Four Reasons Hakuba Has Some of the Best Skiing (and Snowboarding) In Japan
With over 500 ski resorts in Japan it can be overwhelming when trying to select the location of your next Japan ski holiday. Which ski area in Japan has the best terrain? the best powder? the best ski resort? While Hakuba may not win the award for any individual question (but it might!), it certainly wins the prize for the number one question – “Which ski area in Japan is the best all around?”, because let’s face it, if you’re coming to Japan on an epic snow mission, you want to go to a place that ticks all the boxes.
To help you make the right decision about where to shred this winter, here are four reasons Hakuba has some of the best skiing (and snowboarding) in Japan.
Hakuba's Towering Peaks
Hakuba is situated in the heart of the Japanese alps and is surrounded by mountains reaching approx. 3000m high. As a result, Hakuba is home to of some of Japan’s highest ski areas. High altitude ski areas are cold, which in turn keeps the snow in top powdery condition. We like powder, therefore, we like high mountains. Oh, and did we mention the views? You’ll have to come and see for yourself.
Steep and Deep
Terrain is a commonly forgotten factor when deciding on where to ski in Japan – yet it can make or break your time in the snow. Many of Japan’s ski areas get the snow but don’t have the pitch to match.. so how does Hakuba stack up? The annual snowfall of Hakuba ranges from 10m to 11m (yip, a truck tonne of white fluffy stuff!), and the slopes are some of the steepest you will find in Japan with an average max pitch of 35°. This combo is a crucial recipe for serious mountain fun. There’s no point in having the deep if there’s no steep to get you sliding.
Ultimate Versatility
There are ten resorts in the Hakuba Valley. TEN. Whether you want to smash pow through the trees, hit the bunny slopes or lap the terrain park, Hakuba has a selection of ski resorts to tickle your fancy. All accessible in less than 35 minutes driving (some are walking distance to Hakuba Matata), you can change it up every day if you like. Get the thrill of exploring many different places without the hassle of leaving the valley.
Beginner to Backcountry
Whatever your level of skiing or snowboarding, Hakuba has something for you. Beginners have a wide range of easy slopes to choose from and plenty of opportunities for lessons with English speaking instructors. Intermediate and advanced shredders have plenty of choice, be it steeper groomers or playful tree runs. Most resorts in Hakuba don’t even seem too concerned if you duck the ropes either, which can be a bit of a fun killer at other Japanese resorts. For the adventurous, Hakuba provides access to a vast array of epic backcountry terrain. Those willing to earn their turns will be rewarded in what can only be referred to as a-face-load-of-fun-filled-Japow. Sounds pretty good huh?!
If that hasn’t got your mouth watering for some steep, deep, delightful Japanese powder then I don’t know what will! Let us know in the comments what your favourite resort is within the Hakuba Valley and why. We’d love to know!
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