FATHER & SON HIKING ADVENTURE STAY COOL THIS SUMMER SAMPLE LOCAL FOOD
Welcome to Hakuba It’s summertime in Hakuba and the possibilities are endless. Immerse yourself in all of the beauty, variety and adventure of what the Hakuba Valley has to offer. he secret has long been out, Hakuba is not only a haven for snow sport lovers but also for adventure seekers who are looking for some thrill and excitement during the warm summer months. If this is you, then you are in luck, as the Hakuba Valley is full of experiences for all ages and fitness levels. The adrenaline junkies can participate in Cayoning which is basically sliding down waterfalls, jumping off high cliffs into steep crystal pools. For two wheeled lovers, the Hakuba Valley is bike friendly with off road trails, full long day road trips or just cruising through the town
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If exploring the trails is more your thing, take a hike on one of the many routes on the mountains and enjoy the spectacular vistas of forests and alpine ponds. Adventure isn’t only limited to fast paced activities, the fishermen and women among you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Nire-ike or rent a boat and fish on one of the valleys three lakes. Discover heavenly nights in the evening by enjoying the amazing fireflies that attest to the freshwater than abounds here in the valley or just look up at the night sky and ponder why we are even here. There are only a few destinations in Japan or probably in the whole of Asia that can deliver an epic playground for all seasons with top class amenities in such a picturesque setting. We hope you discover adventure here on your trip to Hakuba. See you on the trails. Steve Williams Editor
Editor Steve Williams
Advertising Mikiyo Williams
Contact Information 1606-4 Hokujo, Hakuba, Nagano 399-9301, Japan English Tel: 080-3126-0247 Japanese Tel: 080-3422-9005 Email: magazine@hakubaconnect.com www.hakubaconnect.com Published by Snow Connections
Design Michael Grove
Hakuba Connect annual summer visitor guide is free when picked up at distribution points throughout the Hakuba valley. © Snow Connections. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Individual advertisers are solely responsible for the content of advertising material which they submit to us, including ensuring that it complies with relevant legislation. We accept no responsibility for the content of advertising material, including, without limitation, any error omission or inaccuracy therein.
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Top 5 Relaxing
Top 5 ACTIVITIES
HAKUBA VALLEY
ONSEN/HOT SPRING Getting naked with a bunch of total strangers is perhaps the most quintessentially Japanese thing to do in Hakuba. Many of the onsens have great views of the mountain peaks. Relax those tired muscles and contemplate tomorrow’s adventures.
FOR RELAXATION FOR ADVENTURE FOR FAMILIES
MASSAGE
Exploring the high alpine with the summer gondolas and lifts, lesuirely days strolling around the village, enjoying the pristine lakes or rivers – with so much fun and adventure waiting for you this summer in the Hakuba valley, choosing what to do and fitting it all in can be hard. Since we live here and having fun is what Hakuba is all about, we’ve put together these top five lists filled with activities and attractions to help you choose what to do with your long sunny days and evenings in our mountain paradise.
Soothe every part of your body and ease you aching muscles with a trip to the Tokyu Hotel, which specializes in massage and reflexology. Complimentary pass in the natural hot spring will make this relaxation top priority.
HOTARU/ FIREFLIES Enjoy the amazing night tour on Lake Aokiko. Jump into a voyager canoe and paddle through the natural habitat of the glowing fire flies. If you are here in the peak summer months, guided tours are available.
TRAINS Miniature steam railways as well as the resort view train makes Hakuba a perfect destination for both train buffs and those who want to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of all the adrenaline activities.
DINING The village’s numerous restaurants have food for all tastes and budgets. Enjoy everything from great tasting local Japanese cuisine to the perfect burger. Mix this with a cold beverage and you have perfect end to a great day.
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ACTIVITIES
ACTIVITIES IN THE
Top 5 Family Fun
ACTIVITIES
CANYONING
HIKING
A not so gentle but extremely refreshing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides. Try shower climbing for the younger kids.
Beautiful meadows, towering peaks. The best way to enjoy nature’s finery is don a pair of hiking boots and take a gondola ride up into the high alpine. There are many hikes from casual strolls to multi day treks.
