Why March Is A Month To Remember In Hakuba
While most people travel to Japan from late December through to early March, the ski season goes right through until early May. Japan offers some great conditions later in the season, especially in March. Enjoy plenty of powder, beautiful bluebird days, better accommodation deals and less crowds.
From amazing spring snowfalls, to sunshine and Snow Machine Festival, year after year March is a month to remember in Hakuba. Keep reading to find out why you need to travel to March next season.
Snowfall
It is not unusual to expect frequent, heavy powder dumps at the start of March and these often continue through to the end of the month. For those that are fortunate to stick around or travel to Hakuba in March, you’ll be rewarded with fresh tracks and plenty of space to explore after a spring dump. After the snow gods have delivered, the next bluebird day is always pretty magical – especially when it’s 15cm plus!
Weather
As the season’s begin to shift, you can expect warmer temperatures and more bluebird days, especially towards the middle of the month. With the sunshine, comes plenty of opportunities to bask in the stunning views of the Japanese Alps. Not to mention, more backcountry tours open up. Get a guide and get out there! There may also be a little bit of rainfall in the village, although on the plus side, this more likely than not means snow up on the peaks.
Less Crowds = Accommodation Deals
From the beginning of March the crowds in Hakuba start to reside, and the ‘off-peak’ season kicks in. There are plenty of positives to this: the village has a relaxed vibe and as the lift lines start to reduce, so do the accommodation prices. Local skiers and snowboarders flock to the slopes in March for this reason. If you’re after a deal, it’s generally from mid-to-late month when the accommodation and lift ticket prices really drop.
With less crowds, some of the inter-village shuttles cease for the season, so it can be a great time to make the most of a rental vehicle. It’s also a great time to explore other areas, such as Tokyo and Kyoto and get a glimpse of the first cherry blossoms in bloom.
Snow Machine Festival
At the start of March, annual music and après-ski festival, Snow Machine, takes place in Hakuba. This coming season the village will transform into a mass celebration of music, powder and après from 26 February – 2 March. Thousands of people flock from around the world to see their favourite artists performing both en-piste by day and at the main stage arena by night. Check out Zhu DJing at Iwatake back in 2020:
Whether you want to enjoy the après party vibes of Snow Machine at the start of the month or the chill vibes of the ski resort at the end, March is a great time to visit Hakuba.
If you’re ready to experience this powder paradise for yourself, complete an enquiry form, and our team will happily create a custom package for you. Or discover our packages below.
