Set in Japan's north-western Nagano Prefecture, the mountain town of Hakuba is a world-famous ski resort. The venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics, Hakuba has become an increasingly popular destination for outdoorsy adventurers from within Japan and further afield, who can enjoy an array of adrenaline-pumping sports in both winter and summer. A wide range of accommodation options reflect the area’s long-lasting appeal. The best places to stay in Hakuba include family-owned lodges as well as swish resorts and romantic glamping hideaways.

Winter visitors will find the surrounding snow-clad mountains criss-crossed with trails for skiing and snowboarding. The Hakuba Valley’s largest ski resort, Happo-One, sits above the iconic Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium, with pistes for beginners as well as experienced skiers. Travel during the summer months to hike, mountain bike and fish. The Himegawa Headwaters Natural Garden is a lovely spot for a stroll, whilst the Hakuba Art Museum is great for a cultural afternoon out. Take culture-focused day trips to Matsumoto, or spend some time unwinding in Hakuba’s hot springs.

As with many popular destinations, the accommodation options here are busy both in the peak winter and summer months. So if you want to guarantee your room in one of the best places to stay in Hakuba, get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Hakuba

For Families or Groups

• Hakuba Yamano Hotel is a charming, family-run lodge with multi-bed Japanese and Western options for families or groups. A simple, well-priced choice promising hearty cuisine and warm hospitality.
• The Ridge Hotel & Apartments offers a collection of modern rooms and self-catering apartments with up to four bedrooms. Expect spacious sitting rooms and well-equipped kitchens, as well as access to an onsite restaurant. Chic and contemporary — also brilliant for longer stays.

For Glamping

• Snow Peak Field Suite is made up of eight generous tents, perfect for the ultimate glamping experience. Whilst families and groups are welcome, this can also be a wonderfully romantic escape. Slightly out of town, the property offers cosy beds, minimalist interiors and gorgeous views of starlit skies. Gather by the fire pit or feast on Italian cuisine. For outdoorsy types.

For a Luxury Resort

• Hakuba Tokyu Hotel fuses elements of a laid-back mountain lodge with the indulgences of an upscale modern hotel. Play tennis, go hiking and skiing, or kick back in the fire-lit lounge before enjoying sensational dinners. A classic resort for couples or families.
• Sierra Resort Hakuba is a swish property with contemporary rooms yielding forest views and beds topped with crisp white linens. Unwind in spoiling onsens or a refreshing outdoor pool after enjoying easy access to the slopes. Set on 25 acres of grounds, this is a luxurious choice for guests of all ages.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY LODGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Hakuba?

• Fly to Tokyo's Haneda International Airport or to Narita International Airport and travel to Hakuba by train via Shinjuku Station. The journey should take under four hours by rail.
• The Nagano region is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers are warm, with temperatures hovering between 20 and 27°C, and great for hiking and mountain biking. If you're looking to hit the slopes, travel between November and early March, when you can expect the best snow. For a quieter trip and great hotel deals, we'd recommend visiting in early autumn.

Still Not Sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Matsumoto.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hakuba