RAFTING
BALLOONING
The rivers flow furiously as they are fed from the melt waters running off the mountains high above the village. There are various options available from half day to full day adrenaline rushes. This activity is guaranteed not to disappoint.
Get up early and soar in a hot air balloon above Hakuba. The balloons lift to 40 meters above the ground. The balloons park is in front of Hakuba Highland Hotel. See Lion Adventure more for details.
MTBING
BANANA BOAT
The popularity of MTBing is increasing year by year in Hakuba. Numerous courses around the hills including some lift accessed single track that will get your heart pumping. Guides and maps are available.
Mount Up, Hang On, Get Wet! This is one of the most fun things to do on Lake Kizakiko. You won’t be able to stop laughing!
FOREST ADVENTURE
CYCLING
Swing through the trees on a circuit of zip lines, monkey bridges, ladders and ropes. You can travel through the forest without touching the ground safely strapped into a harness and attached to a safety line. Available at both Iwatake and Cortina ski areas.
Hit the open road or just cruise around the town. Varied terrain, sign posted courses and quality bike rental, make Hakuba a perfect location for a two wheeled family adventure.
TANDEM PARAGLIDING
CANOEING/RAFTING PICNIC
There are a number of take-off areas at the ski resorts where you can soar high above the valley floor strapped to an expereeiced pilot. Enjoy a birds eye view of the breath taking scenery below.
Enjoy the water that all the family can partake in, on the calmer rivers and lakes of the Hakuba valley. Be prepared for a fun day out and possibly getting a little wet.
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ACTIVITIES
Top 5 Adventure
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WHAT'S HA
14th September Hakuba International Trail Run One of the most beautiful trail running races in Japan. A few climbs, a few descents, beautiful woods, numerous sweeping vistas, and almost all off-road. Comfortably Hakuba is an instant favorite amongst trail runners. Don’t miss out on this classic race!
3th , 4th and 5th May Salt Road Festival The Salt Road is the ancient pathway that runs through the Hakuba Valley on its way from the Sea of Japan to the castle city of Matsumoto 120kms away. The Salt Road Festival takes place three days during Golden Week. A great cultural event.
8th JUNE Tsugaike Cycle Climb Tsugaike Hill Climb is a uniquely painful and challenging cycle race. The ideal is simple – ride up a ski hill as fast as you can. It’s just you, your bike and your fight against gravity. At the end of the climb at the top of Tsugaike Ski Area, your legs will be screaming with pain, your lungs at bursting point and you may feel light headed due to less oxygen at this altitude. Yet, whatever your time, there’s a great feeling of achievement for completing the hill. You may not enjoy it, but something brings you back for more.
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HAPPENING 30th and 31st August BMW Motorrad Are you ready for a motorcycle event where you can not only see the latest BMW Motorrad models at first hand and try them out for yourself but also have loads of fun with like-minded enthusiasts? If so, look forward to two days of superb entertainment at the BMW Motorrad. From 30th 31st August 2014, Hakuba 47 Ski Area will once again be transformed into the high-powered meeting place for all BMW Motorrad fans and friends, offering so many highlights and activities that you’ll start by wondering where on earth to start.
23th and 24th August Summer FIS Ski Jump One of the annual sporting fixtures in the Hakuba calendar is, bizarrely, ski jumping. No need for snowy slopes in August though, as the event is held on the all season Olympic ski jump. Over 15 nationalities are represented in the 2 day competition, with the event being televised live on European sports channels. It is a gathering of the best ski jumpers in the world and an amazing spectacle is guaranteed!
13th , 14th and 15th August Hakuba's Summer Festivals Every year during the Obon holidays Hakuba comes alive with three days of summer festivals. Kicking it off is the Happo Festival, followed by The Yosakoi Matsuri which takes place in front of the Hakuba train station with special dancing and music The various teams sport a wide variety of brightly attired costumes trying to outdo each other as they strut their stuff to the rhythm of the energetic music. A great evening for locals, visitors and international guests! Three days of events culminates in the Hakuba Matsuri at Green Sports Park. Enjoy more dancing and fireworks.
