Hakuba is a world-renowned skiing destination celebrated for its exceptional snow conditions. Blessed with abundant powder snow, the region attracts skiers and snowboarders seeking thrilling experiences on its extensive network of over 200 runs. The diverse terrain accommodates all skill levels, from beginners to advanced, making Hakuba an ideal destination for both novices and seasoned winter sports enthusiasts.
Hakuba’s popularity extends beyond its excellent skiing opportunities. The area offers a range of off-slope activities, including relaxing onsens (hot springs) that provide a perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes. The charming village setting adds to the appeal, with picturesque views of the Japanese Alps creating a stunning backdrop for winter adventures.
The nightlife and apres-ski scene in Hakuba contribute to its allure. The village boasts a vibrant atmosphere with numerous bars, restaurants, and izakayas where visitors can savor local cuisine and socialize with fellow enthusiasts. Whether enjoying a traditional Japanese meal or dancing the night away, Hakuba provides a lively and diverse après-ski experience.
One of the reasons Hakuba stands out among other Japanese resorts is its accessibility. Situated relatively close to Tokyo, travelers can easily reach Hakuba by train or bus, making it a convenient choice for those looking to escape the city for a winter retreat. With its perfect blend of powder snow, varied terrain, off-slope activities, and lively après-ski options, Hakuba continues to be a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable Japanese skiing experience.
Quick Trip Overview
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Experience:
Guide to Skiing Hakuba
Is Hakuba good for beginners? Hakuba offers a range of slopes suitable for beginners, making it a good destination for those new to skiing or snowboarding.
- Location: Hakuba is located in the Northern Alps of Japan, in the Nagano Prefecture.
- Where do you fly to for Hakuba?: The nearest major airport is Tokyo’s Narita International Airport, and from there, you can take a train or bus to Hakuba.
- Amount of runs: Hakuba offers over 200 runs across its multiple ski resorts.
- What’s the altitude of Hakuba?: The base elevation is around 700 meters, and the ski resorts in the area reach elevations of approximately 1,800 meters.
- When does Hakuba Open?: The ski season in Hakuba typically starts in early December and runs through late April.
- When does Hakuba Close?: The closing time is usually in late April, at the end of the ski season.
- What time do the lifts open at Hakuba?: Lifts generally open around 8:30 AM.
- Skiing Hakuba is Best Known for: Hakuba is renowned for its deep powder snow, diverse terrain, and hosting events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics.
If you didn’t feel like lugging your ski equipment with you on the journey to Hakuba there are locations that you can rent form:
- Rhythm Japan – just like Niseko, this is the most popular rental agency in the Hakuba valley. Located right next to the Evergreen Touring company, you will frequently find people here. Additionally, they offer shuttles to and from your hotel so that you can pick up and drop off your gear.
- Spicy Rental – Another popular one – as you will see the tag “Spicy” all over the place. Located in Echoland so if you are staying in that popular area of Hakuba this may be a better rental option.
- Your options for ski lessons are just about endless at Hakuba. You can find different companies at the various resorted that were listed previously but here are a couple of options:
Hakuba, nestled in the Northern Alps of Japan, not only boasts world-class skiing but also offers a vibrant après-ski scene that adds to the overall winter experience. After a thrilling day on the slopes, visitors can explore the charming village and discover a variety of lively establishments for post-skiing entertainment. Traditional Japanese izakayas, cozy pubs, and modern bars provide diverse options for socializing and enjoying the evening.
For those seeking a taste of local culture, izakayas like Sharaku and Ohyokkuri serve up delicious Japanese dishes alongside a selection of sake and other beverages. Alternatively, places like The Rabbit Hole and Tracks Bar offer a more international vibe with a mix of cocktails, craft beers, and lively atmospheres. Visitors can choose to unwind in a laid-back setting or dance the night away in one of Hakuba’s energetic nightclubs.
The après-ski options in Hakuba cater to a variety of preferences, ensuring that every visitor finds the perfect spot to relax and socialize. Whether savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying a drink with friends, or experiencing the local nightlife, Hakuba’s après-ski scene adds a dynamic and memorable dimension to the overall winter adventure.
- There is a lot of nightlife options at Hakuba so if that is something you seek for your ski trip to Hakuba, you will find a majority of it in the area of the valley called Echoland.A lot of people seem to start off at these locations:
- Rabbit hole – large drink menu and bar option
- Blizzard – large bar as well
To eat, and start the night off drinking with some live music, and then head over to the more late-night establishments.
