Finding Perfect Powder in Japan's Hakuba Valley

Perfect powder. Luxury accommodations. Lively restaurants. An experience designed with a jet-set, snow-fiend in mind. We could be talking about Aspen, Vail, Megève, Cortina d’Ampezzo or Whistler; but we’re talking about Hakuba Valley in – you might have guessed it – Japan.

From December to May each year, skiers-who-know flock to the mountainous village in the Nagano Prefecture that hosted part of the 1998 Winter Olympics. Since it’s on the same island as Tokyo, it’s a simple drive or ride from the international airport to Hakuba Valley, where the snowpack measures between 36-42 feet each year. Japan’s railways and bus systems are efficient and spotless, but private cars and transportation companies are also available for a more elevated arrival and departure to and from the slopes. The best snow conditions fall from January to February, after the wilder and busier holiday season and just before spring sleepily arrives in the Valley.

The massive scale of the Hakuba Valley – 10 sprawling snow resorts across two villages and a city with choices galore for apres-ski, fine dining and accommodations – means there’s something for everyone’s individual taste. Shuttles run frequently between snow resorts and the picturesque, charming villages. Nighttime transportation operates into the evening hours for those looking for a more lively experience after dark in the Happo area or Echoland.

The resorts in Hakuba Valley stretching south to north are: Jigatake Snow Resort, Kashimayari Ski Resort Family Park, White Resort HAKUBA SANOSAKA, ABLE Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park, Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort, Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field, Tsugaike Mountain Resort, Hakuba Norikura Onsen Snow Resort and, finally, Hakuba Cortina Snow Resort.

Each has its own reputation or something it’s known for — Happo-One is famed for its steep terrain and Olympic history, while Tsugaike caters to skiers of all levels, with wide, gentle runs. Hakuba Cortina is renowned for its off-piste skiing and incredibly high snowfall.

Lodging in Hakuba Valley

A myriad of lodging – from efficient to luxurious – abounds in the Hakuba Valley and we certainly lean toward comfort and class when traveling.

One hotel is a stand-out among all the others for its oversize suites, on-site amenities and world-class dining. Hotel La Vigne, with views of the northern Alps, has a three-bedroom, 2.5 bath suite we just can’t get over. Finished in luxurious minimalism and Japanese bathroom particularities that put Western bathroom concepts to shame, Hotel La Vigne delivers rest and repose in every sense of the words. The La Vigne Suite is nearly 150 square meters or over 1,550 square feet, perfect for a family or group of friends. You won’t want to get out of the bathtub with its breathtaking views of the snowy mountain peaks.

Hotel La Vigne

3020-1116 Hokujo, Hakuba Village

Exclusive Dining Experiences

The hardest-to-get table in the Hakuba Valley is the 10-seat bar at Sushi Sakai, where renowned Ginza sushi master, Chef Sakai, wows his guests in an intimate, front-row-view setting of an artist at work. Select from two exquisite omakase menus, each thoughtfully curated to showcase the freshest ingredients of the season.

Sushi Sakai

Inside the Happo by HHG

The Sky Lounge, located on the fourth floor of the Ski Jump Tower, offers a unique tasting experience in the heart of the Hakuba Valley. Imbibe on premium sake, craft cocktails and local six-dish courses while admiring stunning nighttime views of the illuminated village below. With elegant interiors and an intimate atmosphere, the Sky Lounge provides the perfect setting to relax, unwind and savor the flavors of the Hakuba Valley in style.

Sky Lounge @Hakuba Jump

3609 Hokujo, Hakuba Village

Legendary powder, lively villages and elevated dining experiences define the magic of a winter getaway to the Hakuba Valley, whether for a weekend or the entirety of the snow season. Make Hakuba Valley part of your winter tradition.

More Info

To learn more about Hakuba Valley, visit hakubavalley.com/en/.