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s l i a r t e h t t i h “Time to for Hakuba’s tity” i v i t c a g n i w o r fastest g Williams By Mikiyo
E
very trail runner has unique reasons for starting. For many, it’s their love of nature and a sense of adventure that drives them away from the predictability of pavement running and onto the ever-changing terrain of dirt. For others, the move to trail was simply a necessity. For me it was the necessity to get fit and look good on the beach! At first, I was shocked at how much agility and balance I’d lost to age. The old saying, “Use it or lose it” was now being hurled at me, and it did not feel good to realize I had become complacent in what I asked of myself. To take my mind of the pains, I started to listen to music on the trails but I soon realized that I was missing the tranquility of the beautiful countryside. If I daydream while I’m navigating a mountain trail, I fall. It requires me to pay attention, but not to my noisy life. I have to listen to what’s happening around me, and that allows me to see the breathtaking beauty that surrounds us, whether I notice it or not, every day. Not only was the scenery a distraction from the effort required to stay upright on a rocky trail, suddenly mileage and time didn’t matter as much. Maybe my favorite aspect of trail running is that it’s never the same, trail running keeps me guessing. I have a favorite trail in Minekata courses, the view from the top changes drastically depending on the season. Hakuba is a relatively small village, and word soon got round that I was training for the annual trail running event that takes place every year in September. To be honest, I was perfectly content running for pleasure and I did not give much thought to running in a formal race. The idea of running through the woods with a group of people did not really excite me. Then I started reading jogging magazines and talking to my fellow running friends at work. I quickly learned that there is a lot of strategy that takes place during long distance trail running events.
or even come close to a top finisher mark. I was perfectly content with enjoying the trail, experiencing something new and hopefully placing better than 50% of the competitors. When the bullhorn sounded, I was off and running. As I ran past the Hakuba Ski Jump side-by-side with the other competitors, I thought to myself, “Jeez, there are way too many people here. I have to spend more time watching out for people than enjoying nature. Maybe I just need to run a little faster to get ahead of the crowd?” Soon enough I was ahead of the masses and was plummeting downhill into the woods below. The trail was in excellent shape. The smell of late summer was all around and the crunching leaves and twigs under my feet provided for enough noise to block out the sounds of the runners behind and ahead of me leaving me with a feeling of isolation. On the winding trail I crossed many wooden bridges, climbed and descended some fairly minor hills. Slowly I started passing people, but I never felt like I was pushing myself. My mind started to wander, and I was soon thinking about all of my past training runs. The memories put me in a sort of trance like state, but every once and awhile I would think to myself, “Boy, this is so much easier than I thought.” Before I knew it, I could see the finish line ahead. I felt like I only ran a mile and had lots of energy left so I decided to sprint the last half of a kilometer or so. I crossed the finish line 3hours 00minutes and 04 seconds after starting 20km ago. As for my goals, I think I accomplished all of them. I tried something new, enjoyed the trail and experience, and finished faster than 50% of the competitors (actually I placed 6th in my age group). I cannot wait to take part in next trail run. When I do, I will be sure to let you know and start providing you with extra tricks and tips as I learn this new activity.
I did my first practice race through the woods at Wadano and up to the top of Iwatake with one of my co-workers who graduated to trail running after completing numerous marathons. Even though Iwatake doesn’t look that big when compared to the three peaks of Hakuba, it took a lot of energy to run/jog/ walk to the top, 345 steps all the way. (Yes, I did count them all!) I was still very apprehensive about giving the race a try in fear that a sub-par experience would deflate any existing motivation I might have for trail running. On the other hand, you have to try something before you can judge it so I figured what the heck, let’s do this thing! Just in case it was to be an awful experience, I coxed my manager into joining the race as well so both of us could suffer the same misery…hehe. On the morning of Sunday September 15, 2013 I stood at the starting line of the Hakuba International Trail Run. It was 9 AM, the weather was perfect though I was still apprehensive about this new endeavor. I was certainly not out to break any records
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Here are some useful tips 1. Pick a relatively flat, short trail for your first time. Picking a steep, technical trail for your first trail run can be frustrating and dangerous if you aren’t accustomed to running on trails. I recommend running by one of Hakuba’s three main rivers.
