Hakuba Valley is a picturesque ski resort located in the Japanese Alps.
Situated within Nagano Prefecture, it is a popular destination for both local and international tourists looking to enjoy picturesque slopes and a wealth of winter activities.
One of the most important decisions to make when planning a trip is figuring out where to stay in Hakuba Valley.
In this article, we explore the different options available to vacationers.
Where to stay in Hakuba valley
Hakuba Valley consists of several interconnected resorts, each offering unique accommodation experiences. On one end, visitors have the more touristic Hakuba Happo-one Ski Resort, made famous by its appearance in the 1998 Winter Olympics. At the other end of the Valley lies the lesser-known Kashimayari Ski Resort, a hidden gem loved by skiers who prefer a more laid-back and rural feel.
There are plenty of on-mountain options to consider as well.
These provide easy access to the slopes and charming accommodations that perfectly reflect the authentic Japanese alpine lifestyle.
Here are some of the most appealing places to stay in Hakuba Valley.
Hakuba Happo One Ski Resort
Nestled between the Hakuba and Goryu ski resorts lies Happo-one Ski Resort, a prime destination for skiers and snowboarders alike. Happo-one is popular among visitors due to its world-class amenities, diverse terrain, and stunning natural beauty. The resort offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from luxury resort hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
THE HAPPO by Hakuba Hotel group
Situated in Hakuba, 7.9 km from Tsugaike Kogen Ski Area, THE HAPPO by Hakuba Hotel Group features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking and a bar. This 5-star hotel offers ski storage space and free shuttle service. The hotel has a sauna, a concierge service and free WiFi.
At the hotel, the rooms have a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels. All rooms come with a safety deposit box and some rooms are fitted with mountain views. All rooms will provide guests with a fridge.
Guests at THE HAPPO by Hakuba Hotel Group can enjoy a continental breakfast.
The accommodation offers 5-star accommodation with a hot spring bath. The area is popular for skiing, and ski equipment hire is available at this 5-star hotel.
Nagano Station is 44 km from THE HAPPO by Hakuba Hotel Group, while Zenkoji Temple is 46 km from the property. The nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport, 67 km from the hotel
Hakuba Tokyu Hotel
Hakuba Tokyu Hotel is an 8-minute drive from JR Hakuba Station and a 3-minute drive from Happo-One Bus Terminal. A free 2-way shuttle to both destinations is provided upon prior reservation. The hotel features a public hot-spring bath, aroma therapy services and free parking. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
Guest rooms offer both air conditioning and heating facilities. Each has a fridge, a personal safe and a flat-screen TV. The en suite bathroom comes with toiletries and a bathtub.
The hotel boasts 5 tennis courts on site. Other facilities include ski equipment rental, and bicycle rental. A mini-mart, Il Vento, is available on site.
Chamonix restaurant serves a selection of French cuisine. Japanese dishes can be enjoyed at Manyo restaurant, while Loge restaurant serves light meals and drinks.
Hotel Hakuba Tokyu is 10-minute walk from Happo-One Ski Resort. Free shuttle services are provided to nearby ski resorts, while late-night shuttle services are available to nearby towns.
Echoland
Echoland is a unique area that is easily accessible and offers several lodging options. The area offers a more customizable experience and a plethora of restaurants, bars, and other amenities.
Accommodations in Echoland are typically cozy and intimate, offering a more authentic Japanese alpine experience. Expect privacy, comfort, and a warm welcome wherever you go.
Alpine Chalets Hakuba
Situated in Hakuba in the Nagano region and Tsugaike Kogen Ski Area reachable within 8.9 km, Alpine Chalets Hakuba features accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a garden and free private parking.
The accommodation comes with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with bidet, shower and a hairdryer, while the kitchenette has a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. Some units have a terrace and/or a balcony.
Hiking, skiing and cycling are possible within the area, and the holiday home offers a ski pass sales point.
Nagano Station is 43 km from Alpine Chalets Hakuba, while Zenkoji Temple is 44 km from the property. The nearest airport is Matsumoto, 66 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Hakuba Onsen Ryokan Shirouma
A 5-minute walk from Nakiyama slope of Happo-one Ski Resort, Ryokan Shirouma-so offers a hot-spring bath and home-cooked meals. The Japanese-style rooms have tatami-mat floors, traditional futon bedding and free WiFi.
The air-conditioned rooms at Hakuba Onsen Ryokan Shirouma-so are simple but elegant, with shoji paper screens and tatami (woven-straw) floors. Each comes with yukata robe and private toilet. Guests can unwind in the on-site hot spring baths between 6:00 to 9:00 and 15:00 to 23:00, while individual shower booths can be used 24 hours in the annex building.
Guests can enjoy an in-room massage for a fee, or relax in the free-use massage chair. Storage for skis and snowboards is provided, and elevator tickets and trekking tickets are sold at the hotel. A refrigerator can be found in the common area.
The ryokan is 1.2 mi from JR Hakuba Train Station and 5 mi from Tsugaike Park. On-site parking is free.
The property offers homemade Japanese breakfasts using fresh local ingredients.
Wadano
The Wadano area is home to the largest collection of luxury lodges and chalets in the valley. It is the perfect choice for travelers looking to indulge in the ultimate skiing experience.
Wadano is located at the base of Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort and offers a variety of luxury accommodations.
Alpine Azumi
Located in Hakuba, Alpine Azumi Deluxe Apartments is under a minute’s walk from Sakka Ski Slope at Happo One Winter Resort. Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal is 5 minutes by car. Free WiFi is provided.
Boasting a modern interior, the spacious units include a TV with satellite channels, lounge area and underfloor heating. A fully equipped kitchen has an oven and dishwasher, as well as a coffee machine. Every unit has a private bathroom with free toiletries and slippers.
The property staff offers concierge service during the stay. Ski storage and drying space is available at the property. There are a shared washing machine and dryer for guest’s convenience.
Hakuba Jump Arena can be reached via 4-minute drive from Alpine Azumi Deluxe Apartments.
Kashimayari Ski Resort
Kashimayari Ski Resort may be lesser-known, but its unspoiled natural beauty has captured the hearts of many visitors. The accommodation options in the area are somewhat limited, but that does not mean they lack in quality. This hidden gem offers a chance to see a slow-paced side of Japan and experience authentic Japanese alpine life firsthand.
One of the top places to stay at the Kashimayari Ski Resort is the Highland Backpackers Hostel. Not only is it affordable, but it also offers stunning views of the frosty peaks outside. Another great option is the Kashimayari Sports Village, a mini-resort that offers visitors the chance to stay in a western-style hotel or traditional Japanese-style ryokan.
In the end, choosing where to stay in Hakuba Valley comes down to personal preference. If you are looking to explore a wide range of amenities and activities, staying at Happo-one Ski Resort or Echoland is the best choice. On the other hand, Wadano offers the ultimate in luxury and convenience, while Kashimayari Ski Resort offers a more laid-back and authentic experience.
The most important thing is to choose a place to stay that will allow you to fully enjoy all that Hakuba Valley has to offer, from the breath-taking mountain scenery to the unique Japanese culture and fabulous skiing and snowboarding.
It’s time to book your trip and pack your bags for an unforgettable winter holiday!
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Gian and Jack are traveling the world for over 10 years and they WANT to share their tips with other. The blog TravelFun365.com is created to inspire people to travel more discovering all the best places around the world.
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