Hakuba Skiing: Best Powder Skiing between Tokyo & Osaka


Hakuba Skiing is arguably known as one of the best places to ski near Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto. PLUS, it’s convenient location between these major tourist hotspots makes it the perfect ski stop on your itinerary.

Tucked into the stunning mountain ranges of Nagano, Hakuba Valley is often referred to, as one of the best ski destinations in the region and some might even argue, in all of Japan.

Located between 5-7 hours from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka by train, bus, or private shuttle, Hakuba Valley offers easy access to world-class terrain.

It offers deep powder, long scenic runs, and movie scene views, so it’s no wonder Hakuba skiing has become a bucket list destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about planning a skiing trip to Hakuba Japan — including where to stay (say HELLO to the BEST, ski-in ski-out lodges!), how to get there from Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka, lift pass options (including the game changing Epic Pass), rental gear tips, money saving tips and how to hop between ski resorts across the entire Hakuba valley.

Hakuba Valley Happo One
Hakuba Skiing: Best Powder Skiing between Tokyo & Osaka

Why we LOVE Skiing in Hakuba?

Firstly, its sheer size, Hakuba is made up of 10 resorts, 90 ski lifts and over 200 runs!

Hakuba Valley Ski lift map
Image supplied by happo-one.jp

Secondly…

“Hakuba Skiing offers the BEST Powder Skiing between Tokyo & Osaka”

We love its location—it’s easy to include in your itinerary between Tokyo and Osaka, or you can fly into either city to make it work. This gives you so much more flexibility with flight options.

For example, on our first couple of trips we did, Tokyo-Hakuba-Osaka/Kyoto and for something different on our last trip, we flew into Nagoya, skied in Hakuba, and wrapped up in Osaka!

Hakuba Valley, Happo One main Street
Hakuba’s Happo One Main Street

Where is Hakuba Valley

Hakuba is located in the Nagano Prefecture. It is approximately 270km northwest of Tokyo, 420km northwest of Osaka and 330km northwest of Kyoto.

Getting to Hakuba Valley from Tokyo

Hakuba Valley’s proximity to Tokyo definitely adds to its appeal.

Another option is to go by bus from Tokyo’s major airports or downtown Tokyo.

Image by Alpico Bus

Getting to Hakuba from Kyoto or Osaka

Estimated time and cost: 5+ hours, ¥8,000 – ¥10,500

Chair lift at Hakuba Blog - Best Skiing in Japan: Places to Ski near Tokyo
Happo One Hakuba Chair lift

Where to stay in Hakuba

Accommodation options in the Hakuba ski fields range from cozy guesthouses and traditional ryokans to luxurious ski resorts and self‑contained apartments. The best part of staying in Hakuba is the option to choose a true ski‑in/ski‑out experience.

For this reason, one of our favourite place to stay is definitely Happo One Village. It offers an excellent selection of ski‑in/ski‑out lodges, plus plenty of restaurants, bars, onsens, a fun vibe, and the perfect blend of cozy alpine charm and lively ski culture.

Whether you’re strolling through its cute snow filled streets, unwinding in an onsen, or enjoying a drink or sake at one of the many bars and restaurants after a day on the slopes, Happo One has a great energy and vibe that makes you never want to leave.

Other popular areas to stay include Echoland and Wadano, both offering easy access to ski slopes, restaurants, and nightlife aswell.


Our Favorite Hakuba Skiing Lodges & Guesthouses:

1. Asaka Lodge


2. Starry


3. Petit Hotel Shitaka


When to book

Accommodation, (especially the above popular recommendations) book well in advance. We usually book a year in advance and we advise you do the same.

Booking.com

Why Skiing in Japan is a cheaper alternative

The other allure of Skiing in Japan, and Hakuba is the prices. Compared to other countries like Australia, United States, Canada and Europe, Japan can offer an affordable alternative without sacrificing on the conditions.