2. Keep your eyes on the trail. This is harder than it sounds. The views in Hakuba can be quite breath taking and it can be very tempting to look around while running. However, the hazards can appear out of nowhere, causing a potentially nasty and embarrassing spill. If you want to enjoy the view, simply stop and take a look. 3. Look about one meter ahead. This allows you to see what’s coming before its too late, yet at the same time be able to react to what’s under your feet. Focusing on every branch and rock can be mentally exhausting, so allow your senses to take over. This takes practice and probably will be hard to do at first – just be patient. If you’re running with a buddy, stay a little back. This will allow you to see what they have dodged. 4. Slow down. You won’t be able to run as fast on the trails. Typically expect to be one to two minutes slower per kilometer. Few people can run at break neck speeds on a trail, and even those who can have to slow down when running trails for the first time. Trail running tends to become more about enjoying the process.
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5. Walking is fine. Many trail runners will actually walk up the steeper uphill section and walk down the downhill sections of a trail (think of Iwatake here). Walking can save energy, is easier on your legs and allows you to get through your run in one piece. Power walking up a hill can actually be faster than running, and you won’t burn as much energy in the process. 6. Running uphill. When running uphill take shorter steps than normal, trying not to gain too much vertical height in any one step. 7. Running downhill. Lean forward, but not too far that you lose control. Leaning forward will minimize the braking effect of your legs and will allow you to run faster while using less energy. 8. Slow down if the surface is wet, slippery or rocky. This is especially true during a race when one or two sections can be muddy. " Hakuba international Trail Run " This will take place on 14th September 2014. Entry is open to anyone who is reasonable fit. Four course are available, Long Course (53km), Middle Course (30km) Short Course (20km), Family and Trial Course (7.5km). Entry begins in June and closes at the end of July or until all places have been filled – so register early. www.hakubatrail.com
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Water -
A Sustenance of Life By Nadine Wilding It is water that we have to thank for our existence; it is the substance that sustains life. Not only is this planet and even our own bodies comprised mostly of water, but it makes up so much of what we do and love in life, with its immeasurable opportunities for experience, exploration and enjoyment! Here in Japan, we are 1 in only 20 countries in the world where 100% of the population has access to improved sanitation and water sources. Needless to say, we are extremely fortunate. Aside from keeping us alive and well, water has kept our forests green and luscious, kept our crops irrigated, our hot springs rejuvenating, and provided us with a plethora of activities to be enjoyed. Japan has some of the cleanest lakes and waterways in the world, and Hakuba is no exception. Spring fed lakes and rivers serve as the irrigation network for Hakuba`s produce. The purity of the water largely contributes towards the extremely palatable taste of the town`s well known rice and sake. The waterways of the Northern Alps also serve the Daio Wasabi farm in Azumino; as Japan`s largest Wasabi farm, it is known for it`s size, volume of produce and exceptional tasting Wasabi! Not only do we have our lush landscape and piquant produce, Hakuba`s waterways also enable an abundance of outdoor pursuits... Starting deep underneath the lake bed, water bubbles up through the surface and feeds the turquoise waters of alluring Lake Aokiko. Combined then, with snowmelt coming from the recently powdery peaks behind - the result is one of sublime serenity. Aokiko, one of Japan’s cleanest lake and also the headwaters for the Shinanogawa - Japan`s longest river, protects it`s purity by disallowing any motor boats on the lake. This means from Spring to Fall we are able to enjoy canoeing, kayaking, lake side picnics, swimming and fishing; and as night time throws a blanket of black over the star-strewn sky, we can become quiet observers of one of nature`s most magical moments - watching the fireflies. One of the many tours offered by Evergreen Outdoor Center and Lion Adventure is the `firefly canoe tour`, in which you can be taken into the heart of their habitat and dazzled by their delightful glow. They in themselves are a testament to Aokiko`s clean water, as these curious little creatures can only breed in the purest of places. By day or by night, Aokiko`s waters are alive with possibilities! Starting once more from deep under the ground here in Hakuba, we find the source of the `Princess River` - the Himekawa. Shrouded by tranquil trees that trap the cool air, the source trickles up, runs through the townsite and continues the 60km to the Sea of Japan. Along the way we can enjoy a stroke of Rafting or fishing, before leaving Hakuba for the coast. Our other much appreciated river is the ‘Pine River’ – the Matsukawa, though this time we have to travel up into the mountains to find its source. As
