Hakuba Valley
Light Snow Shower
34°F
H 56° | L16°
Numerous Resorts and Blower Pow
Located in Japan’s stunning Northern Alps, Hakuba Valley is one of the country’s most celebrated ski destinations, renowned for its extensive terrain and abundant snowfall. This region comprises 10 unique resorts, each offering a variety of terrain that caters to all abilities. Each resort is smaller than your traditional North American ski resort, but this system really spreads out the crowds and experience levels of skiers, crafting an experience that you can’t really find anywhere else in the world. Hakuba is also known for reliable powder, and its great backcountry access makes it the perfect ski destination with minimal crowds and plenty to explore.
The town of Hakuba combines traditional Japanese charm with modern amenities, creating a welcoming atmosphere. After a day on the slopes, you can relax in a soothing onsen, which are natural hot springs known for their healing properties, and then settle in for the night at one of the small inns that are sprinkled throughout the valley. The food in this valley is also incredible, with typical Japanese fare crafted with high-quality ingredients.
High Summit Elevation
6,007 ft
Total Lifts
90
Total Runs
129
Lowest Base Elevation
2,493 ft
TERRAIN BREAKDOWN
30%
Beginner
40%
Intermediate
30%
Expert
3
Total Terrain Parks
Biggest Vertical Drop
3,513 ft
Average Snowfall
470"
Total Skiable Acres
2300
Jigatake Snow Resort
Kashiayari Snow Resort Family Park
White Resort - Hakuba Sanosaka
Able Hakuba Goryu
Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park
Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort
Hakuba Iwatke Snow Field
Tsugaike Mountain Resort
Hakuba Norikura Onsen Snow Resort
Hakuba Cortina Snow Resort
In Search of The Kamoshika
MY FIRST TURN off the ridge wasn’t very steep—a gentle, 25-degree pitch. Fat flakes were falling from above and the snow was stacking up at two inches per hour as I dropped in. I gained momentum as the gradient steepened, and the seemingly bottomless snow billowed up around my torso. I focused on surfing across the top; I didn’t want to dive too deep and risk pairing an extra-long face shot with an accidental encounter with one of the perfectly spaced trees I was skiing among. I made a dozen dreamy powder smears before pulling off behind a tree to wait for my partner.
It was our first day of the trip, and we both agreed on a conservative approach while we gained our bearings in the new terrain. As I radioed up to him…
