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  • A Complete Guide To Hakuba

    January 11, 2025 14 min read

    A Complete Guide To Hakuba, Japan

    A Complete Guide To Hakuba, Japan

    Written for Auski by Pink Lemonade Social

    Throughout the snow season, almost 200 routes, 135 lifts, and ten distinct resorts are battered by avid skiers and snowboarder, and if it’s your first time, it might seem overwhelming. So here's your guide to Hakuba for first-timers or those looking to plan an upcoming snow trip.

    Some of Japan's best deep powder and ski resorts can be found in the Hakuba Alpine Area, only about three hours from downtown Tokyo. Spread out across three major villages, Japan's largest alpine area offers plenty of options to keep everyone happy. In Japan, it's yuki (the Japanese word for snow), piles up an average of over 11 meters at Hakuba throughout an average year. More tempting perhaps is the fact that with Epic Pass, pass holders can ski for free for five days at any of Hakuba's resorts.
    Deciding how to best access Hakuba’s more than 100 ski lifts, which service various kinds of terrain appropriate for all levels of skill, choosing from more than 30 onsens or hot springs, and over 200 different accommodation options are the main decisions with which skiers and snowboarders will need to wrestle. Check out our Guide to the Best Hakuba Onsen!


    Similar to Niseko, Hakuba offers huge variety in terms of Western cuisine and quality accommodation. If you like to travel that way, you can get by without knowing a word of Japanese because most eateries and accommodation options have staff members who understand English. But some secret powder stashes and unique cultural experiences remain undiscovered to the rest of the world. Hello beers from the vending machine!


    First time to Hakuba? Don't miss out on the best parts — read on for our guide on visiting Hakuba.

     


    Guide to Hakuba: 3 Main Villages


    Hakuba is truly a winter wonderland, with its renowned deep Japanese powder and an abundance of resorts that cater to skiers and travellers of all kinds. There are actually three main bases that visitors to Hakuba Valley can use - Hakuba Village, Omachi City, and Otari Village. Each of these bases provides access to the mountain resorts and allows you to purchase a Hakuba Valley Day Pass. This pass grants skiers and boarders access to 10 resorts on one pass, as well as the convenience of using the Hakuba Valley shuttle bus to travel between them. If you're curious about how to navigate this incredible destination, here's a quick overview of each village and its unique attractions that will captivate different types of travellers.

    Hakuba Village

    Easily accessed from central Tokyo by the shinkansen  to Nagano, and then by bus, straight to Hakuba Village, this is one of the most sought-after places for skiing/snowboarding in Japan. Convenient access to the snow, especially at Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort is favoured by families because of its on-mountain childcare facilities and by expert skiers/snowboarders who enjoy challenging slopes. Hakuba Village also has a range of ski-in, ski-out accommodation choices available. Hakuba Villahe is very scenic, with its serene snow-laden streets and spectacular views of huge mountains and Aoki-ko Lake. It's a serene sanctuary for beginners and intermediates alike, where you can be astounded at on-mountain views.

    Hakuba Village is convenient for trips north to the Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field and the contiguous Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park and ABLE Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort. It offers a wide variety of accommodation types, including luxurious hotel rooms, self-contained apartments, and backpacker-style hostels. One of the reasons Hakuba Village is so popular with international visitors is that it's very accessible, even for those who are new to Japan and might not be comfortable with the culture and/or the language.Hakuba Village is very international visitor-friendly. It goes without saying that most of the locals here speak English. You'll also find that many menus from bars and restaurants come in an English version. Even the local onsen, or hot-spring baths, are very used to receiving international visitors.The international appeal of Hakuba Village ensures a lively après-ski scene, with convenient bars in most hotels for that after-ski drink. The village has loads of great Western-style pubs and local izakayas ( a casual Japanese bar that serves alcoholic drinks, food and snacks) that really come to life during the ski season.

    Hakuba Village, Hakuba, Japan
    Ski Life at Hakuba Village

    Image: Instagram / hakubalife

    Located in Omachi city of Nagano, Mt. Takagari is one of the top spots for viewing Northern Alps!
    The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a scenic mountain route that connects Ogizawa Station in Omachi City with Tateyama Station in Toyama Prefecture.