Opposite Page: Empty Canoe on Lake Aokiko Above Top: Canyoning with Evergreen Outdooor Center Above Bottom: Enjoiyng Banana Boating with Lion Adventure on Lake Kizakiko
“The purity of the water largely contributes towards the extremely palatable taste of the town`s well known rice and sake. “
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the water makes it`s way down Mount Shirouma, the snowmelt from winter’s bounty feeds into it and transforms it from a stream into a raging river. It continues its journey down the mountain and underneath Dai Sekkei, the mountain`s permanent snow field, and by the time it reaches us in the village it is full of vibrant teals and turquoises - colors lent to it by the minerals brought down from the mountains. The banks of this beauty are an ideal place to cool off during summer`s sizzle, with its three peak backdrop and it`s soft, grassy sides – it’s banks are a great spot for those looking for an enjoyable mountain bike ride, a quiet location for yoga or just an afternoon of relaxation or a family BBQ! High up in the alpine plateau of Tsugaike Natural Park, we find burbling springs and the headwaters of the Kusukawa, the river that Evergreen Outdoor Center uses for canyoning tours. As the water snakes itself through the mountains, it funnels down into the steep walled Kamoshika Canyon - carving smooth swirls into the soft igneous rock. The result is a masterpiece of smoothly sculpted basalt, creating slides and waterfalls and so giving us the perfect place to enjoy a splash of canyoning. Once again, the mountain`s minerals present us with those picture perfect aquamarines, making it a place of awe as well as adrenaline. Water is something that we can so easily take for granted, and sometimes omit to recognize or appreciate it`s myriad of provisions. From the quintessential day-to-day use in sustaining ourselves and the world around us, to enabling the sports, travel and experiences that enhance our lives, we are so wildly fortunate that we have found ourselves in a place with such an abundance of clean and beautiful water. Let`s strive to preserve and protect it for generations to come.
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Rafting on The Hime River with Happo-one ski area in the background.
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Japan's Premier Green Destination
Hakuba Iwatake
Lily Garden
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Father & Son Hiking Adventure
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father and son hiking adventure to explore the three thousand meter Hakuba peaks was on the cards during the hot summer school holidays. We decided to make it slightly more adventurous and instead of utilizing the well placed mountain huts, that cater for hikers in the high alpine, we thought that camping in our two-man tent under the stars would be far more exciting. Camping also meant carrying backpacks with said tent, sleeping bags, waterproof clothing, four full days of food, cooking equipment, flashlights and of course roll mats to protect us from the cold floor and any rocks under the tent. Practicing lifting the packs in comfort of home was easy enough, but we were a little unprepared for climbing! We chose the Happo-one ski area to Tsugaike Nature Park route, which given four days, would give us plenty of time to rest and recuperate everyday in the late afternoon sun.
Day 1 Leaving the ski lifts at Happo-one it was a fairly easy climb with my son racing off like a mountain goat on the wide boards overtaking everyone in sight. I just plodded along noticing that my backpack was getting heavier and heavier with every step. Maybe I should have chosen the mountain huts instead of camping! The first rest stop was Happo-ike Pond at 2,060m. This is a great place to enjoy lunch and take in the majestic peaks in front of you. It is one of Hakuba’s favorite day hikes so it can get a little crowded. After lunching on onigiri (rice balls), the staple food of hikers in Japan, it was back on the trail to our goal of Karamatsu Mountain Hut and campsite at 2,620m.
Day 2 We awoke before dawn to catch a glimpse of the sunrise, but unfortuntately we were shrouded in a thick mist and being rather chilly we decided to go back to sleep until the sun burnt of the clouds. After packing the tent away it was time to climb Karamatsu and follow the trail onwards to “Kaerazu-no-ken” or literally “The Point of no Return” Here the going is hard with lots of chains and old bridges to cross. It is not for the fainthearted! That night we camped at Tengu which was our favorite campsite of the hike.
Day 3 After a beautiful sunrise it was time to tackle the Hakuba Three Peaks. First was Mt Hakuba Yarigatake followed closely by Mt. Shakushi and then onto the highest peak in Hakuba, Mt. Shirouma at 2,932m. We pitched our tent that evening just below the summit and we were surprised with the number of people camping! Everyone was escaping the summer heat!
