The Ultimate Guide to Skiing in Hakuba Valley, Japan: Everything You Need to Know
Hakuba Valley, Japan, is a winter wonderland that has captured the hearts of skiers and snowboarders from around the world. With its stunning alpine scenery, deep powder snow, and a variety of ski resorts, Hakuba offers a unique and unforgettable winter sports experience. Plus, if you are an epic pass holder you can receive 5 consecutive days of skiing complementary at any one of the 10 ski resorts in Hakuba.
Hakuba
Hakuba
The Ultimate Guide to Skiin in Hakuba Valley
Best Time To Visit Hakuba
The ski season in Hakuba typically runs from December to early April. Overall the best time to visit is from late January to February because the snow is usually at its peak. However, if you are visiting and consider yourself a beginner, late December to early January is perfect because the conditions are gentle and forgiving. Plus, the mountains will be less crowded. We went for New Year’s Eve and the mountains weren’t empty by any means but they definitely weren’t crowded. For any advanced or expert riders, late February to March is a great time to visit because it has the best powder conditions making it perfect for those who love deep, untouched snow. Although we went earlier in the season, the snowfall was still pleasantly abundant, so any month you choose will still be a great time to visit. Remember that the peak season, spanning from January to February, calls for bookings of accommodations and lift passes.
Getting to Hakuba Valley
Bus Ride to Hakuba
Bus Ride to Hakuba
Hakuba Valley Accomodations
Hakuba Valley in Japan boasts diverse areas to stay in, each offering its own unique appeal. Your ideal choice depends on your preferences. Happo Village, particularly around Happo-One, is the heart of the action, perfect for those who want a bustling, central location. Echoland is renowned for its vibrant après-ski scene and abundant dining and entertainment options. For a quieter retreat, Wadano, adjacent to Happo-One, provides a serene atmosphere while maintaining accessibility. Goryu and Iimori cater well to families and beginner skiers, with easy access to slopes suitable for all levels. Selecting the best area depends on your priorities, be it skiing convenience, nightlife, dining, or ambiance.
Opting for our stay in the Wadano area seemed like a good idea initially, but we soon found ourselves regretting the choice. While it offered the advantage of being within walking distance of one mountain and having shuttle stops nearby for easy access to other ski areas, we realized that it meant taking a taxi to reach dining and entertainment options.
Morino Lodge in Hakuba Valley, Japan, stands out as the best budget-friendly option for travelers seeking both affordability and quality in their accommodations. With competitive rates, the lodge ensures you can enjoy the beauty and adventure of Hakuba without straining your budget. Despite its budget-friendly status, Morino Lodge doesn’t skimp on comfort, offering cozy and well-maintained rooms for a comfortable retreat after a day on the slopes. What sets this lodge apart is its warm and friendly atmosphere, attentive staff, and hospitable environment that enhances your overall stay. Conveniently located within walking distance to Hakuba Happo One Ski Resort or a public shuttle located at the Tokyu Hotel which is across the street. The only problem with this hotel is at night it isn’t within walking distance to many food or entertainment spots so if that is of interest to you, I would suggest looking at the below accommodation option.
Cozy Morino Lodge
Cozy Morino Lodge
Petit Hotel Enchante is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Echoland, Hakuba, offering a superb option for those seeking an enchanting stay in this picturesque winter wonderland. This boutique hotel exudes charm and hospitality, with a cozy and intimate atmosphere that welcomes travelers with open arms. What sets Petit Hotel Enchante apart as a great option in, Hakuba, is its strategic location. Echoland is a vibrant and lively area, brimming with dining, entertainment, and après-ski options. Staying here means you’re at the heart of the action, with numerous conveniences within walking distance. Additionally, the hotel offers easy access to shuttle stops, which can swiftly transport you to the various ski resorts in the Hakuba Valley, making it a convenient choice for avid skiers and snowboarders.
Chalet
In Hakuba, a “chalet” typically refers to a type of lodging that’s a standalone, cabin-like structure, offering a unique and private accommodation experience. Chalets are especially ideal when traveling with a group or family for several reasons. Chalets are often more spacious than traditional hotel rooms, providing ample room for groups or families. With separate bedrooms, common areas, and private facilities, everyone can enjoy their space and privacy. Chalets frequently come with fully-equipped kitchens. This is a significant advantage, allowing you to prepare your meals, cater to dietary preferences, and save money on dining out. There are plenty of Chalets throughout Hakube so they offer convenient locations to the best skiing in Japan.
