At Hakuba Canadian Lodge, and throughout the surrounding area, you’ll discover much more than just skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or trekking.
A wealth of facilities and dining options invite you to nourish both body and mind, helping you stay healthy while embracing a richer way of living.
▼Ski Resorts ▼Summer Activities
▼Area Sightseeing ▼Recommended Dining
▼Nearby Hot Springs
Ski Resorts
The HAKUBA VALLEY is one of Japan’s premier international skiing destinations.
Set against the soaring 3,000-meter peaks of the Northern Alps, and blessed with abundant, high-quality powder snow, the valley is home to a collection of diverse ski resorts offering terrain for every level — from first-time beginners to seasoned experts.
Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort
Hakuba’s flagship resort, Happo-One boasts a breathtaking vertical drop of over 1,000 meters from top to bottom — putting it in exclusive company. The upper slopes are renowned for offering some of Japan’s finest powder snow, while the many expansive runs, including a single course stretching more than 8,000 meters, make it a paradise for skiers and riders of every level.
Able Hakuba Goryu ＆ Hakuba47
Hakuba Goryu’s Alps-Daira Slope is a favorite for its superb snow quality and breathtaking views, while the wide, gentle slopes of the Toomi and Iimori areas are perfect for beginners and families, offering plenty of space to learn and enjoy with confidence. Over at Hakuba47, the renowned snow park ranks among the very best in Japan, attracting freestyle riders from around the country and beyond with its world-class features and upbeat atmosphere.
Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field
With 26 courses designed to make the most of the mountain’s natural terrain, Hakuba Iwatake offers skiing and snowboarding for every style. From the summit, visitors are treated to one of the finest panoramas in the HAKUBA VALLEY, with incredible sweeping views of the Northern Alps. Beyond the slopes, Iwatake is also equipped with facilities that make it enjoyable as a winter sightseeing destination — even for those who don’t ski or ride.
Tsugaike Mountain Resort
Famous for its vast slopes and abundant snowfall, Tsugaike offers something for everyone. The resort’s enormous 1,200-meter-wide gentle beginner slope is ideal for families and first-timers, providing plenty of space to learn and ride safely. For powder seekers, the “TSUGAPOW DBD” area delivers plenty of deep snow and thrills, while the “SNOW WOW!” activity zone is a perfect place for kids or groups of friends to play in the snow, or take a break from skiing.
Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort
Known for its wide, gentle slopes, Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort is an ideal choice for beginners and families looking to ski with confidence. At the same time, advanced riders will find plenty of challenging terrain — including a heart-poundingly steep 38-degree slope and dedicated mogul lanes. For powder lovers, the resort also offers extensive ungroomed areas where you can fully experience the thrill of abundant untouched snow.
Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort
Renowned for some of the heaviest snowfall in the valley, Hakuba Cortina is famous for its steep, ungroomed slopes and tree-skiing areas that delight powder hunters. At the same time, the resort also caters to families and beginners with the expansive Ikenota Slope, whose base area hosts the largest kids’ park in the HAKUBA VALLEY. After a day on the mountain, guests can unwind at the fairy-tale-like Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba, located right at the resort’s base, where soothing hot spring baths and a generous buffet provide the perfect après-ski indulgence.
Hakuba Sanosaka Ski Resort
Surrounded by forest and overlooking a serene lake, Hakuba Sanosaka is known for its picturesque setting and light, high-quality powder snow. The resort’s well-groomed, wide slopes of gentle to intermediate grade are especially popular with families, couples, and groups seeking a relaxed day on the mountain. Thanks to its sheltered location, Sanosaka is less affected by the wind, meaning lift closures are rare and guests can count on a full day of skiing or riding.
Summer Activities
From hiking and trekking in the Northern Alps to outdoor adventures in the forests, lakes, and skies, the HAKUBA VALLEY offers countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors. With its cool climate and wide range of activities, the valley has become an increasingly popular summer destination, attracting more and more visitors each and every year.
Trekking
Happo-One Nature Trail
Beginning in front of the Happo-ike Sanso Lodge, this trail climbs to Happo Pond at an elevation of 2,060 meters in about one hour. On clear days, the pond becomes a natural mirror, reflecting the majestic Hakuba Sanzan peaks — a view not to be missed. From Happo Pond, the trail continues on to Mt. Karamatsu (2,696 m), a celebrated alpine hike that ranks as one of Japan’s most popular.