Popular late-night Bars:
- Jacks Bar – a small establishment, but hold various events from live music to trivia. If you are looking to watch a sporting event this is also the best location for that!
- Bar Refuel – one of the few bars that are open until the late hours, if you are looking to party all night long in Echoland then this is probably your best option.
- Beach Bar – not located in Echoland, this is a great option for if you are starting the night at Rabbit hole. Just slide your way down the hill to this beach-themed bar.
- If you are interested in partaking in some other winter activities other than skiing or snowboarding during your ski trip to Hakuba then you can find in the area:
- Snowshoeing
- Snowmobiling
- Snowrafting
- Ice skating
Also, a popular attraction in the area is visiting the famous snow monkeys. Most hotels in the area have postings where you can organize with a company to take a day trip to visit the monkeys that have become famous for hanging out in hot springs during the winter months.
Hakuba is quickly growing in popularity. Each year more visitors are making the trip out to the Hakuba resort area. Currently, the main resort Happo One is completely manageable under the crowds – even on bluebird days.
However, you will find the other mountain resorts are not as well equipped for the large influx of visitors. On bluebird days lines at the smaller outlining resorts can be waits of upwards of 20-30 minutes as most only have a handful of four-seat lifts.
Bus and train are the two primary options for making sure you reach your ski trip.
- Train. This option is a bit faster than the bus and has more options for time. However, you will have to change station a total of three times to get to Hakuba. If you are bringing your equipment with you, this can ultimately be a bit more hassle than it is worth to save time.
- Narita to Tokyo Express Train: 1 hour for ¥2,000 – ¥3,200
- Tokyo to Nagano Bullet train: 1 hour and 30 minutes for ¥8,200
- Nagano to Hakuba bus: 1 hour for ¥1,800
- Total time: 4 hours roughly with transitions and wait times, and total cost: ¥13,200
- Check train times with HyperDia.
- Bus. This option is cheaper and more convenient than transferring trains. However, it is the longer option as it takes upwards of 6 hours to make the commute from Narita airport out to Hakuba. Just search for shuttle bus options out from Narita to Hakuba and you will find a variety of companies with different times for the season, opt for the one that fits your flight landing or departure time – you may have to schedule two separate bus companies. The upside of these options is the free wifi for the six-hour journey – oh and don’t worry you’ll make two rest stops during your trip!
- Time: 6 hours, Cost: ¥6,000
- Shuttle Companies: Alpico and Ski Hakuba
- Recommend booking shuttle buses two weeks in advance as they will book out fast.
Hakuba has a very reliable shuttle system. There are two different routes that have the same stops, just run the opposite direction from each other. Just check the posted schedule and jump onto the correct number bus and you will quickly head off to where you need to be. The primary two buses are Bus one, and Bus two. If you are getting on a bus the driver will normally ask where you are going, if the bus is going the wrong direction (or the long route to get there since it’s a loop) they will tell you to wait for the next one.
I used the bus a couple of times, but typically just walked everywhere. Even if you are staying on the opposite side of town, the longest the walk is typically 30 minutes. However, most of the roads seem to always be going uphill so you will get a bit of a calf workout.
If you want an affordable ski destination in Japan then Hakuba is a great option for that. The fact that it is a bit farther from major airports has managed to keep the price down – for now. Overall, in comparison to Niseko, this is the much cheaper option as you can spend as little as $300 towards lodging for four nights in Hakuba.
Weather at Hakuba
Is Hakuba snow sure? Hakuba is renowned for its consistent and abundant snowfall, making it a snow-sure destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Situated in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba experiences heavy snowfall from December to March, with January typically being the peak month for snow accumulation. The region’s reliable snow conditions, combined with its extensive ski resorts and diverse terrain, contribute to Hakuba’s reputation as a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. Winter sports enthusiasts can generally expect excellent snow conditions throughout the season, providing a reliable and enjoyable experience on the slopes.
For the amount of powder, Hakuba Valley, Japan does not compete with the northern ski resort Niseko. That is not to say that Hakuba does not get a good amount of snow – Hakuba Valley gets plenty of Japan snow! But it does not get as many snow days and refills as Niseko does.