    Image: Instagram / visit_omachi_city

    Omachi City

    Omachi City is much larger than the village of Hakuba, and it lies about a half-hour bus ride to the south. It makes access to the southernmost resorts easy, including Jigatake and Kashimayari. The Jigatake Snow Resort offers a paradise for those who are in love with snow slopes and are beginners at skiing or snowboarding. It provides huge, smooth runs that are always agreeably uncrowded. On the other hand, Kashimayari Snow Resort delivers an exciting experience with its stunning 5000 meters of downhill terrain, allowing breathtaking views of the mighty Japanese Alps. The open runs of Jigatake are absolutely perfect for families with beginners.

     

    Omachi City is a friendly and inviting town, not too large in size, yet fully equipped with city amenities. This area offers its guests ryokan accommodation options, a typical Japanese inn with an onsen bath and savory Japanese meals for both breakfast and dinner. Most of the ryokans are located in the vicinity of Omachi Onsenkyo, a scenic hot-spring district sprinkled with picturesque outdoor baths. These serene oases provide the perfect place to relax and recharge after an adrenaline-filled day on the slopes. When it comes to the nightlife, Shinano-Ōmachi Gourmet Street is always crowded in the evenings.This lively street is filled with every kind of restaurant imaginable and izakaya; it's simply a heaven for local Ōmachi specialties such as steamed vegetable dumplings, Ōmachi-style Japanese curry, and elegant local sake, highly reputed to rank among the top in Japan.

     

    Otari Village

    Otari Village is a haven for powder hounds. If you are going to Japan and you live for the best snow conditions in the country, then Otari Village needs to be on your list. It's one of those beautiful places that gets showered in incredible amounts of snowfall. Located next to Hakuba Cortina Snow Resort, it receives very heavy snowfalls, and at the same time, it also possesses reliable powder-ski conditions. Cortina has gained a lot of fame for its brilliant back-country access and the thrilling tree skiing that it offers. In addition, it has the added convenience of lift and ski run access to the adjacent Hakuba Norikura Onsen Snow Resort. Mt Jigatake is located in the south of Hakuba Valley and is recommended for beginners in either skiing or snowboarding. This resort provides various wide-open slopes, suitable for beginners and novices.

     

    Otari Village itself is a quaint and peaceful location — the perfect place to relax and spend your time off from an action-packed day on the slopes. Here you can choose from nine different onsen, all with great views of the surrounding alpine beauty. Otari also hosts a spate of traditional restaurants, while those keen for a little more happening night scene take the evening shuttle bus 15 minutes to Tsugaike Mountain Resort for a few drinks with the après crowd. Serene and authentic, Otari provides the ideal destination for a Japan ski scene for couples and families alike, promising long-lasting memories.

     

    Otari Village in Hakuba, Japan
    ski lifts and ski fields at Otari Village in Hakuba

    Image: Instagram / otari_village_information


    Guide To Hakuba: When To Go Skiing & Snowboard in Japan

    Guide To Hakuba: When To Go Skiing & Snowboard in Japan

    When to go to Hakuba

    In the winter, Hakuba's 10 resorts are blanketed with a fine layer of light, dry snow. Imagine the sort of snow which would dance away in the wind as you try to pack it into a snowball. It's this Hakuba powder which is so wonderful to ride. For guaranteed powder, plan a trip in January or February. While the slopes get busy during the January school holidays, they quieten down considerably in late February and March. Remember, the cost of accommodation tends to fall in the second half of February, while plenty of fresh powder remains to be had.

    In the past few years, the snow season has been somewhat of a late starter, with no snow falling until December. Don't fret too much if there's not much snow in December. There's a saying that goes, "once the Japanese powder window opens, it stays open."


    Guide To Hakuba: How To Get There

    There are many airlines that fly daily to Tokyo, with Qantas and Jetstar being just a couple. Be on the lookout for sales to really get cheap flightsy. If you go with Jetstar, be aware of the allowances on luggage and make sure to double-check the fine print when you're buying your tickets. You'll usually need to pay for extra, bigger pieces of luggage. Particularly if you're a road warrior with a ski or snowboarding bag, advance planning can help you avoid some of those hefty fees at the airport.

