Powder Temple

We had an amazing holiday at The Powder Temple, largely due to the exceptional staff and the welcoming atmosphere they created. I want to be very clear from the outset: the staff made this place what it was. Hannah, Jack, Freya, and the two Swedish guys were outstanding hosts throughout our stay. Their hospitality was genuine, warm, and consistent. Nothing was too much trouble, the property was always kept clean and tidy, and the overall vibe they created was fantastic. Chef Freya cooked great food, the two showers that were working were reliably hot, and having a bar on site was a nice bonus (although drinks were pretty exy). However, it’s important to temper expectations when it comes to the physical property and amenities. While this is on the cheaper end of accommodation, the facilities are very run down and, in some cases, felt a little unsafe. There were exposed wires (I’m not sure if they were live or not), a large heavy door in the dry room fell on me at one point, and the new dining area had multiple roof leaks. At one stage there weren’t enough buckets to manage the leaks, and unfortunately my little fella slipped on the wet floor. Also to note, there are a few odour issues getting around the place. The place definitely needs a lot of attention and maintenance. This accommodation is best suited to people who are regular campers — it’s really more like glamping than lodge-style accommodation. That said, we genuinely had a great holiday. If not for the incredible staff, this review may have been much more critical. With realistic expectations and an understanding of what you’re booking, it can be a fun, social, and memorable place to stay.

The Powder Temple was an awesome place to stay. The rooms were well equipped and comfortable with heaps of options regarding sleeping requirements. The PT is located in an awesome area of Hakuba with only a short walk to Echoland and heaps of eating places. The slopes are only a short drive away too with the Shuttle Bus parking right out front. I can only describe the PT as a home away from home. Very comfortable couches and the staff are amazing. It actually feels like you’re at home rather than in a hotel. Jake, Renae, Jess, Tim, Brylee, Grace, Cooper, Ned and Cohie were awesome as staff and friends by the end of our trip. Always up for a laugh and drink after hours with heaps of knowledge of the areas to ski/board on a particular day. Do not look elsewhere if you want a home away from home and not a hotel feel. This place is the place and will be back in 2027. China

This is the worst hotel I’ve stayed in in Japan and a very disappointing stay. First, it looks nothing like the photos. It is undergoing a renovation that is half done and seems abandoned. Hazardous chemicals are stored in the hallways. (I have photos where a large container clearly marked as hazardous and flammable is being stored in the hallway). The high staircase out front has no guard rail and is unsafe. Parts of the floors are stripped and not finished. The interior staircase is stripped and unfinished. On top of that the hotel was not very clean. The bathrooms were not up to Japan standards. They had a plumbing issue so used the room next to us as the shared bathroom and people were opening and closing the door until after 2am. The walls are thin and the room would shake when they closed the doors. They have heaters in the room that have an alarm that goes off every 4 hours and you can’t turn it off, so expect to be awakened several times a night. The ski storage room has trash about the floor. There was no soap in the bathroom and we had to request it. The staff was the only bright spot as they were kind and helpful. But otherwise this place is not safe and poor quality.

Amazing staff and location, comfortable It was an excellent stay. The staff and owner were super accomodating, couldnt have been nicer. Its super nice and comfy inside, with good facilities for drying gear and storing boards. The location being right next to the bus stop makes it one of the best locations in Hakuba. This is top choice accomodation if you want to snowboard in Hakuba.