Carving or Shredding the Japanese Alps: Hakuba Ski Resorts

The 10 mountains of the Hakuba Ski Resort area

Happo-One

Are you looking to ski and snowboard in the shadow of the 1998 Winter Olympics? Happo-One offers a wide variety of runs for all expertise levels. Whether you are just a beginner or have skied or snowboarded all your life, amateurs can appreciate beginner-friendly trails and experienced riders can challenge themselves on more extreme runs and the backcountry gates (when officially opened).

Hakuba 47 & Goryu (You can ski/board both via a gondola connection)

Goryu & Hakuba 47 offer a wide range of terrain catering to skiers and snowboarders of various skill levels. From well-groomed trails to challenging terrain parks and runs that will have you going between the trees. The resort allows beginners and advanced riders to hone their skills and enjoy the slopes.

Iwatake

Iwatake offers a mix of terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, with easier runs for beginners and challenging runs for advanced riders. The resort's wide-open slopes and well-groomed trails provide ample space for progression and exploration. You'll be a pro in no time!

Tsugaike Kogen

If the sight of multiple green circles gives you a sense of security when skiing or snowboarding, Tsugaike Kogen is the place for you. It features expansive green-level slopes on the lower section plus a green-level trail stretching from the peak to the base. For more experienced riders, there are lift-accessed tree runs, the TG Park and opportunities to explore the Tsugaike backcountry.

Norikura

Located north of Hakuba Village, Norikura Ski Resort is linked to Cortina and can be accessed using the same lift ticket. Despite being overshadowed by Cortina, Norikura provides a tranquil retreat for visitors in search of quieter trails and unspoiled mountain views.

Cortina

Cortina is renowned among Japan's snow enthusiasts as the powder hub of Hakuba. The true meaning of the expression, "Japow". It receives significantly more snowfall than other resorts in the Hakuba ski resort area and offers some solid tree skiing/backcountry experiences.

Sanosaka

Sanosaka Resort boasts breathtaking views of Lake Aoki. It caters to beginner and intermediate skiers and riders. With fewer crowds than other Hakuba Resort Area mountains, it's an ideal spot to hone your skills. It's dog-friendly, hit the slopes with your furry companion by your side!

Kashimayari

Kashimayari Resort, positioned as the second southernmost option on the Hakuba Valley Lift Ticket, offers a fantastic escape from the crowds often found at larger resorts like Happo One. With its authentic Japanese ambiance, the resort predominantly serves the local Japanese ski community.

Jiigatake

Situated at the tranquil southern edge of The Hakuba Valley, Jiigatake offers a welcoming environment for beginners looking to start skiing or snowboarding. With seven wide and gentle runs, the resort provides an ideal setting for adults new to the sport and young children to begin their snowy adventures.

Learn more about all the benefits of the Hakuba Ski Resort Epic pass partnership here.

Day trips

Snow Monkey Onsen - During the winter, wild monkeys enjoy bathing in a natural hot spring.

Restaurant Pilar: European restaurant halfway up the mountain. You can catch the lift up even if you aren't skiing or snowboarding that day.

Soba Sakabo Zen: Handmade Soba noodles and Tempura with a focus on fresh ingredients and they curate a list of Sakes from all over Japan.

Ramen Tottsuan: Highly focused on local ingredients, with soups simmering up to 12hrs before being served. If you believe in "farm to table," this is the spot for you.

The Rabbit Hole: If in need of a good burger, beers and a pool table

Yamanami: Teppanyaki joint focused on Wagyu beef and locally sourced ingredients

Kihachi: Offers an authentic Japanese dining experience and holds the title of being one of the oldest establishments in Hakuba, serving guests for over 35 years.

Gravity Worx: An Italian restaurant focused on serving up great-tasting pizza.

No. 898: You'll need to be a who's who of the Hakuba Resort Area to get into this up-and-coming Whiskey and Champagne bar. Lucky patrons will have an awesome view of the Naikyama Slope from the base of Happo - One.