    Getting to Hakuba from Tokyo is quite easy. Once you're in Tokyo, you can get to Hakuba by catching a bullet train or a bus for a quick and convenient journey. Jump on the bullet train, whisking you off to Nagano in less than three hours. Then, buses or shuttles at hand will whisk you off to the beautiful slopes. Of course, there are some pluses and minuses to this train journey. Riding a 300km/h bullet train may be exciting for those experiencing it first. The journey could get a bit problematic at times due to too many connections and the hassle of baggage. Also on some heavy snow days there may be delays or cancellations of bullet trains.

    Alternatively you can book an airport transfer with Nagano Snow Shuttle Buses for less hassle. Sure, it takes a bit longer—about five hours—but it's much cheaper and easier than navigating train stations with your suitcases.


    Guide to Hakuba: Snow Resort Info & Where to Stay

    Guide to Hakuba: Snow Resort Info & Where to Stay

    For a full and complete breakdown of Hakuba’s Resorts, read our Guide to the Best Hakuba Ski Resorts.

    The main resort of Happo-One's (all too often mistakenly pronounced "Happo-one," but it is actually "oh-nay") is sprawled out close to town and is prone to crowds. Strewn across the slopes means that exposed areas and places above the tree line can be windy and icy. One positive is that there are plenty of chances to ski or board untouched powder soon after a snowfall. This happens frequently in an average Japanese season, roughly every few days.

    The tree skiing in Cortina is just out of this world, and any serious skier must visit this place. It is one of the few places where ski patrol literally permits this kind of activity. Cortina is really a fun, adventurous spot, especially if you're there on a day when some powder can be found. Yet Cortina’s reputation has spread far and wide, making it somewhat crowded on days when perfect powder conditions are present. It is almost a one-hour drive to get there, and the mountain doesn't open until nine in the morning, which proves annoying for early birds who relish hitting the mountains as early as possible.

    Hakuba Goryu and Hakuba 47 are two ski areas providing excellent variety favoured by many Intermediate and Advanced skiers. Snowboarders love 47 for its amazing terrain park. Tsugaike is fabulous in powder, especially among the trees. And for cruising groomers at an easy pace on a sunny day, there is no better place than Iwatake. The view from Iwatake at the top of the mountain is breathtaking, along with the City Bakery, where you can see the whole view of the town and a beautiful panorama of the Japanese Alps.

    One has to be aware, regarding the skiing of powder in Japan, that most of the resorts have rules. Off-piste skiing is generally governed, plus in some places, all attendees need to attend an avalanche briefing to get a tag or some kind of vest that allows access to designated "powder zones." Two such resorts where this applies includes Tsugaike and Goryu. The patrollers are notoriously strict with people who ski under ropes. They will simply take your ski pass. Think of this as your friendly warning.

    Echoland, Happo, and Wadano are the three most popular areas to stay in Hakuba. Most of these are directly on the Happo-One ski slopes, especially at Happo and Wadano. The majority of these hotels also operate shuttle buses in order to get to all the resorts without a hitch. If you would like to maximize the experience in Hakuba, then it may be well worth considering a hotel near one of the shuttle bus stops. This will enable you to access various attractions that are available in the area and the activities involved easily. Besides being convenient, these shuttles offer an easy and free mode of movement to the various resorts. However, if you have a tighter budget and don't mind a little walking, there are some affordable Airbnbs out there in Echoland. Other convenient shuttle stops are right outside the Hakuba Tokyu Hotel, and Phoenix Hotel & Chalets.


    Hakuba Lift Passes

    Guide to Hakuba: Hakuba Lift Passes

    Hakuba has a single-lift ticket to access several of the resorts. You can ride on the local shuttle bus with the Hakuba Valley lift tickets, making it super convenient. If you are staying a while, it may be worth getting a multi-day ticket or even a season pass. There are the 10 ski resorts of Hakuba valley surrounding the central town area. If you want to ski multiple resorts in Hakuba Valley, then the multi-day tickets are a good deal. They offer access to all of the resorts and allow you to ski two resorts in a single day. This comes in particularly handy with resorts like Cortina and Norikura, which are connected by lift access. This is a prime opportunity to get the most out of both resorts. It can also save you some time because you won't have to go and wait in the queue for a ticket each morning. In contrast, for a guest who wants to visit only one of the resorts in a day and is ready to sacrifice that time of standing in the queue for tickets at that resort, it costs slightly cheaper to stand in the queue once at each resort for a single day ticket.


