Otari: A Snowy Haven
Known as Hakuba’s snow capital, Otari is a village in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan. The village was established in 1954, and has been a haven for snow sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. Otari, Japan is within the borders of the Chubu-Sangaku National Park. Guests can go ahead and book a flight to the Narita International Airport and enjoy the simplicity of Otari.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Otari would be during the months of April to July for comfortable weather. Skiers would be at ease with the usual weather in Otari. Tourists would enjoy the Tsugaike Kogen Snow Festival during the month of March, which features fireworks and torchlight gliding. Tourists can also head on to the nearby city of Matsumoto, the city of music, where they can enjoy the Matsumoto Grand Taiko Festival, which is held on the last weekend of July.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Art lovers can visit the Kitano Museum of Art, which include works by Shinsui Ito, Hishida Shunso, and other foreign painters, such as Pablo Picasso, and Auguste Rodin. The museum also includes a Japanese garden that was completed in 1965. Otari houses wonderful ski resorts, one of which is the Tsugaike Ski Resort, which appeals to families with its beginner trails. Another ski resort would be the Togari Onsen Ski Resort, where snowshoeing is an additional activity. All of the ski resorts in Otari boast of good quality power snow, which tourists enjoy. One of the best Otari, Japan hotels that you can book at would be the Hakuba Alps Hotel. The 4 star Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba offers saunas, hot spring bath, fantastic mountain views and 3 dining options.