Located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Japan’s Hakuba Valley
is a stunning destination for those seeking a mixture of adventure and relaxation amidst
a picturesque landscape of towering mountains, lush forests and shimmering lakes.
Famous for its deep powder snow, stunning scenery and culinary treats, Hakuba in Japan makes for an unforgettable winter experience, and even if snow sports are not your thing, the landscape alone is worth the trip.
It’s the ideal location that offers visitors the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Japan.
The mountains in Hakuba Valley are breathtakingly dramatic, with jagged peaks rising high into the sky, capped with snow and flanked by forests of pine and fir trees during the northern winter season.
Hakuba sits at the base of the Hida Mountains, in the northern end of the Japanese Alps and is home to some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding resorts, including Hakuba 47, Tsugaike and Iwatake, which offer a variety of runs for all skill levels.
Hakuba 47 is a popular resort among winter sports enthusiasts, particularly families with children, offering a range of terrain parks and half-pipes, as well as challenging courses for advanced skiers and snowboarders, but also provides beginners a perfect long and gentle run.
At the northern end of Hakuba Valley, Tsugaike is one of the larger resorts, offering visitors a range of slopes, including wide beginner runs and steeper advanced trails. The resort also boasts incredibly stunning views of the Northern Alps and Hakuba Valley.
Iwatake Ski Resort is known for its breathtaking views of the Hakuba Valley, with its highest peak, Mt. Hakuba-Norikura, visible in the distance. The resort features a wide range of terrain, including groomed runs for beginners and some challenging mogul courses for experts. One of the highlights is Iwatake’s panoramic view of the Japan Alps off the Hakuba Mountain Harbour. Accessible by a gondola ride, visitors can also enjoy a hot coffee with a delicious, freshly baked pastry at City Café, while taking in the vista.
Accommodation in Hakuba caters for multiple budgets, but one of the most vibrant areas in the valley is Echoland, situated near Hakuba 47 and Happo-One. From low budget to high-end luxury studios and apartments, one can find many options, however, one idyllic retreat and well-known lodge amongst snowboarders and skiers, is the 36 Degrees North lodge.
Featuring iconic European chalet-style architecture, this beautiful, Australian-owned and operated lodge is known for its warm hospitality, comfortable accommodation and exceptional service. From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with welcoming hosts, setting the tone for a memorable stay.
36 Degrees North offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off services upon arrival to Hakuba from train or bus stations. The accommodation rates are inclusive of a daily breakfast and the inhouse bar, which features a traditionally Japanese crafted bar top from a 400 year old Cherry Blossom. An impressive open fire place set amidst plush lounges makes it the ideal spot to curl up with a glass of red after a day on the slopes.
When it comes to gastronomy, Hakuba caters for every palette, from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavours too. When on the slopes, most resorts have large canteen style eateries offering a selection of hot foods, snacks and drinks. Echoland, equally offers a range of traditional tastes and a mix of international cuisines, with many restaurants and bars lining the quaint village streets.
But one little gem not to be missed in Echoland is Hakuba Pizza. Owned and managed by an Australian ex-Rockpool (Sydney) chef, the incredibly delicious pizzas are woodfired, made from freshly made dough with a choice of unique gourmet toppings to suit both vegetarians and non.
Hakuba in Japan truly is the epitome of a winter wonderland offering world class skiing and snowboarding resorts. With everything from deep powder snow, stunning scenery and culinary treats, it is complete with options on every scale including accommodation.
