Hakuba

Nestled in the heart of the spectacular Northern Japanese Alps, Hakuba is one of Japan's most famous ski and snowboard destinations. Home to 10 world-class resorts, breathtaking mountain scenery, and some of the best powder snow in the world, Hakuba offers an unforgettable winter experience for every type of rider.

Whether you're visiting for your very first ski holiday or you're chasing waist-deep powder and challenging terrain, Hakuba has something for everyone.

World-Class Skiing & Snowboarding

Hakuba first gained international recognition when it hosted events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Today, the valley is home to more than 200 runs spread across 10 unique resorts, offering everything from gentle beginner slopes to exciting terrain parks, perfectly groomed cruisers, tree skiing and expert alpine terrain. The resorts are connected by a convenient shuttle network, making it easy to explore a different mountain each day.

With an average winter bringing metres of light, dry powder snow, Hakuba has become a favourite destination for skiers and snowboarders from Australia, New Zealand and around the world.

Resorts for Every Ability

Each resort in Hakuba has its own personality.

• Happo-One – The valley's most iconic resort, famous for its Olympic history, long runs and varied terrain.
• Hakuba Goryu & Hakuba 47 – Connected resorts offering excellent skiing and snowboarding for beginners through to experts, plus terrain parks.
• Iwatake – Stunning panoramic views, relaxed atmosphere and fantastic groomed runs.
• Tsugaike – Wide beginner slopes, family-friendly facilities and excellent powder areas.
• Cortina & Norikura – Legendary among powder enthusiasts for their incredible snowfall and tree skiing.

No matter where you stay, there's always another mountain just a short shuttle ride away.

More Than Just the Snow

Hakuba isn't just about skiing and snowboarding. The village offers a fantastic mix of traditional Japanese culture and modern alpine hospitality.

After a day on the mountain you can:

• Relax in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring)
• Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine or international restaurants
• Explore cafés, bars and nightlife
• Visit local shops and markets
• Take in spectacular mountain scenery wherever you go

The welcoming atmosphere makes Hakuba just as enjoyable off the slopes as it is on them.

Getting to Hakuba from Tokyo

Travelling to Hakuba is surprisingly easy.

The most popular option is to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station, followed by an express bus or shuttle to Hakuba. The entire journey takes as little as 2 hours and 50 minutes, making Hakuba one of Japan's most accessible alpine destinations.

You can also travel by:

• Direct highway buses from Tokyo and both Narita and Haneda airports (seasonal)
• Rental car if you'd like the flexibility to explore the surrounding region
• Private airport transfers available through many accommodation providers

Why Visitors Love Hakuba

• Incredible powder snow throughout the season
• 10 unique ski resorts to explore
• Terrain for every ability level
• Olympic heritage and spectacular alpine scenery
• Friendly village atmosphere
• Easy access from Tokyo
• Amazing Japanese food, culture and hospitality

Make the Most of Your Trip

Whether you're skiing for the first time or planning your annual snow adventure, having the right equipment makes all the difference.

Central Snowsports has been helping visitors enjoy Hakuba for decades with quality ski and snowboard rentals, expert boot fitting, convenient online booking and our complimentary Guest Shuttle. We'll have you fitted with the perfect gear so you can spend less time organising equipment and more time enjoying everything Hakuba has to offer.