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Takanawa Travel K.K.,
Kitashinagawa 5-11-1
Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan

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A skier in a black outfit descends a snow-covered slope under a clear blue sky. Several other skiers can be seen in the background, along with a vast, mountainous landscape covered in snow. The valley below is dotted with structures and trees, adding to the scenic beauty.
A skier in a black outfit descends a snow-covered slope under a clear blue sky. Several other skiers can be seen in the background, along with a vast, mountainous landscape covered in snow. The valley below is dotted with structures and trees, adding to the scenic beauty.
A skier in red descends a snowy slope under a bright sun and clear blue sky, with leafless trees lining the hill in the background.
Empty ski lift chairs hang above a snow-covered slope lined with poles, netting, and a warning sign. Leafless trees coated in snow frame the scene, evoking a quiet, wintry atmosphere.
Skiers descend a snowy slope at a ski resort, with a snow-covered town and mountain range visible in the background under a clear sky.
A smiling child in a blue vest and white hat stands in a snowy field, holding a snowball and ready to throw it. People and trees are visible in the bright, sunlit background.
Nagano

Hakuba Valley

Colloquial AreaPolitical

Hakuba Valley is a top destination for outdoor lovers and adventurers in the stunning Japanese Alps. Situated in Nagano Prefecture, this valley is renowned for its incredible winter sports opportunities. With nine ski resorts, it caters to all levels, from beginners to experts. The snow quality is exceptional, often described as light and powdery, ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

Hakuba Valley gained international fame when it hosted several events during the 1998 Winter Olympics. Today, visitors can explore these Olympic venues, adding a touch of history to their trip.

When the snow melts, Hakuba transforms into a lush landscape perfect for hiking and mountain biking. The Happo-One Nature Trail is a favorite, offering panoramic views of the Japanese Alps. Alpine flora blooms in summer, painting the trails with vibrant colors.

The valley also features crystal-clear rivers and lakes, perfect for kayaking and fishing. For a unique experience, visit the Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort, which offers stunning views and activities like zip-lining and mountain carting.

Relaxation is easy to find in Hakuba Valley. Numerous onsens, or hot springs, are scattered throughout the area. These traditional baths are perfect for soaking away the day's exertions while enjoying the natural surroundings.

Hours:

8:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Closed:

Open daily during the ski season (typically early December to early May)

Available:

Seasonal (Winter)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

1-Day  Pass:

Adult 8,500 yen

Child 4,900 yen



The area

Address
Hakubahappo Onsen, Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301, Japan

Top ways to experience Hakuba Valley

A sleek, modern high-speed train with a blue and white design travels on tracks through a green, wooded area under overhead electric wires.
5 days
JR East Pass (Nagano & Niigata) – 5-Day Unlimited Train Travel

Nearby attractions to see

A person in an orange jacket skis down a snowy slope surrounded by snow-covered trees, with distant mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.

Myoko Kogen Ski Area

A wide, snow-covered ski slope stretches into the distance, flanked by bare trees, with snow-capped mountains and a bright sun in a blue sky in the background.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

La Casta Natural Healing Garden, Omachi

La Casta Natural Healing Garden, Omachi

Large bronze incense burner with a lion statue on top emits smoke in front of a traditional Japanese temple with ornate wooden architecture and a sloped roof, under a clear blue sky.

(Zenkō-ji) Zenkoji temple

Nearby attractions to see

A person in an orange jacket skis down a snowy slope surrounded by snow-covered trees, with distant mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.

Myoko Kogen Ski Area

A wide, snow-covered ski slope stretches into the distance, flanked by bare trees, with snow-capped mountains and a bright sun in a blue sky in the background.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

La Casta Natural Healing Garden, Omachi

La Casta Natural Healing Garden, Omachi

Large bronze incense burner with a lion statue on top emits smoke in front of a traditional Japanese temple with ornate wooden architecture and a sloped roof, under a clear blue sky.

(Zenkō-ji) Zenkoji temple


More about Hakuba Valley from our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

You can reach Hakuba Valley from Tokyo by bullet train (Shinkansen) to Nagano, followed by a bus or train to Hakuba. The entire journey can take around 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, direct buses from Tokyo to Hakuba are available, which might be a more convenient option for those traveling with ski equipment.

The best time to visit Hakuba Valley for skiing is from December to March, when the area receives abundant snowfall. January and February are particularly ideal for experiencing the best powder snow conditions.

Yes, Hakuba Valley offers a wide range of ski and snowboard schools catering to all levels, including beginners. English-speaking instructors are available, making it convenient for international visitors to learn and improve their skiing or snowboarding skills.

Absolutely, there are numerous rental shops in Hakuba Valley where you can rent ski and snowboard equipment, including boots, skis, snowboards, and winter clothing. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

Hakuba Valley offers a variety of winter activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hot springs (onsen). During the summer, the area is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the beautiful alpine scenery.
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Trip templates featuring Hakuba Valley

Skis and Powder Snow: Nagano & Hokkaido

Skis and Powder Snow: Nagano & Hokkaido

S

Stefan Thorgeirsson

Trip templates featuring Hakuba Valley

Skis and Powder Snow: Nagano & Hokkaido

Skis and Powder Snow: Nagano & Hokkaido

S

Stefan Thorgeirsson