    A delicious meal at Mominoki Hotel in Hakuba

    Image: Instagram / hakubamominokihotel

    Guide To Hakuba: Where To Eat

    Indulge in the finest Wagyu, tasty coffee, and sushi that will have you going back for more. Hakuba delivers with its smorgasbord of great eateries catering for every whim, as well as a range of quaint cafes and lively bars. There are just too many great places to dine in Hakuba, all differing and offering a taste of something phenomenal, so it's pretty hard to pick which one to go for.

    There has been an enormous rise in Western food and accommodation options to cater for the international market. Many of the restaurants have English-speaking staff, meaning you could get by with absolutely no Japanese if that's how you like your travel experience. But there are still plenty of hidden eateries and unique cultural experiences to be enjoyed.

    Mimi's Restaurant and Bar, Mominoki Hotel, and Kikyo-ya are popular amongst Hakuba regulars. Do be warned that during ski season they can get really busy, so try booking at least a day in advance through your hotel or lodge host. You can always drop in after skiing and make a table reservation in person for later. If you want to visit different areas, you can utilize the "Genki-go" night bus which is a great method to keep transportation costs low. Considering all-round experiences, Enchante is definitely one of the best dining options to be sampled. This gastronomic gem is tucked away, in which the flavours of Japan and France intermingle to create a quite different kind of dining experience. Enjoy sublime dining with 5 courses from as little as ¥5,000 per person. These dishes are created with imagination and flair, giving you a truly unique dining experience in Hakuba.

    Marutama Ramen is a brand-new ramen shop that opened in Echoland, offering a very down-to-earth feel with its reasonable pricing and relaxed atmosphere. You’ll also find a range of other ramen restaurants in the area. Hot tip - don't miss the quaint vending machines dotted along the streets and slopes. These sell everything from beer to weird snacks and even coffee in cans. Just another of those bizarre Japanese experiences that are quite essential, up there with their sumptuous heated toilet seats and bidets. Drinks with a red price label will be served hot; those with a blue label will be cold. Bring hot coffee cans in your skiing pockets as a nice stashing trick for keeping your hands warm and staying energised.


    Guide to Hakuba: Hakuba Ski School & Day Tours

    Hakuba offers a plethora of ski schools that cater specifically to English-speaking visitors, giving you a choice of private and group lessons. Most resorts offer lessons in the snow, with most also having children's snow play areas.

    Hakuba has a variety of activities that are non-skiing, making your much-deserved rest days worthwhile. Some off the off-slope activities include marvelling at the enthralling snow monkeys, taste the passion at a sake brewery, sip on green tea at an authentic traditional tea ceremony, rev your engines on a snowmobiling safari, dip yourself into historical flavour at the Matsumoto castle, and sooth your senses at the Zenkoji temple.


    Hakuba for Non-Skiers and Families

    Not everyone hits the slopes – and that’s totally okay. Hakuba offers plenty for non-skiers and families to enjoy while still soaking up the winter wonderland.

    Activities for Non-Skiers:

    • Snowshoeing Tours: Explore peaceful alpine trails at a slower pace. Several tour companies offer guided snowshoe experiences through pine forests and remote areas.

    • Snow Monkey Day Trips: Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park to see Japan’s famous bathing macaques in the snow — a unique winter highlight.

    • Scenic Gondola Rides: Hakuba Happo-One and Tsugaike offer breathtaking gondola rides, even if you're not skiing.

    • Cultural Experiences: Try soba noodle making, sake tastings, or learn to make traditional Japanese crafts.

    • Spa & Wellness: Enjoy massages, facials, or yoga classes at resort spas and wellness centres.

    Family-Friendly Ideas:

    • Sledding hills at Goryu Escal Plaza and Iwatake Snow Field

    • Indoor play centres and arcade games at some hotels

    • Snow rafting and tubing at nearby snow parks

    • Easy ski lessons with English-speaking instructors for kids aged 3+


    Hakuba on a Budget

    Think you need a big budget for Hakuba? Think again. While luxury chalets and ski-in ski-out hotels are available, there are also great ways to do Hakuba affordably.

