Just a three-hour drive north-west of Tokyo, in the Northern Alps of the Nagano Prefecture, sits the Japanese ski village of Hakuba. Popular for its white powder, Hakuba is a premier winter sports destination and provides a great snowy escape for families and friends alike.
Things to do in Hakuba
Hakuba offers an array of winter sports, from snowmobiling to snow hiking, but the real pull to this area is the skiing on offer, as this little village boasts 11 ski resorts and is home to some of Japan’s best powder. In 1998 the village played host to the Nagano Olympics and as such the slope difficulties range from beginner to advanced, perfect for all ages.
Feeling adventurous? Try night skiing or take to the skies for a heli-ski session, an activity that runs through March and April and takes off from the Tsugaike Kogen ski resort. The heli-skiing is suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike, although it’s recommended that beginners take along a guide for an extra level of comfort.
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, enjoy a dip in the hot springs before retiring to the Happo area for a culturally rich food experience. If you’re looking to sample some of the nightlife, you’ll find that many of the resorts run après ski events where you can enjoy cocktails late into the evening.
Couples with the vast expanses of white powder, the village is also a photographer’s paradise with its impressive alpine scenery and mountainous landscapes that peak through the skyline.
Getting around Hakuba
There are no major airports close to Hakuba, so most travellers arrive by train from Hakuba Station. Once there, taxis and shuttle buses are the most common way to get around, particularly during heavy snow. If the weather is good, you can also spend your time on foot meandering the snow-lined streets.