Hidden Gems of Hakuba: Explore Beyond the Ski Slopes in Winter
Mountainwatch Travel takes great pride in offering ski and snowboarding holidays in Hakuba, Japan. A winter destination known worldwide for its top-tier ski slopes. We have been operating in the valley for 17 years, and take pride in delivering the most unforgettable ski and snowboard holidays. While the skiing facilities in Hakuba are extraordinary, the region’s appeal extends beyond its snow-pounded mountains. It’s the breadth of cultural experiences, stunning natural sceneries, unique attractions, and events that truly enrich the winter travel experience in Hakuba. Whether you’re planning a respite from skiing or simply exploring the diverse winter offerings, Hakuba will surprise and inspire you. Let’s explore Hakuba and delve into the winter highlights for the upcoming 2023/2024 ski season.
Hakuba Backcountry Tours
The backcountry tours in Hakuba cater to those who seek adventure beyond the conventional. Guided by professionals, these tours offer an opportunity to explore the untouched beauty of Hakuba’s winter wilderness and experience skiing or snowboarding in a new, less trodden environment. When booking your ski holiday our experienced consultants have a range of tour options with the most reputable operators in the valley.
Hot Springs (Onsen)
Hakuba offers a variety of onsens, each providing a unique environment for relaxation after an exhilarating day on the slopes. Firstly, Hakuba Happo Onsen, this beautiful onsen is renowned for its mineral-rich waters, and promises a therapeutic soak amidst serene mountain views. Explore Hakuba Highland Onsen, situated at an elevation, features an outdoor bath with panoramic vistas of the Northern Alps and high-quality hot water that springs from Himekawa, the source of Hakuba. Lastly, the charming Kurashita no Yu, with its wooden architecture, is another favourite and adds a rustic charm to the onsen experience. Embrace this quintessential Japanese tradition and choose the onsen that best suits your preferences for relaxation amidst stunning snowy landscapes.
Japanese Cooking Class
Wanting to add a flavourful twist to your holiday? Consider enrolling in a Japanese cooking class. Here, you’ll gain insights into the preparation of authentic Japanese dishes, fostering a deeper connection with local traditions. If this is something you’d like to try your hand at, our Mountainwatch Travel consultants can provide you with more information and assist you with any bookings you may like to make.
Snow Machine 2024
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable winter experience with Snow Machine 2024, a unique destination festival nestled in the breathtaking heart of the Japanese Alps in Hakuba. Mountainwatch Travel invites you to a thrilling blend of world-class skiing, spectacular alpine vistas, and vibrant music events over five action-packed days and nights.
Returning to Hakuba after a sold out event in Queenstown 2023, Snow Machine 2024 brings together a stellar lineup of regional and international music acts to set the rhythm of your snowy escapade. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie shredding the gnar or a music enthusiast seeking an exhilarating après ski experience, this is your chance to transform your winter getaway into a thrilling adventure. So make sure to mark your calendar for Snow Machine 2024 who have just released the dates: February 26 – March 2nd 2024. This is a must-attend event that promises a blend of cultural immersion, winter sports, and pulsating rhythms in the picturesque landscape of Hakuba.
Explore the Jigokudani Monkey Park
A visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park is an enchanting winter experience. Located just a short trip from Hakuba, the park is home to Japan’s famous snow monkeys and their antics in the hot springs create a charming spectacle. This is an option that can be easily added on to your Hakuba holiday.
Snowshoeing in Tsugaike Natural Park
For those seeking a quieter winter activity, snowshoeing in Tsugaike Natural Park might be the perfect fit. This allows visitors to navigate snow-laden trails through forests and wetlands, embracing Hakuba’s winter beauty at a leisurely pace.
Explore Hakuba Art Museum
The Hakuba Art Museum offers an engaging indoor experience. While exploring the different rooms you’ll find an extensive collection of traditional Japanese and contemporary art pieces, many of which draw inspiration from Hakuba’s picturesque surroundings.
Sake Tasting and Brewery Tours
Finally, complete your Hakuba winter experience and partake in sake tasting and a brewery tour. While visiting the local Mimasaka Sake Brewery, you’ll have the chance to learn about and sample traditional sake brewing techniques.
Mountainwatch Travel firmly believes that Hakuba’s charm lies in its fusion of exciting outdoor activities and enriching cultural experiences. From backcountry tours to sake tastings, Hakuba’s winter offerings add depth to your ski holiday. While planning for the 2023/2024 ski season, remember that Hakuba holds a plethora of winter experiences, each ready to turn your holiday into an unforgettable journey.