Ski Resorts in Hakuba Valley
Hakuba Valley in Japan is home to multiple ski resorts, each offering its unique character and terrain. In total, there are around nine major ski resorts in the Hakuba Valley. These resorts collectively make Hakuba one of the most popular and diverse skiing destinations in Japan, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Some of the well-known resorts in the Hakuba Valley include Happo-One, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, and more. These resorts offer a wide range of slopes, terrain parks, and winter sports activities, making Hakuba Valley a sought-after destination for winter enthusiasts.
Happo-One
Happo-One is the largest and most famous ski resort in Hakuba, known for its varied terrain suitable for all skill levels. It offers a mix of gentle slopes for beginners, challenging runs for experts, and everything in between. However, the runs here can be very steep and overwhelming even for the beginner slopes. Happo-One hosted the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Pro tip: go to Sakka at the base where there will be food trucks and drinks available.
Happo-One
Happo-One
Hakuba Goryu
Goryu offers a range of terrain, with an emphasis on catering to families and intermediate skiers. The Iimori area is great for beginners, while the Toomi area is known for its excellent night skiing. The upper slopes provide more challenging runs.
Hakuba 47
Hakuba 47 is interconnected with Goryu and shares similar terrain characteristics. It’s particularly appreciated for its terrain parks and freestyle features, making it popular among snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
Iwatake
This was our favorite ski resort because it offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort features a good balance of gentle groomed slopes for beginners and ungroomed runs for the more advanced. Plus, this mountain is known in Hakuba for having the best alpine scenery. Pro tip: take a ramen break at the restaurant at the top of the mountain.
Iwatake
Selfie at Iwatake
Off-Piste Adventures
We didn’t partake in any off-piste adventures but Hakuba, Japan, is renowned for its incredible off-piste skiing and snowboarding opportunities. It is a great destination for adventurous winter sports enthusiasts since it is surrounded by pristine backcountry terrain. There are numerous professional guiding services available to help you safely explore this untouched wilderness. Popular backcountry routes include Tsugaike Kogen, Norikura, and the surrounding mountains of Hakuba, where you can enjoy deep powder and stunning scenery.
Hakuba Valley Winter Activities (besides skiing/snowboarding):
Snowmobiling
For an adrenaline rush, consider a snowmobiling adventure. Ride through the snow-covered backcountry and enjoy the thrill of speeding across the winter terrain.
Onsen (Hot Springs)
Snowshoeing
Explore the serene and picturesque winter landscapes of Hakuba by strapping on a pair of snowshoes. Guided tours are available, taking you through pristine forests and offering breathtaking mountain views. Some operators offer guided night tours, allowing you to explore the snow-covered wilderness under the starry skies. It’s a unique and memorable experience
Downtown Happo-One
Found in Downtown Happo-One Area
Snow Monkey Park
A short trip from Hakuba, you can visit the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Watch Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) as they relax in the natural hot springs, creating a delightful and picturesque scene. We went on an amazing tour which included the Zenkoji Temple and sake tasting along with seeing the snow monkeys.
Snow Monkeys
Zenkoji Temple
Après-Ski Dining/Bars:
Takahashi-ke
The best ramen in Hakuba. Located in the Goryu neighborhood the restaurant has a charming and cozy atmosphere. There is usually always a wait but it is worth it.
Maeda Soba Noodle Shop
Maeda is a famous soba noodle shop that offers the best soba noodles in Hakuba. It definitely lived up to its name. It is located in Happo One village and is cash only. Plus it is only open for 3 hours during lunch. The restaurant has a traditional Japanese setting, so your shoes (or ski boots) have to come off at the door. Don’t miss out on this it was one of my favorite meals I had this trip.
Bernd’s Keller
Bernd’s Keller is a German-style restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere inside and a beautiful outdoor patio that is at the foot of the Happo One ski resort. It is a Biergarten that offers excellent cheese fondue. We went here on New Year’s Eve because they had a live band and once it hit 12, there were fireworks outside on the mountain.
Waygu Kobeya
Wagyu Kobeya, an esteemed restaurant in Hakuba, Japan, is celebrated for its dedication to the art of serving top-quality Wagyu beef. It was our favorite meal the entire trip. Wagyu, known for its rich marbling and exquisite flavor, takes center stage here. The beef is often prepared teppanyaki-style, where a skilled chef cooks or you can cook the meat on a hot griddle right at the table. Plus they have a complimentary shuttle to and from your hotel. Definitely make a reservation in advance!
Happo-One
Happo-One
The Pub
The Pub is a traditional European-style pub that is located next to Momonoki Hotel. It has 3 floors with pool tables, darts, and even DJs.
Holy Smokes
Holy Smokes is Hakuba’s only speakeasy bar and is a very popular spot to drink. It is located in Echoland off the main strip. You will want to look for a vending machine as that is the door to the bar.
Pingback: Hakuba Valley's Best Restaurants and Bars for this Ski Season: Après-Ski Delights - travelingoodies