Day 4 It was nearly all downhill from here, all the way to Tsugaike Nature Park with the highlight being the beautiful Hakuba Oike Pond. The scenery passed from high alpine to marshes to forests. Wearily at the bottom we soaked at legs in the free foot onsen while enjoing a delicious ice cream at the Tsugaike base area. My bed never felt better that night! SW
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All Aboard T
he Furusato train journey can begin at any one station
though we recommend commencing at either Nagano, Matsumoto or of course Hakuba. Within minutes of the train pulling away from the station you will be in open valleys with lush green forests giving way to towering mountains and pristine blue lakes reflecting the amazing alpine images. You view all this through large windows while you are nestled into your seat. Mounted digital cameras on the front of the train provide a drivers “eye view” on flat screen monitors installed in the carriages. If you are coming from Nagano or Matsumoto to Hakuba on the weekends, you will have the added treat of disembarking from the train and enjoying a guided tour to the impressive Hotaka Shrine, followed by a cultural performance onboard the train. A good selection of refreshments are offered throughout the trip. The train runs every weekend and most other days during the summer. You can book at any manned JR train station including Hakuba. JR Rail pass holders can ride using their passes.
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ust about every kid loves steam trains and it is no secret that most dads, including this editor, are also fans of choo-choo trains. Us guys never really grow up anyway! In Hakuba you can experience travelling behind a miniature steam train on the longest mini track in Japan. The train meanders for a full kilometer through a beautiful forest park. Afterwards enjoy the sights of a bullet train travelling through the countryside and cities in the model railway house. There is a café where you can relax with a beverage while the children enjoy themselves on the playground to help them “let off steam”.
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Freewheeling Fun “Whether you like fat tires or skinny ones, the Hakuba Valley has plenty of opportunities for two wheeled adventures or even just a lazy ride around the streets. Hakuba is bike friendly, just rent a bike, grab a map and away you go!”
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akuba’s Valley Trail is a gentle path that passes along rivers, neighborhoods, ancient shrines and spectacular forests. This is an excellent choice for those looking to get a tour of Hakuba while enjoying the outdoors. The entire signposted course is either paved or made of crushed gravel, and while there are few rolling hills, the trail is built for beginners. This is a must do bike route for families or those who do not have technical mountain bike skills. But please remember that there are some hills on the trail, so the distance on the map doesn’t always account for the ups and downs.
Hire a Guide Guiding You can experience a guided MTB or cycling tour of what the Hakuba Valley has to offer. Guided rides are perfect for those who may be new to the sport or who are interested in getting the lay of the land from a local professional. Hakuba Connect recommends Sweetriders www.sweetriders.com.
All types of bikes can be rented at Spicy’s and Sanroku Tours. Detailed maps of the trails and local terrain can be picked up at local tourist information centers.
Where to Mountain Bike
Where to Road Bike
Minekata Trails
The Three Lakes
Locals know them as the Minekata Trails but are sign posted as Kikori-no-mori Trails. There is a choice of three and all are supported and well maintained by the Hakuba village. It’s a long ride up the long forest road but thankfully it is shaded from the summer heat. Arriving at the top, give yourself a few minutes to look at the amazing views of the Northern Japanese Alps with the village far below.
At the southern end of the valley in neighboring Omachi, you will find the three lakes of Lake Aokiko, Lake Nakatsuna and Lake Kizakiko. The road out of Hakuba has a little climb that will get the heart rate up, but after that it is a sweet ride around the lakes. Be careful on the northern side of lake Aokiko, the road becomes narrow with some light traffic usually coming the other way. The course is about 40km long.
From the top choose A, B or C or 1, 2 or 3 depending on who you ask. The descents are on singletrack and flow very nicely back down the valley.
Hakuba 47 Ski Resort Ride the gondola to the middle section of Hakuba 47. From here there is a chair lift to keep you going throughout the day. Enjoy fours trails from beginners to advanced. Bike rental is available at the base area.
