Japan, The Mountains
December 27, 2023

How To Spend New Year’s Eve in Hakuba Valley, Japan

Experience a New Year’s Eve in Japan like no other in the snowy paradise of Hakuba Valley. This world-famous ski destination in Japan has become a winter wonderland, offering a unique blend of exhilarating winter sports and rich Japanese New Year traditions. New Year’s is not just a fun time to be in Japan but will also offer an adventurous one. 

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Morino Lodge in Hakuba Valley, Japan, offers budget-friendly accommodations with cozy rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a convenient location near Hakuba Happo One Ski Resort. While it’s perfect for daytime adventures, it’s worth noting that dining and entertainment options are a bit farther away in the evenings but still only a quick taxi ride away. For new years, we actually were able to walk back to Morino Lodge from our late night adventures in Happo One.

How To Spend New Year’s Eve in Hakuba Valley

First: Hit The slopes

Celebrate New Year’s Eve by skiing in Hakuba’s top ski resorts. Since the region is known for its powdery snow and apres ski, it is a perfect place to celebrate the end of a year and the beginning of a new one. I would suggest skiing at the Happo-One resort because it has a lot of options for food and drinks! 

Happo-One

HOW TO SPEND NEW YEAR’S EVE IN HAKUBA

Happo-One

Second: Enjoy a late Lunch and Apres Ski at the Sakka base Food Trucks

Nestled at the base of the majestic Happo One ski resort, the Sakka food trucks offer a gourmet paradise for skiers and snowboarders. This vibrant culinary hub, uniquely positioned in the heart of Hakuba’s premier ski area, provides an eclectic mix of local and international flavors. The lively atmosphere, combined with the stunning backdrop of snowy mountains, makes the Sakka area at Happo One a perfect spot for a meal break, plus one for a New Year’s celebration. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a hearty meal, the food trucks at Sakka, Happo One cater to all tastes, adding a delightful twist to your skiing experience in Hakuba.

HOW TO SPEND NEW YEAR’S EVE IN HAKUBA

Food truck in Happo-One Town

Happo-One Town

Third: After a day of skiing, go to an onsen

A Hakuba Onsen experience is the perfect way to relax after a long day of skiing and to prepare yourself for a fun night out. The onsen experience in Hakuba Valley is a blend of relaxation and cultural immersion, integral to the Japanese winter holiday experience. There’s nothing more rejuvenating than soaking in a natural hot spring in Hakuba. These thermal baths, rich in minerals, are renowned for their health benefits and soothing properties. The experience is about relaxation and embracing a centuries-old tradition that represents Japanese hospitality and wellness. It was a highlight of my ski trip to Hakuba. Check out my Hakuba Valley Ultimate Guide to learn more about the onsens offered in this beautiful ski town.

Fourth: Dinner and Drinks at Bernd’s Keller

Bernd’s Keller Restaurant in Hakuba stands as a beacon of gastronomic excellence and a perfect spot for New Year’s Eve celebrations. This renowned restaurant is celebrated for its fusion of authentic German cuisine and local Japanese flavors, offering a unique dining experience in the Hakuba dining scene. At Bernd’s Keller, you can savor the hearty flavors of dishes like schnitzel and bratwurst, perfectly paired with a selection of fine wines and local Japanese sake. Although it wasn’t my favorite of Hakuba Valley’s eateries, it was perfect for New Year’s Eve. We got a reservation around 9 pm and enjoyed fondue, wagyu steak, and hot wine. They had plenty of hot wine available! Shortly after 9 pm, they brought in a band to play live music which made it an unforgettable dining experience during our trip to Hakuba.

Hakuba Valley's Best Restaurants

Fondue at Bernds

A5 Waygu at Bernds

fifth: Countdown and Fireworks at Happo-One 

The reason Bernd’s Keller Restaurant is perfect for New Year’s Eve is because it is right next to the Happo-One Nakiyama slope which is where everyone gathers for the New Year’s countdown and fireworks. When it got close to the New Year we were able to leave our table at Bernd’s to go right outside and countdown with everyone else who had gathered there. Then right after it hit midnight, Hakuba sets off fireworks making it a beautiful experience! Plus it was also snowing which made it even more magical. After that, you can head back into Bernd’s for more drinks or go to another bar. 

Nakiyama Slope

HOW TO SPEND NEW YEAR’S EVE IN HAKUBA

Nakiyama Slope

sixth: Go to One of hakuba’s bars

Ring in the New Year with a vibrant celebration at The Pub in Hakuba, a popular destination known for its lively atmosphere and festive charm. As one of the most sought-after New Year’s Eve spots in Hakuba, The Pub offers an unforgettable experience with its mix of great music, friendly crowds, and a wide selection of drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for craft beers, fine wines, or creative cocktails, The Pub caters to all tastes, making it a hit among both locals and visitors. The energetic ambiance is perfect for those looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve in a fun and social setting. The Pub also features live music and DJs, adding to the festive spirit and making it one of the top New Year’s party venues in Hakuba Valley. The combination of great company, excellent drinks, and a festive atmosphere makes The Pub an ideal destination for those seeking a memorable New Year’s celebration in Hakuba. For a full curated list of some of the best bars in Hakuba, visit my other blog post, Hakuba Valley’s Best Restaurant and Bars For This Ski Season.
Your New Year’s Eve trip to Hakuba Valley is more than just a skiing adventure; it’s a culturally rich experience that blends thrilling winter sports with the beauty of Japanese New Year traditions.

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