary workshops.

For more information, please check the link below.
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Co-working Spaces

Stay productive during your visit with modern co-working facilities equipped with reliable internet and scenic views.

◾️Cafe SENTŌ

Open: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on: Mondays, Tuesdays, and public holidays
Usage Fee: One drink or Lunch order required(¥300~)
Wi-Fi & Plugs available

◾️Attic Co-Working Space

Business Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Closed on: N/A
Usage Fee: 500 yen for 30 minutes, 1000 yen for 1-8 hours for using it as a private
Wi-Fi & Plugs available

◾️Share house Ochanoma
for residents only
Wi-Fi & Plugs available

◾️Pekolela Gakusya
A campground and co-working facility.
It’s a repurposed former school with spacious guest rooms, a library, workspaces, shower rooms, and a gym indoors.
Surrounded by nature deep in the mountains, it offers a quiet and relaxing stay.
The concerns are that shopping is not easily accessible and the heavy snowfall.
Open: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Available 24 hours for overnight guests)
Closed on: N/A Usage Fee: 500 yen per day (included in the package)

Web Conference Room Available: Other classrooms can also be used as private rooms when not in use.
You can also stay in this school if you have a car here.

Tourist Attractions

Visit nearby natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural landmarks that showcase the beauty and heritage of Yakumo.

For more information, please check the link below:
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