The Hakuba Valley is a renowned ski destination, offering an array of trails with varying difficulties to suit skiers of all levels. Choose from several resort areas, including Tsugaike Ski Resort and Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort, to experience the exhilaration of skiing in Japan's breathtaking alpine landscape. The valley also offers stunning hiking trails and soothing onsens during the warmer months, making Hakuba a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The easiest way to get around in Hakuba is by car, but most major sights and attractions are accessible by a combination of trains and busses. If you decide to rent a car, it is advised to do so from the nearest airport in the vicinity. You can use our car rental widget in the FAQ menu below.
Public transportation:
To get from Tokyo to Hakuba by public transportation, travelers need to take a train. Detailed instructions are as follows:
Bullet Train:
Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Transfer to the Alpico Kotsu Bus at Nagano Station bound for Hakuba, and get off at Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Regular Train:
Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express "Azusa" or "Super Azusa" from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto Station
Transfer to the JR Oito Line and continue to Hakuba Station. The total journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Valid rail passes:
Nearest airport:
The nearest and most convenient airport is Toyama Airport.
by car: approximately 2 hours
Rental cars:
We recommend staying in Hakuba between one and two days.
The nearest and most convenient airport is Toyama Airport.
by car: approximately 2 hours
Winter sports:
Ski resorts in Japan typically run from January until April. Though this can differ from year to year, depending on the amount of snow.
Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park: click here to go the official website.
Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort: click here to go the official website.
Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort: click here to go the official website.
Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort: click here to go the official website.
Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort: click here to go the official website.
Hakuba Iwatake Ski Field: click here to go the official website.
Hakuba Sanosaka Snow Resort: click here to go the official website.
Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort: click here to go the official website.
Hakuba Valley Kashimayari Ski Resort: click here to go the official website.
Hiking:
The hiking season in this area typically runs from Spring until Autumn.
Scenic rides:
Happo Gondola: click here to go the official website.
Tsugaike Ropeway: click here to go the official website.
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