Firmly on the map as a world-class ski destination, the Hakuba Valley in Japan’s Nagano prefecture offers not only vast and varied ski runs but a wealth of impressive luxury accommodation.
Just three hours from Tokyo, Hakuba is a powder hounds’ paradise. Stay here and you’ll have access to 10 of Japan’s top ski resorts – Cortina, Norikura, Tsugaike, Iwatake, Happo-One, Hakuba 47, Goryu, Sanosaka, Kashimayari and Jigatake. If you are looking for Hakuba’s best accommodation, these six luxurious properties should be at the top of your list.
1. ROKA
The brand-new ROKA residences are the epitome of ski-in, ski-out luxury, set in one of the Hakuba Valley’s most desirable locations. With ski-in, ski-out access to Happo One’s Sakka slopes, these sophisticated apartments range from two-bedroom residences to a five-bedroom penthouse. Commanding stunning alpine views over the Happo One slopes, ROKA is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Japanese winter landscape, while enjoying comfort and luxury.
Best for: The most convenient ski-in, ski-out access to the Happo One slopes.
Location: Happo One’s Sakka slopes are perfect for beginners and families. Those looking for quick access to the more challenging upper slopes can travel via the Sakka quad lift.
Don’t miss: The onsen style baths over-looking the Happo One slopes. The ultimate way to relax!
Koharu Resort Hotel & Suites
Just a stone’s throw from the Sakka lifts at Happo One ski resort, Koharu Resort ticks all the boxes. These stylish, self-catering apartments and studios provide everything you need all in one place.
With a highly sought-after location, a dedicated reception team, a Central Snowsports rental store and the incredible Hybrid restaurant on site, these stunning studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments truly have it all. There is even a shuttle stop on its doorstep, giving access to the Hakuba Valley’s numerous resorts.
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Best for: Modern, self-contained mountain living with a concierge team to help with everything you could possibly need.
Location: Simply walk across the street and you are on the Happo One slopes.
Don’t miss: HYBRID Restaurant is located on the ground floor at Koharu. Opened in the 2023 winter season, this eatery has earned itself an outstanding reputation for innovative and exceptional food. The best part? It’s open for both breakfast and dinner – a must for anyone visiting Hakuba.
Mountain Side
Overlooking Happo One resort’s Kokusai lift and base area, Mountain Side is an exclusive ski-in, ski-out residence. Comprised of six three-bedroom apartments, these luxury apartments boasts immediate access to both the ski lifts and Evergreen International ski school.
Expect five-star service from the concierge team, who can cater to all your needs from guest shuttles to restaurant reservations. Luxury finishes like hardwood floors, woolen rugs and a sleek gas fireplace add to Mountain Side’s pristine alpine ambience.
Best for: Elegant, modern and well thought out design, combined with top level service.
Location: Ski-in ski-out access to Happo One and Evergreen International ski school. Especially perfect for families.
Don’t miss: Dine at LUCE restaurant. This boutique and cosy restaurant is located on the ground floor at Mountain Side.
Happo Slopeside Apartments
Brand new for the 2023 winter season, these two-, three- and four-bedroom luxury apartments are perfect for large groups looking for the ultimate location. Featuring modern open-plan living, panoramic windows with dreamy mountain views and a dedicated concierge team, Happo Slopeside Apartments are located right in the heart of Happo village.
Providing both ski-in, ski-out access to the Happo One ski slopes and a prime central position, these stunning new apartments are one of Hakuba’s hottest new luxury properties.
Best for: If you want to combine slopeside luxury with village life, these beautiful apartments are just the ticket.
Location: Set in the heart of the traditional Happo village area, right by the Happo One gondola, you can ski in and out with ease.
Don’t miss: The incredible service. Sit back, relax and let the dedicated on-site concierge team take care of all your holiday requests and needs.
Hakuba Tokyu Hotel
Hakuba Tokyu Hotel is famed for its impeccable Japanese service and spacious rooms with views of the majestic Japanese Alps. The hotel delivers both convenience and comfort. Easily one of Hakuba’s best hotels, Tokyu provides a winning combination of Western comforts, elegant surroundings and flawless service.
You won’t be disappointed with the hotel’s excellent in-house French and Japanese restaurants, aromatherapy spa facilities, indoor and outdoor onsen hot springs, relaxing lounge bar complete with a log fire and resort shuttles from the front door. Sit back, relax and soak up the après-ski ambience.
Best for: Experiencing Japan’s omotenashi service.
Location: The Happo One ski lifts are just a few minutes’ walk away and there’s a shuttle stop at the hotel front door, providing easy access to all of the Hakuba Valley’s ski areas.
Don’t miss: We highly recommend booking a relaxing aromatherapy massage to sooth those aching muscles after days on the slopes.
Hakuba Mominoki Hotel
A true Hakuba classic, the Mominoki Hotel is a well-positioned favourite amongst both Japanese and international guests. This full-service hotel has been operated by the same local family for decades and is a stalwart of the Hakuba accommodation scene.
This hotel’s convenient and prime location is key to its popularity. Rhythm Rentals’ impressive Hakuba store is located within the hotel grounds, while both the Kokusai lift at Happo One and Evergreen International ski school base are literally just a few minutes walk away.
Best for: Mominoki features one of the best traditional Japanese onsen hot spring facilities in Hakuba.
Location: There are shuttles from the door and the Happo One ski lifts are just a few minutes walk away.
Don’t miss: The fireside lounge is a great place to relax with a glass of wine after a big day on the slopes.
If you would like to know more about these properties or further explore luxury accommodation in Hakuba Valley, visit Japan Ski Experience’s website. Or get in touch with Sarah Mulholland, Hakuba Area Manager at Japan Ski Experience at sarah@japanskiexperience.com.
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