5 unusual Japanese ski properties that break the mould of the traditional ski chalet

Looking for something a little less ordinary? This month, we’re showcasing a handful of standout properties that break the mould of the traditional ski chalet. From a rare riverfront site with onsen access in Niseko, to a profitable summer glamping business that lets you ski all winter, these listings offer lifestyle, income, and location—with a twist. Whether you’re chasing surf and snow on the Sea of Japan, dreaming of a boutique hotel project, or seeking a low-maintenance investment that works year-round, these properties open up new ways to experience Japan’s mountain regions.

Snow Coast

Ever dreamed of skiing in the morning and surfing by sunset?

Snow Coast House in Itoigawa, Niigata makes it possible. Set between the Japan Sea and some of Honshu’s best powder resorts—including Charmant Hiuchi, Lotte Arai, and Hakuba—this fully furnished, three-level home offers a rare “ski-to-sea” lifestyle.

Snow Coast. View more images

Complete with its own private bar, traditional kura guest suite, and a gym-equipped basement, it’s the perfect coastal escape for adventure lovers—and all for just ¥66 million. A true one-of-a-kind property in Japan’s resort landscape.

Glamping Business

Unlock year-round income in Niseko—with zero compromise.

Niseko Glamping offers a rare turnkey opportunity: 9,212 sqm of prime land, a thriving summer business generating ¥24–28 million in annual revenue (with ¥9–12 million pre-tax profit), and all assets included—from luxury tents and BBQ setups to storage, cafe containers, and power systems.

Niseko Glamping business. View more images

Priced at just ¥80 million, this fully operational glamping retreat allows you to earn during the off-season, freeing you to spend winters carving powder in Niseko—or pursue any winter venture. It’s the ideal blend of lifestyle flexibility and proven summer yield.

Niseko Riverfront

Discover Niseko’s ultimate hidden gem.

Priced at ¥200 million, this unrivalled 1,243 sqm riverfront parcel is the only property in Niseko with direct river access—perfect for private kayak launches, riverside wellness retreats, or serene waterside strolls. It also boasts a natural onsen spring, sidestepping expensive drilling costs—a rare find in today’s market.

Niseko Riverfront. View more images

With a generous building envelope (70% site coverage, 400% FAR) and existing 506 sqm structure ready for renovation or full redevelopment, the site’s potential spans from an architect-designed dream home to a boutique high-end hotel with panoramic Mt. Yotei views and riverfront appeal. Just 8 minutes from Annupuri and Niseko Village, and 2 minutes from Niseko Station, this rare development canvas represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Japan’s premier alpine destination.

Niseko Kominka

Step back in time with a twist.

Nestled along the Shiribetsu River just 10 minutes from Niseko’s legendary ski terrain, this 98‑year‑old kominka offers an extraordinary opportunity—own a slice of heritage for only ¥18 million. With 178 sqm of timeless wooden interiors across a spacious single-level layout and 850 sqm of riverside grounds, it’s ready to be restored into a serene family retreat or reimagined as an intimate boutique guesthouse.

Historic “Niseko Kominka”. View more images

Beautifully preserved vintage beams, charming tatami rooms, well water, and a quiet riverside setting—all a stone’s throw from Mt. Yotei and Niseko’s winter hot spots. This is more than a property—it’s a living narrative waiting to be told.

Seki Onsen Myoko

Prime Myoko investment right at the lifts.

Priced at ¥50 million, this expansive 1,838 sqm plot in Seki Onsen, Myoko sits literally across the road from the ski lift, offering true ski-in/ski-out access and the rare opportunity for private onsen rights—no need for expensive drilling.

Exclusive Seki Onsen Myoko. View more images

The former Echizenya ryokan (1,139 sqm) is ready for demolition and redevelopment, giving buyers full freedom to create a bespoke luxury chalet, boutique hotel, or refined alpine retreat. With Myoko undergoing a JPY 200 billion transformation into a premier year-round resort, this location represents both lifestyle allure and strategic timing for serious investors.

If none of the above get you dreaming of Japow, don’t worry! Head to uchijapan.com to find your perfect resort property in Japan’s best ski areas.