Skiing & Boarding

Hakuba’s Options

With 10 resorts to choose from, there’s new and varied terrain to explore at Hakuba every day, and with an average 11 meters of snow each year, you’re pretty much assured of great conditions. This breathtakingly beautiful resort boasts Japan’s steepest slopes, tree lined powder filled back country (accessible with a guide) and moguls to challenge every advanced skier or boarder. But don’t worry, if you’re a beginner or looking to move to the next level, book into one of the resort’s many fantastic ski schools, which are close to the accommodation and staffed by English speaking instructors. The Hakuba valley also offers endless perfectly groomed runs to help you hone your turns, pick up your speed…or simply enjoy the spectacular panorama. Most of the resorts at Hakuba also have terrain parks for all levels of skiers and boarders.

Activities

With 10 mountains to choose from, it’s unlikely you’ll have a moment to spare during your days at Hakuba, but it’s a great idea to make the effort because despite this being a Westernised resort, you’ll find some wonderful authentic Japanese cultural experiences – from making sushi, to visiting an historic Japanese temple and observing the snow monkeys soaking themselves in the hot springs. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour amazing Japanese cuisine, or soak away the aches and pains in a natural hot spring onsen. And if you just can’t get enough of the cold stuff, experience snowmobiling and snowshoeing or explore one of the many terrain parks on offer. Looking for something to do at night? Happo Village is the place to be with its vast array of restaurants – both authentic Japanese and western style. And finally, be sure to experience the karaoke bars!

Getting There & Around

Ski Resort Transport

To get to Hakuba, fly into Narita and catch the fast train into Tokyo, then swap over to the Shinkansen bullet train for the trip to Nagano, which takes just over an hour and a half. Alternatively from Narita, the road trip to Hakuba is about four hours by private transfer, shuttle, or a daily scheduled bus.