Tsugaike Nature Park This is not for beginners. The route starts out at Hakuba-Oike Train Station on Route 148. It is a grueling 9 percent grade road climb and is popular for cycling diehards. The route is 17km up and then a free wheeling 17km down. The pros can do it in under one hour, but realistically give yourself at least two or more!
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Just follow the signs for a leisurely ride around the town. 23
Inspiration needs to come from more than just the boardroom. Open your minds and interact with one another on a whole new level. Create lasting memories while you engage your team in mental, physical and creative challenges at their desired levels of adventure.
1. Inspiring Destination Showcasing a unique setting in the Japanese Northern Alps. A truly authentic backdrop which will challenge attendees to reach their full potential.
2. Facilities No matter how large your group, there is a meeting space available. From beautiful hotel properties to state of the art Olympic Convention complex.
3. Activities Year round there is an activity for every level of adventure – all of which can be customized to ensure clients have an outstanding unique experience. Rewarding experiences create rewarding meetings.
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4. Open Air When you choose Hakuba for your meeting or conference, you will have the space and alpine mountain scenery that will provide a memorable experience.
5. Team Building Develop creative problem solving and improve team communications with fun and positive team building interactions.
6. Access Hakuba is only three and half hours from central Tokyo, but a world apart with such fabulous mountain scenery. Professional and safe transportation companies can make it easier for meetings planners as well as attendees.
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7. Accommodation From luxury hotel suites to private chalets, Hakuba has a range of hotels and private lodges to suit all budgets and tastes.
8. Dining Attendees can relish on fresh local fare from across Nagano. Give your group food that is as delicious as the mountain views. Rent out private rooms or entire restaurants.
9. Spouse Programs Don’t leave your loved ones at home. Hakuba offers a wide variety of activities for spouses and guests of visiting attendees. Indulge in some luxurious aromatherapy, massages, yoga or take a stroll around the local art galleries.
10. Natural Hot Springs Lastly don’t forget the abundant natural hot springs throughout Hakuba. Let the minerals ease away both the mental and physical tiredness. Refresh and rejuvenate attendees.
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Coffee Time If you love coffee then you won’t be disappointed in Hakuba. Expect to find many specialty shops serving great coffee as well as gourmet snacks. Take the time to relax from all the activities on offer and kick back and enjoy the atmosphere.
SOBA The classic local food in Hakuba is soba, thin brown noodles made of buckwheat, a crop grown locally. Buckwheat has distinctive yellow or white flowers and grows quickly, allowing two harvests a year even in Hakuba where the fields spend much time
L
ocal Food & Drink
under snow.
Hakuba satisfies all appetites with plenty of places to eat, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Experience fresh food in mountainside venues with amazing views and with price ranges to suit every visitor.
HakuBURGER H a k u b u r g e r, S h i r o u m a Burger and Happo Burger are just a few of the names of the local burgers available in Hakuba. With no fast food chain shops in Hakuba, you can be guaranteed to get an original delicious tasting burger every time.
Dinner Buffet There are few things that excite us more than piling our plates high with 'all you can eat' food. The Tokyu Hotel Buffet is an all new dining adventure that awaits the hungry. Western & Japanese d i s h e s , i n c l u d i n g e ve r yo n e’s favorite, chocolate fondue! . 1st-30th Aug. Two sittings 17:30 & 19:30 Adult ￥5,940 Kids 6-12 ¥3,088 Kids 4-5 ￥1,544
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Hakuba Nishiki
Sake
Brewed since 1906 in nearby Omachi, Hakuba Nishiki Sake is made from natural spring water that is found abundantly in the region. This is distilled with locally grown rice to produce one of the finest sakes in Japan.
Sushi !!!
Nagano’s contribution to the enjoyment of raw fish comes in the production of wasabi, the green radish that graces every plate of sashimi and many forms of sushi, though it can be omitted on request. Most Japanese parents do so for their children.
Galette(Crepe) In a recent development, Hakuba h a s e m b ra c e d a n a l t e r n a t i v e buckwheat dish, galettes. Galettes are basically French-style pancakes where the nutty flavor of buckwheat adds a savory dimension compared with normal crepes. Chefs at many restaurants and hotels around the town have developed their own interpretations of galettes. Make sure you pick up a leaflet from the Tourism Commission and see which one takes your fancy.
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