Hakuba, Japan
Discover Hakuba, Japan: A Winter Paradise and Year-Round Adventure
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Hakuba is a premier destination for snow lovers and adventure seekers alike. Best known for its world-class snow season, Hakuba boasts an average snowfall of over 11 meters each winter, with the season typically running from late November to early May. The area is home to 10 ski resorts, including Happo-One, which hosted events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Powder hounds and families alike will find slopes suited to every skill level, along with terrain parks and off-piste runs.
While Hakuba is a winter wonderland, the fun doesn’t end when the snow melts. In the green season (spring to autumn), visitors enjoy hiking, mountain biking, canyoning, and stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Aoki. The mountains transform into lush landscapes ideal for exploration, and outdoor festivals and cultural events offer a vibrant alternative to the quieter pace of the colder months. This makes Hakuba a truly year-round destination for nature lovers.
The culture of Hakuba blends traditional Japanese hospitality with a welcoming international vibe. Many locals speak English, and the area has become a hub for Australians and other foreigners who work or visit regularly. You can explore onsen (hot springs) after a day on the slopes, experience a tea ceremony, or visit historic sites like the nearby Matsumoto Castle. The fusion of old and new in this alpine village creates a unique, immersive experience.
Food lovers won’t be disappointed in Hakuba. There are plenty of local izakayas (Japanese pubs), ramen shops, and soba noodle restaurants to satisfy any craving. Try Hida beef, a regional delicacy, or fresh sushi and sashimi. The town also caters to international visitors with pizzerias, cafes, and bakeries offering comfort food from home. Whether you're warming up with a steaming bowl of miso soup or sipping sake at a local bar, Hakuba's culinary scene adds flavor to the adventure.
Hot Tip- check out the food trucks in the centre of town, you won’t be disappointed!
Getting to Hakuba from Australia is relatively easy. Fly into Tokyo (Narita or Haneda), then take the bullet train (Shinkansen) to Nagano Station, followed by a one-hour bus or shuttle to Hakuba. Alternatively, you can fly into Osaka or Nagoya and connect via rail. For convenience, many tour operators in Australia offer ski packages, including transport, accommodation, and gear hire. Whether you're chasing powder, cherry blossoms, or alpine hikes, Hakuba is a destination worth exploring.
