Hakuba Ski Resort is a popular destination not only for Japanese skiers but also for visitors from around the world.
Known internationally since it was one of the venues for the 1998 Winter Olympics, Hakuba is a must-visit for ski and snowboard enthusiasts.
In this article, we’ll introduce some of the best spots in Hakuba Ski Resort, recommend accommodations, share affordable rental options, and provide information on how to get there.
For those interested in learning more about other ski resorts, click here!
Where is Hakuba Ski Resort?
This Resort is located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, and is part of the Japanese Alps.
Due to its mountainous location, the area receives heavy snowfall each year, making Hakuba famous for its light, fluffy powder snow.
This area has many ski resorts, like Happo-One, Goryu, and Tsugaike Kogen. These resorts are large, offering slopes for all levels, from beginners to experts.
There’s so much to do that one day isn’t enough, making it a great place to stay for several days.
What is the difference between other ski resorts?
Vast Area and Diverse Courses
As mentioned earlier, the Hakuba area is home to multiple ski resorts, including Happo-One, Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba 47, and Tsugaike Kogen. Because of this, there are buses and lifts that allow easy access between these resorts. If you’re coming to Japan specifically for skiing, Hakuba is an excellent option.
Excellent Snow Quality
Hakuba is located at a high altitude, and it benefits from cold air coming from the Sea of Japan, which creates an environment where fluffy and abundant snow tends to fall. Of course, it’s essential to check the conditions before you arrive, but generally, the snow quality is good.
International Popularity
Due to the Winter Olympics being held here, Hakuba has a very high level of international popularity. Hotels and facilities where English is spoken are well established. While access may be a bit challenging, considering the overall costs, Hakuba can be a better choice than Niseko.
Lift Tickets – Hakuba
In Hakuba, you can buy a lift pass that allows access to 10 different ski resorts. The prices are as follows. Additionally, there are lift passes available for individual resorts, which are a good option for those staying for a shorter time. (However, please note that the lift passes for individual resorts may have limited gondola access.)
How to Access Hakuba from Tokyo
There are two main ways to get to Hakuba from Tokyo: by bus or by train. As mentioned earlier in this article, the most budget-friendly option is traveling by bus. Buses depart from major terminals like Shinjuku and Tokyo Station. Be sure to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance.
By Train:
take the Hokuriku Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagano Station. The ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.(How to book Shinkansen)
Once you arrive at Nagano Station, transfer to a local bus bound for Hakuba. The bus ride takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
By Bus:
Direct highway buses run from Tokyo to Hakuba. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours.
This trip plan you are going to use Limousine Bus and Alpico Kotsu Nagano.
Here is the website that you can book(external link).
Recommended Hotel
Simply search for “Hakuba Ski Resort,” and you’ll find a list of hotels and restaurants in English. You can book everything directly on the site, and you’ll even earn points for your bookings. Be sure to give it a try!
When looking for a hotel, there are several important factors to consider. If the hotel is part of the Hakuba Hotel Association, you can purchase lift tickets at a discounted price. It’s also essential to check if they offer English support.
Rental shops are often located within the hotels, but this isn’t always the case. Be sure to check how far the rental shop is from the hotel. Additionally, since there are designated bus stops, it’s important to verify how close the hotel is to the nearest bus stop.
Affordable Rental Options in Hakuba
Hakuba has a variety of rental shops. Prices vary depending on the shop, and the quality of the equipment can also differ.
I’ve researched and summarized reviews and prices for some of the rental shops listed on Hakuba’s official website, so you can choose the best option for your needs.
All prices are based on the standard board rental plan for two days as of October 9, 2024. This allows for easy comparison across rental shops.
Recommended Restaurants in Hakuba
I would like to introduce some of my favorite restaurants at Hakuba Resort, where I have been going almost every year. However, since it is primarily a ski resort, I generally recommend dining at places that offer meals included. That said, there are also some delicious restaurants to check out, so be sure to take a look! Of course, they are great options for lunch as well.
Koiya
This restaurant is famous for its unaju, which features eel grilled over charcoal and served on rice with a special sauce. It’s located on the way to the gondola, just after entering the Happo area from Hakuba Station, so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out!
Yamagami Shokudo Neo
This restaurant was one I frequently visited during my trips to Hakuba. It is located near the lift station of the Happo-One ski resort, where you can enjoy a variety of dishes such as curry and ramen. The gyoza is very famous, and whenever I went there, having gyoza was a must.
Neo Issei
This restaurant allows you to experience the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese house while enjoying delicious Japanese cuisine. The katsu don here is very tasty, and it attracts many tourists. Not only is the food great, but the service is also excellent, so I highly recommend visiting!
