Hakuba

About Hakuba

Located in the Japanese Alps near Nagano, Hakuba Valley features a number of ski resorts, 11 to be exact, and attracts international skiers. On average every winter, 36 feet of snow blankets Hakuba. The snow isn't quite as dry as Hokkaido, but it's still very worthy of the name "Japow"! Combined, the Hakuba Valley resorts offer skiers 2,372.21 acres of terrain, 93 miles of trails, 200-plus trails and 135 lifts. Plus, jibbers and freestylers can explore nine different terrain parks!

Hakuba Valley, set against the backdrop of the stunning Japanese Alps, is a vibrant hub for winter sports fans with its extensive network of 10 ski resorts connected by a comprehensive shuttle bus service. Its history as a host of the 1998 Winter Olympics adds to its allure, providing world-class facilities and deep powder snow, making it a paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike.

While the resorts aren't connected via slopes, with the exception of Hakuba 47 and Goryu and Cortina and Norikura, there is a shared lift ticket option and shuttle buses make it easy to get to and from each unique base area. When compared to its northern neighbor Hokkaido, Hakuba on average boasts steeper terrain with slightly less in terms of average annual snowfall.

How to get to Hakuba

The easiest way to get to Hakuba is by taking a shuttle bus directly from Tokyo's airports. If you’re already in Tokyo or Kyoto, hop on the bullet train to Nagano city. From there, it’s just a quick one-hour bus or pre-booked taxi ride to the Hakuba Valley ski resort. Fast, smooth, and hassle-free!

Getting around Hakuba is easy with various transportation options, such as free shuttle buses run between ski resorts and accommodations, making it convenient for skiers. If you’re out late, the Night Demand Taxi bus operates from mid-December to the end of February, offering affordable evening transport. While walking is possible, distances can be long, so it’s not always ideal. Renting a car is another viable option if you prefer more flexibility. Taxis are available, and you can book them via local companies like Alps Daiichi Kotsu and Hakuba Kanko Taxi.

Skiing in Hakuba

In general, the wide variety of ski resorts ensures every stripe of skier and snowboarder can find their preferred slope, however certain Hakuba resorts are ideal for certain interests/ability levels. All the Hakuba resorts offer ideal beginner and intermediate slopes, and there are moguls aplenty. However, if you're seeking powder, be sure to head to Cortina, which takes a more relaxed approach to tree skiing. Many of the resorts ban tree skiing.

That said, if you don't mind putting in some sweat equity for your powder turns, the Hakuba backcountry is a don't-miss experience. Be sure to hire a guide (which Ski.com can recommend to you) for optimal safety and enjoyment.

Beginner Skiing in Hakuba, Japan

Tsugaike Kogen stands out as the top choice for complete beginners, with wide, gentle slopes that make learning easy and enjoyable. Hakuba Goryu and Imori rank next for their beginner-friendly terrain, while Iwatake provides a great range for those transitioning to intermediate skiing.

Family vacations in Hakuba

Hakuba stands out as an ideal family-friendly getaway, boasting a plethora of activities and amenities to delight every member of the family. The area is dotted with resorts featuring slopes suitable for children, top-notch ski schools, and comprehensive childcare services, ensuring a worry-free experience for parents.

For those preferring adventures off the skis, traversing Hakuba's breathtaking winter scenery on a snowshoeing expedition or zooming through the landscape on a snowmobiling tour offers an unforgettable experience. The Sakka Kids Park, among others, promises endless fun for children with activities like sledding, snow tubing, and vibrant indoor play areas.

Cultural excursions to nearby attractions, such as the historic Matsumoto Castle and the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where the famed snow monkeys reside, offer a rich blend of adventure and culture. Ending the day, families can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Hakuba's hot springs.