Hakuba is in the region that has been affectionately named the “Japanese Alps” which is one of the most people places for skiing in Japan. You actually won’t see much snow until you are well into the mountain range – so do not worry if you are headed by train or bus and do not see much powder on the way in!
Hakuba Valley, Japan has the advantage of overall nicer weather than Niseko. If you read my Niseko post (which you can here) you will see that your chances of bluebird days are few and far between as it is almost always constantly snowing. This is the advantage that Niseko has over Hakuba: constant fresh powder. However, the advantage that Hakuba Valley has over Niseko: the sunshine. This makes Hakuba Valley one of the best Japan ski resorts.
The upside that Hakuba has over Niseko: more sunny days. Hakuba has far more sunny days than Niseko does. You are more likely to get a bluebird day while visiting Hakuba over the northern ski resort.
Hakuba Resorts
The Hakuba area is comprised of eight different resorts. These resorts can be accessed primarily through the various shuttles and buses that run from central Hakuba. The variety of ski resorts in the Hakuba Valley is another rest why Hakuba Valley is one of the best places to ski in Japan. Make sure to check the various bus schedules and shuttle schedules to see which resorts are visited.
Here is a little about each of the resorts that you can opt to visit during your stay at Hakuba:
- Happo One – This is the main, and major resort. This is the largest, and most centrally located resort in the Hakuba area. This is also where the 1988 Winter Olympics were held (and you can tell with the Olympic signs all over the roads still). Happo One offers the longest groomed run in the valley with the longest being 8km. If you want long, groomed runs, then this is the resort for you.
- Hakuba 47 and Goryu – These two resorts are linked and can be accessed with the same lift ticket. Hakuba 47, the newest resort, is most popular for the large snow park that is there. This is the only spot where you can find a half pipe in Hakuba. There are plenty of wide intermediate slopes here, and a small beginner slope option at the bottom of the resort. If you are interested in tree runs at Hakuba 47 then you have to attend a course and wear a bib – if you are caught without the bib they will pull your lift pass.
- Iwatake – This resort is on its own mountain with views of the Japan Alps range. This resort has options of skiing all sides of the mountain – due to this Iwatake is a great option for poor visibility and high wind days as you can opt for a different side of the mountain.
- Tsugaike Kogen – If you are a beginner, then this may be the best option for you. Located 10km north of Happo One, this resort has some long runs that can compare to Happo One but with more gradual gradients. This means the resort caters a bit more to a wider range of abilities. Additionally, in the March timeframe, there is heli-skiing offered at a very low cost.
- Norikura – If you are looking to enjoy some fresh snow – but avoid the crowds at Cortina – then Norikura will be your best option. This is also a great resort for if you are new to fresh powder as there are more gradual gradients here compared to Cortina.
- Cortina – Most well known for the Cortina hotel that you will find littered all over Instagram. This resort is well known for powder tree runs. There are limited lifts here and crowds can be very long on bluebird days. However, it is known for having almost no out of bound areas so if you want to tree ski then this resort is where you will want to visit.
- Kasimayra Sports Village – Great option for beginner skiers, and the only location for night skiing in the area.
- Hakuba Sanosaka – This is known as the family-friendly resort – with views of Lake Aoki. While this is the smallest of the parks, it is great for beginners.
Ultimately, the large variety of ski resorts gives visitors to Hakuba valley numerous locations to chase Japan snow and powder. This is what makes Hakuba must visit for skiing in Japan.
Backcountry
As previously stated, Hakuba Valley is in the region that has been nicknamed the “Japanese Alps”. This roaming mountain range means one thing – a lot of backcountry. There are a number of resorts that make up the Hakuba area, so there is no limit to backcountry options. The limitless backcountry options makes Hakuba Valley one of the best places to ski in Japan.
The most popular company to go backcountry skiing in the area:
The company is conveniently located next to one of the rental companies in the area: Rhythm Japan. The company has numerous options for where to go touring and even offers beginner backcountry options. You are expected to get a brief the day prior, and then head out for the slopes the next morning.
Additionally, Evergreen offers off-piste options where you can use the lift systems at the various resorts. From there the guides take you to “secret stashes” across the resorts. Hakuba has a lot of tree runs in the side country, and across the area so this is a great option if you are not looking to go touring.
Night Skiing at Hakuba
Hakuba offers an enchanting experience with its night skiing, adding a magical touch to the snowy landscape. Several resorts in Hakuba provide night skiing opportunities, allowing visitors to extend their time on the slopes well into the evening. The illuminated trails create a surreal atmosphere as skiers and snowboarders carve through the snow under the stars.
