Tucked away in snow-covered Yuzawa, this straightforward ski lodge delivers the basics for powder hounds on a budget. During my visit, I found the rooms simple but comfortable, with reliable WiFi and essential air conditioning. A real treat is the traditional public bath – perfect for soothing those aching muscles after a day on the slopes.
The location is a winner, just a quick hop from three major ski resorts, and the convenience of on-site ski pass purchases means more time skiing, less time waiting in lines. The helpful staff clearly knows their winter sports.
Two notable drawbacks: The shared bathrooms might not suit everyone’s comfort level, and the strict 9 PM to 8 AM curfew could cramp your style if you’re hoping for late-night adventures.
This lodge is tailor-made for ski enthusiasts who prioritize slope access over luxury – particularly solo travelers or small groups who don’t mind the communal atmosphere. If you’re planning to maximize your time on the mountain and need a warm, no-frills base camp that won’t break the bank, you’ve found your spot.
We included this hotel in our 21 favorite hotels in Yuzawa.
Good To Know
- Pension Oz is located in Yuzawa, Niigata, Japan, approximately 1.3 miles from Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort and 16 miles from Naeba Ski Resort.
- The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and futon beds accommodating up to 6 guests per room.
- Pension Oz provides ski-to-door access, a public bath, and an on-site ski pass vendor and ski school for winter sports enthusiasts.
- The hotel offers complimentary WiFi throughout the property and provides a breakfast option with advance reservations.
- Pension Oz has an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10 based on 95 reviews, with the highest ratings in staff and free WiFi.
Location and Distance
Pension Oz is situated at Ishiuchi 834-20 in Yuzawa, Niigata, Japan.
It’s a 2-star hotel located about 1.3 miles from Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort and 16 miles from Naeba Ski Resort.
Maiko Snow Resort is 3.6 miles away, while Tanigawadake is 12 miles distant.
The nearest airport, Niigata Airport, is around 85 miles from the hotel.
Guests can enjoy the convenience of ski-to-door access, making it easy to hit the slopes during their stay.
Room Accommodations
The air-conditioned rooms at Pension Oz offer free WiFi and shared bathrooms. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV and a refrigerator, providing guests with basic amenities.
Guests can look forward to resting on the futon beds, with 6 beds per room. For those who brought their vehicles, private parking is available at an additional charge of ¥1,000 per day.
The accommodation’s minimalist yet functional design caters to travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient stay near the slopes.
Hotel Amenities
Guests at Pension Oz can take advantage of the hotel’s array of convenient amenities.
The property offers ski-to-door access, perfect for those looking to hit the slopes. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the hotel, keeping guests connected during their stay.
For relaxation, the public bath is a popular feature. When it’s time to refuel, breakfast is offered, but reservations must be made at least 2 days in advance.
The hotel also provides a ski pass vendor and ski school, catering to guests’ winter sports needs.
With these amenities, Pension Oz ensures a comfortable and well-equipped experience for its visitors.
Ski Activities
Avid skiers find Pension Oz’s location ideal, with ski-to-door access that allows them to hit the slopes in no time. The hotel offers convenient ski-related amenities, including a ski pass vendor and ski school on-site. Guests can take advantage of these facilities to maximize their time on the powdery snow.
| Ski Activities | Details |
|---|---|
| Skiing | Enjoy the nearby Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort, Naeba Ski Resort, and Maiko Snow Resort. |
| Ski Pass Vendor | Purchase ski passes directly at the hotel for easy access to the slopes. |
| Ski School | Take lessons from experienced instructors to improve your skiing skills. |
| Ski-to-Door Access | Step out from the hotel and immediately access the nearby ski areas. |
| Ski Storage | Store your equipment securely at the hotel during your stay. |
Dining Options
Pension Oz offers a convenient breakfast option for guests, available upon reservation at least 2 days in advance.
The hotel’s breakfast features:
- A selection of traditional Japanese dishes, including miso soup and grilled fish.
- Western breakfast staples like eggs, toast, and coffee.
- Vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
- A cozy dining area with views of the surrounding mountains.
While dinner isn’t provided on-site, guests can explore the local restaurants and eateries in Yuzawa, which offer a variety of Japanese and international cuisine options to suit all tastes.
Guest Ratings
The overall rating for Pension Oz stands at a respectable 7.4 out of 10, based on 95 guest reviews. Drilling down into the details, the hotel shines brightest in the staff (8.5) and free WiFi (8.5) categories. Cleanliness (8.0) and comfort (8.1) also rate highly. However, location (7.3) and facilities (7.4) received slightly lower scores. Value for money (7.7) lands in the middle. The breakdown of ratings is as follows:
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Staff | 8.5 |
| Cleanliness | 8.0 |
| Comfort | 8.1 |
| Value for Money | 7.7 |
| Location | 7.3 |
| Facilities | 7.4 |
Policies and Curfew
Guests must check in between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM, and check out by 10:00 AM.
The property’s entrance is closed between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM, so guests must adhere to the curfew.
Children over 3 are welcome, but pets aren’t allowed. Special requests can be made during booking.
While COVID-19 guidelines are in effect, additional safety measures may limit some services.
The key policies are:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Check-out: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Curfew: Property entrance closed from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM
- No pets allowed; children over 3 welcome
Additional Safety Measures
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Pension Oz has implemented additional safety measures to protect guests and staff. These measures include:
| Safety Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Face Coverings | Guests are required to wear face coverings in all common areas. |
| Disinfection | The hotel has increased the frequency of cleaning and disinfection in high-traffic areas. |
| Social Distancing | Signage and floor markers have been installed to encourage proper social distancing. |
Some services may be limited or temporarily unavailable to comply with local COVID-19 guidelines. Guests are encouraged to check the hotel’s website or contact the property for the most up-to-date information on safety protocols and service availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages to the Hotel?
Guests can bring their own food and drinks to the hotel. The property doesn’t have any restrictions on outside food or beverages, so visitors are free to enjoy their own provisions during their stay.
Does the Hotel Offer Laundry or Dry Cleaning Services?
The hotel doesn’t offer specific laundry or dry cleaning services, but guests can use the public bath for handwashing clothes. There’s no information about any on-site laundry facilities.
What Types of Payment Methods Are Accepted at Check-In?
Pension Oz accepts a variety of payment methods at check-in, including cash, credit cards, and possibly mobile payments. Guests should confirm the accepted payment options when making their reservation or upon arrival.
Are There Any Nearby Restaurants or Convenience Stores?
There are several restaurants and convenience stores within a short walking distance of the hotel. Guests can find a variety of dining options and shops nearby to meet their needs during their stay.
Is There a Luggage Storage Facility Available at the Hotel?
The hotel doesn’t mention a dedicated luggage storage facility, but guests can likely leave bags with the front desk before check-in or after check-out if needed.
The Sum Up
Pension Oz offers a convenient and comfortable base for exploring Yuzawa’s renowned ski resorts. With amenities like air-conditioning, free WiFi, and a public bath, it caters well to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this 2-star hotel provides an ideal home-away-from-home for your Niigata getaway.