Hakuba: Where Adventure Meets Alpine Living
Surrounded by the majestic Japanese Alps, Hakuba offers world-class skiing, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant international community. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the slopes, peaceful mountain living, or a promising investment opportunity, Hakuba delivers it all. From luxury chalets and cozy cabins to thriving local culture and year-round outdoor activities, Hakuba is where nature, lifestyle, and opportunity come together.
A Year-Round Outdoor Paradise
Famous for its incredible powder snow, Hakuba attracts visitors from around the world during winter. Skiing, snowboarding, and apres-ski culture make it a prime winter destination. In warmer months, hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor festivals transform Hakuba into a nature lover’s paradise.
Winter Highlights:
☃️10 major ski resorts, including Happo-One and Cortina.
♨️Relaxing hot springs (onsen) after a day on the slopes.
🌃Vibrant nightlife, dining, and international community gatherings.
Summer Highlights:
⛱Scenic hiking trails like Happo Pond and Karamatsu Ridge.
🐮Thriving summer festivals, outdoor concerts, and farmers’ markets.
⛰Mountain biking, kayaking, and exploring Japan’s breathtaking nature.
Easy Access from Major Cities
Hakuba is easily accessible from major cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, making it an ideal location for vacation homes or weekend getaways.
From Tokyo:
Approx. 3.5 hours by bullet train + bus.
From Osaka/Nagoya:
5-6 hours by car or train.
From Narita/Haneda Airport:
Direct shuttle services available.
Savor the Flavors of Hakuba
Hakuba’s culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Japanese flavors, international cuisine, and cozy alpine dining experiences — making it a food lover’s paradise after a day on the slopes or exploring the outdoors.
Local Delicacies
Indulge in Nagano’s regional specialties, such as:
Soba Noodles: Made from locally sourced buckwheat, these hand-crafted noodles are a must-try.
Hot Pot (Nabe): Perfect for warming up after a day in the snow, featuring local vegetables and tender meats.
Oyaki: A traditional Nagano snack — grilled dumplings filled with vegetables, miso, or sweet bean paste.
International Dining
As a major international destination, Hakuba offers diverse global cuisine, including:
Gourmet Pizza and Burgers at popular alpine pubs.
Authentic Italian, French, and Asian Fusion Cuisine served in stylish mountain lodges.
Après-Ski Bars featuring craft beers, cocktails, and international wine selections.
Farm-to-Table Experience
Many restaurants in Hakuba source their ingredients locally from Nagano’s farms, ensuring fresh, high-quality produce in every dish. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a fine dining experience, Hakuba’s food scene combines global flavors with local authenticity.
A Growing Real Estate Market
Hakuba’s rising popularity among international visitors has fueled a strong demand for vacation homes, rental properties, and investment opportunities. With the increasing flow of tourists, property owners often generate high rental yields, especially during the winter season.
Why Invest in Hakuba?
High Seasonal Rental Demand
Peak winter season sees strong short-term rental demand.
Property Appreciation
Growing popularity is driving property values higher. Lifestyle and Return on Investment
Enjoy your home while it appreciates in value.
Whether you’re seeking a luxury ski chalet, cozy mountain cabin, or year-round residence, Hakuba offers diverse investment opportunities with long-term growth potential.
The Hakuba Happo-one Fire Festival
The Hakuba Happo-one Fire Festival is one of Japan’s most famous ski resorts at Happo-one. This festival celebrates the local mountain culture and prays for safety on the slopes. The highlight of the event is the torchlight skiing, where skiers carrying flaming torches descend the snowy slopes, creating a mesmerizing trail of fire against the night sky. The festival also features a grand fireworks display, traditional performances, and warm local food stalls, making it a magical experience for visitors. With its unique combination of fire and snow, this festival offers an unforgettable winter night in the heart of the Japanese Alps.
Typical Date : Early February
The Hakuba Toro Nagashi
The Hakuba Toro Nagashi is a traditional Japanese lantern-floating ceremony. This event takes place in Hakuba, where hundreds of glowing lanterns are gently released onto the river, creating a breathtakingly serene and spiritual atmosphere. The festival is a time to honor ancestors and send prayers for peace and good fortune. As the lanterns drift down the water, their warm glow reflects beautifully against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps, offering a tranquil and unforgettable experience for visitors. This peaceful and deeply cultural event provides a unique glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions.
Typical Date : Mid-August during the Obon season