One of the popular spots for night skiing is Happo-One, where certain slopes are equipped with powerful lighting systems. This unique experience not only allows enthusiasts to enjoy the thrill of night riding but also provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Night skiing typically extends until around 9:00 PM, offering a different perspective and a serene ambiance compared to daytime activities. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a memorable and picturesque skiing experience in the heart of the Japanese Alps. As always, visitors should check with specific resorts for the most up-to-date information on night skiing schedules and availability.
Where to Eat at Hakuba
There are a lot of places to eat at in the Hakuba valley area, and it is growing each year as the visitor growth continues. But here are a couple of my favorites:
- Food trucks by Happo One Adam Gondola – if you are not looking to spend too much money during your trip then this is a great option. There are about eight different food trucks just outside the main gondola for Happo One. Offer from traditional Japanese snacks, ramen, to kebabs. There is a heated tent that you can sit in after purchasing your snack. The food trucks do not open until 1600 and close around 2200.
- Blizzard Pizza – just opening in the 2018 and 2019 season, this place is quickly growing in popularity. Right across the street from the food trucks is this Italian pizza joint. You will find authentic pizza here, and at a fair price. The restaurant is laid out with old skis being used as a panel for the wall. There is also frequently live music on the weekends!
- Rabbit Hole – A popular burger joint that offers live music just about every night. Come prepared with a large appetite as the burger is about the size of a person’s head. It is a bit out of the main Hakuba area, but worth the uphill walk. This place is also popular for breakfast and coffee options.
- Fireside Lounge – If you are looking for a bit fancier night out then this is a great place for you. Sip cocktails or enjoy a glass of wine while listening to some jazz.
- Izakaya Kaz – if you want more traditional food, then enjoy this place for “Japanese Tapas” you will be served a bunch of tiny food options and all are delicious.
- Maeda – if you are hunting for a bowl of ramen then look no further, as this is a great place to visit.
Cultural Experience
Compared to Niseko, there are far more cultural opportunities in Hakuba. However, it is quickly diminishing each year as more and more tourist and expats start visiting and living in the area. A lot of people say that they do not visit Niseko due to the fact that so many Australians are there now – but I would say that Hakuba has about the same number of Australians there as Niseko.
You will find a lot of Australians working at the ski and snowboard industry tours and lessons. However, a lot of restaurants and hotels are still operated by the Japanese. You are also more likely to find Japanese visiting from Tokyo on the weekend than at Niseko.
Where to Stay in Hakuba
Hakuba is full of cheap lodging options. There are hostels, and then there are hotels. A lot of the hotels are basically the same and really just look the same. I would say that unlike Niseko there are not really any “resort” hotel options in Hakuba. Hakuba is more of a budget-friendly destination. Most rooms will have two twin beds and a tiny bathroom that is either private or shared.
For a ski trip to Hakuba check out these hotels:
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Hakuba located, and how do I get there? Hakuba is located in the Japanese Alps, about 275 kilometers northwest of Tokyo. The most common way to reach Hakuba is by taking a train or bus from Tokyo to Nagano and then transferring to a bus to Hakuba.
- When is the best time to visit Hakuba for skiing? The prime skiing season in Hakuba is from December to March when the region experiences heavy snowfall. January, in particular, is known for peak snow conditions.
- How many ski resorts are there in Hakuba? Hakuba is home to multiple ski resorts, including Happo-One, Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba 47, and more, offering diverse terrain and varying levels of difficulty.
- Are there ski schools for beginners in Hakuba? Yes, Hakuba has several ski schools and instructors catering to beginners. Many resorts offer lessons for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
- What are the nightlife and apres-ski options in Hakuba? Hakuba has a vibrant apres-ski scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and izakayas. Popular spots include Echoland and Wadano, offering a mix of Japanese and international establishments.
- Are there non-skiing activities to enjoy in Hakuba? Yes, Hakuba offers various activities, including hot springs (onsen), snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cultural experiences.
- Is Hakuba suitable for families with children? Yes, Hakuba is family-friendly, with resorts providing family-oriented amenities and beginner-friendly slopes for children.
- Are there rental shops for skiing equipment in Hakuba? Absolutely. Hakuba has numerous rental shops offering a wide range of skiing and snowboarding equipment for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
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