Tips to Save Money on Skiing in Hakuba, Japan

  1. Book your accommodation at least 9-12 months in advance, especially in peak season. You will get the best rates and room selection in advance.
  2. If you are planning on skiing elsewhere this season, look into an Epic Pass. (more information below)
  3. Ski Passes and Accommodation are much cheaper in the shoulder season.
  4. The more consecutive days you ski the cheaper it will be for lift tickets and rental gear.
  5. You get a cheaper price by booking your ski pass in advance.
  6. If you are skiing in Hakuba for over a week, look at the price of a Season pass, and if you book in advance (early bird), it will be cheaper again.

Best things to do in Japan in Winter

Winter in Japan is truly magical with so many unique things to do, and places that come alive in the colder months. In this guide, I’ll highlight the best winter destinations, things to do and share essential tips to help you enjoy the season to the fullest.

Hakuba Ski Rental Prices

Rental Prices:
Hakuba offers a wide selection of rental shops for ski and snowboard gear, catering to all skill levels and preferences. Rental packages typically include skis or a snowboard, boots, and poles. Prices vary depending on the quality and type of equipment, but you can generally expect to pay around ¥5,000 to ¥7,000 per day for a standard complete package. Discounts are often available for multi-day rentals. (Please note that prices are subject to change and may be affected by inflation.)

Tip:
Ask your lodge in Hakuba to help arrange your rental gear—they often provide convenient pick-up and drop-off services.

Ski Gear Hire in Hakuba Valley Happo One

Hakuba Skiing Pass Prices

Ski Lift Prices:
Hakuba Valley boasts a variety of different lifts and mountains, each offering unique terrain, facilities, and experiences. Lift ticket prices vary depending on the resort / mountain, time of year, and the duration of your stay. Many resorts also offer night skiing, beginner areas, and ski lessons.

Pass holders also enjoy free access to the Hakuba Valley inter-resort shuttle system, making it easy to hop between resorts and experience everything the valley has to offer.

TicketsAdultChildRemarks
1 day ticket¥9,700¥5,600Valid only on the day of purchase
2 day ticket¥19,000¥10,900Valid for 2 days of skiing over a 3 day period
3 day ticket¥28,200¥15,900Valid for 3 days of skiing over a 5 day period
4 day ticket¥37,400¥20,900Valid for 4 days of skiing over a 7 day period
5 day ticket¥46,600¥26,100Valid for 5 days of skiing over a 9 day period
6 day ticket¥55,900¥31,300Valid for 6 days of skiing over a 10 day period
7 day ticket¥65,100¥36,500Valid for 7 days of skiing over a 11 day period
8 day ticket¥74,300¥41,600Valid for 8 days of skiing over a 13 day period
9 day ticket¥83,500¥46,300Valid for 9 days of skiing over a 14 day period
10 day ticket¥92,700¥51,400Valid for 10 days of skiing over a 15 day period
Information & Table supplied by hakuba.com (2024- 2025 season)

Epic Pass (Worldwide, Australia and Japan ski pass)

What is the Epic Pass?

The Epic Pass is a multi-resort season pass offered by Vail Resorts that provides access to a wide range of ski resorts around the world. It’s designed for skiers and snowboarders who plan to hit the slopes multiple times in a season and want flexibility and value.

Using your Epic Pass in Hakuba

Epic Pass holders can enjoy five consecutive days of skiing or snowboarding at any of its ten resorts. To redeem you just present your Epic Pass at a designated ticket window to receive a local lift ticket.

Spending christmas in the snow in Japan - Santa suits - blog Best Skiing in Japan: Places to Ski near Tokyo

You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to skiing in Japan, but with Hakuba’s unbeatable access to major cities, you can’t go wrong choosing Hakuba Skiing.

So pack your winter gear (and your Santa suit like my family did if its Christmas!), hit the slopes, and experience the magic of Hakuba Skiing for yourself!

Continue planning your Japan trip

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About me

Hey, nice to meet you, I’m Shannon Thomson and I am a Diploma Qualified Photographer and Social Media / Marketing graduate with a passion and love for Travel.

I have been lucky enough to be working in the field of Travel, and as a successful Social Media Manager, Content Creator and Blogger for the past 6 years. Throughout this time, I have been lucky enough to travel to some of the most sought out destinations around the world.

Within this Blog you will find all my best travel tips, guides and itineraries.

MY Top 5 favorite countries: Japan, China, Egypt, Tanzania, Philippines!