About Penke Panke
Penke Panke is a boutique ski and snowboard rental shop in Hakuba that has carved out a niche serving the valley's growing community of international visitors with a curated selection of quality equipment and a distinctly personal touch. Named after a local Ainu-language term, the shop reflects a deep connection to Hakuba's mountain culture and a commitment to helping guests get the most out of their time on snow in the Japanese Alps.
The rental fleet is carefully selected to cover all ability levels, from beginner packages with forgiving, easy-turning skis through to advanced all-mountain and powder-specific setups for experienced riders tackling Hakuba's legendary off-piste terrain. Snowboard packages include both traditional camber and rocker profiles, and boot fitting is handled with precision — particularly important in Hakuba, where cold temperatures demand a snug, well-insulated fit. Clothing hire, helmets, and accessories are available for travellers who prefer to pack light, and multi-day rental discounts are standard.
Penke Panke's strength is the quality of their customer service and local knowledge. Staff are genuinely passionate about skiing and snowboarding in Hakuba and freely share insider tips on which resort to hit based on the day's weather and snow conditions — invaluable advice in a valley with eleven resorts spread across different aspects and elevations. The shop also provides comprehensive English-language information about skiing logistics, transport options, and dining recommendations, making it an ideal first stop for international visitors navigating Hakuba for the first time.