    Budget-Friendly Accommodation:

    • Hostels & Guesthouses: Look into places like K’s House Hakuba, Hakuba Powder Lodge, or Pension Hayaokidori.

    • Capsule-Style Inns: Found in nearby Matsumoto or Nagano for city breaks en route.

    • Echoland Lodges: Many budget-friendly stays with communal kitchens.

    Saving on Transport:

    • Use the Alpico Bus Pass or regional transport passes

    • Share shuttles or join group airport transfers

    • Stay near shuttle stops to avoid taxis

    Food on a Budget:

    • Local ramen shops, 7-Eleven or Lawson bento boxes

    • Happy hour deals in Echoland and Wadano

    • Food courts at base areas like Goryu and Happo-One

    Money-Saving Tips:

    • Book ski passes in advance for discounts

    • Bring your own gear or rent outside resort bases

    • Travel in early December or mid-March for lower prices

     


    Backcountry & Advanced Skiing in Hakuba

    Backcountry & Advanced Skiing in Hakuba

    For seasoned skiers and snowboarders, Hakuba is a powder paradise with some of Japan’s steepest and most varied terrain.

    Best Resorts for Advanced Riders:

    • Cortina: Famous for deep powder, tree runs, and liberal off-piste access

    • Tsugaike Kogen: Offers epic sidecountry zones and backcountry access

    • Happo-One: High alpine terrain, bowls, and expert groomers

    Backcountry Tips:

    • Hire a guide — avalanche risk is real, and Japanese rules are strict

    • Recommended operators: Evergreen Backcountry Guides, Hakuba Powder Tours, Northern Heights

    • Always carry avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe)

    • Backcountry routes like the Tsugaike Ridge or Happo Back Bowls are legendary — but should not be attempted solo or without a guide

    Gear Rental for Advanced Skiers:

    • Rhythm Japan and Spicy Rentals offer powder skis, splitboards, and safety equipment

    • You can also rent beacon kits and book guided tours through these shops


    Hakuba vs Niseko: Which Is Better?

    Hakuba vs Niseko: Which Is Better?

    Torn between Hakuba and Niseko? Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

    Feature Hakuba Niseko
    Snow Quality Drier inland powder, less consistent than Niseko Super light, deep Hokkaido powder
    Terrain Steep, varied, alpine-style More mellow, tree-lined, ideal for intermediate
    Crowds Less international, quieter slopes Very popular with Aussies and international tourists
    Village Vibe Traditional with Japanese charm More developed, Westernised
    Nightlife Small but authentic Buzzing and modern
    Accessibility 3-5 hrs from Tokyo via train or bus 2.5 hrs from Sapporo Airport
    Best For Adventurers, backcountry lovers Families, first-timers, après lovers

    Verdict:
    Choose Hakuba for dramatic alpine scenery, varied terrain, and a more authentic Japanese experience. Go for Niseko if powder is your priority and you want a more Western-friendly après scene.


    Hakuba FAQ

    When is the best time to ski in Hakuba?

    The best snow conditions are typically from late December to early March. January is peak season with the driest powder. March offers fewer crowds and sunnier days.

    Can beginners ski in Hakuba?

    Yes! Resorts like Hakuba Goryu, Iwatake and Tsugaike Kogen are great for beginners, and English-speaking instructors are widely available.

    Do I need to speak Japanese?

    Not at all. Most ski schools, hotels, and rental shops cater to English speakers — especially in Echoland and Wadano.

    How do I get to Hakuba?

    The easiest route is a shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano, followed by a bus (1 hour). Alternatively, you can take an Alpico bus direct from Shinjuku or arrange an airport shuttle.

    Is there an Ikon or Epic Pass for Hakuba?

    Yes, Hakuba Valley is included on the Epic Pass. It gives limited free days and discounts across partner resorts.

    Can I use credit cards?

    Mostly yes — but carry some yen, especially for smaller restaurants, ryokans, and rural onsens that may be cash-only.

    What should I pack for Hakuba?

    Layers, snow boots, hand warmers, a good winter jacket, and swimwear for onsens. Don’t forget a universal power adapter if you’re coming from outside Japan.

     


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