Tsugaike Nature Park
Set within the Chubu-Sangaku National Park, the Tsugaike Nature Park is a series of high-altitude marshlands accessible through a well-maintained 5.5 km trail featuring extended sections of boardwalk. Along the way, visitors can enjoy a rich variety of alpine flowers and plants as well as sweeping, up-close views of the Northern Alps. In autumn, the area transforms into one of Hakuba’s most stunning spots for vibrant fall foliage.
Mt. Kotomi Trekking Course
This trail, running from the Jizō Cairn to the summit of 2,007 m Mt. Kotomi, rewards hikers with stunning views of the Northern Alps, including the imposing rocky pyramid of Mt. Goryu and the Kakunezato Sekkei — a snow feature recently recognized as Nagano Prefecture’s first official glacier, and only the fourth to be identified in all of Japan.
Outdoor Activities
Nire Pond Fishing Center
Just a five-minute walk from Hakuba Canadian Lodge, this village-managed fishing spot offers something for everyone. Beginners can enjoy the easy-going bait fishing area, while experienced anglers will appreciate the lure and fly fishing zones. Best of all, the fish you catch can be grilled on-site and served fresh — a true taste of Hakuba’s bountiful outdoors.
Hakuba47 (Asobi Okoku 47)
At an elevation of 1,200 meters, the 47’s Alpine Area is home to thrilling activities like zip-lining and a tree adventure obstacle course. Down at the 820-meter Base Area, families can enjoy hands-on fun such as fish catching, mountain biking, barbecues, and camping. A scenic ride on the gondola connects the two areas, making it easy to enjoy the full range of experiences in a single visit.
Hakuba Lion Adventure
One of Hakuba’s leading outdoor guide companies, Hakuba Lion Adventure offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Try a tethered hot-air balloon ride from Happo’s No. 6 parking lot for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the valley, or head to Lake Aoki for SUP and canoe rentals. For thrill-seekers, rafting trips on the Sai and Hime rivers provide an unforgettable way to experience the power of Hakuba’s rushing mountain waters.
The Three Nishina Lakes
The Three Nishina Lakes — Lake Aoki, Lake Nakatsuna, and Lake Kizaki — each offer a different way to experience the beauty of Hakuba’s surroundings. Lake Aoki is perhaps the most famous, and is known for its exceptional water clarity, with fresh spring water bubbling up from the lakebed that makes it one of the clearest lakes in Japan. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and canoeing are especially popular here. Lake Nakatsuna is a favorite spot for fishing, with crucian carp the main target in summer and smelt fishing taking over on the ice in winter. Lake Kizaki, the largest of the three, also offers smelt fishing, along with water sports, and camping, that make it a lively hub for outdoor fun.
Dog House Barney’s
Opened in July 2024, Dog House Barney’s is a hotel exclusively for dogs, located near JR Hakuba Station. From Hakuba Canadian Lodge, it’s just a 7 to 8 minute drive, making it a convenient option for guests traveling with pets.
Area Sightseeing
Summer in Hakuba offers plenty to explore, from Hakuba Iwatake — one of the valley’s most popular destinations — to the Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden, where a wide variety of alpine flowers bloom, and everything in between. It’s also possible to visit some of Nagano Prefecture’s most famous landmarks within 90 minutes by car, including Matsumoto Castle, Zenkoji Temple, and the Kurobe Dam. With so many attractions nearby, Hakuba is the perfect base for discovering the best of Japan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort
Hakuba Iwatake has become one of the area’s best-known destinations, thanks in no small part to the breathtaking views from Hakuba Mountain Harbor, the wildly popular Yoo-hoo! Swing and Hakuba Giant Swing, and for the full range of activities on offer including mountain biking, mountain carts, and even horseback riding.
Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden
Spread across the Alps-Daira area at an elevation of 1,515 meters, Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden is one of Japan’s foremost alpine flower parks. From June to October, over 2 million plants representing more than 300 species bloom in colorful succession. Visitors also have the opportunity to see rare and treasured flowers up close, such as the delicate komakusa (Dicentra peregrina) and the striking Himalayan blue poppy.
Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium
This iconic ski jump was the venue for the Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Visitors can ride the lift up to the starting point of the large hill, perched about 140 meters above the ground, for a thrilling view of the landing slope below. On the middle floor, an Olympic Gallery showcases exhibits and memorabilia from the Games, offering a glimpse into Hakuba’s proud Olympic history.
Zenkoji Temple
Located about an hour’s drive from Hakuba Canadian Lodge, Zenkoji is a Buddhist temple with a rich history spanning some 1,400 years. Its principal image, the Ikko Sanzon Amida Nyorai, is said to be the oldest Buddha statue in Japan, and the Main Hall itself has been designated as a National Treasure. On approach to the temple, visitors can stroll down the bustling Nakamise Street, lined with souvenir shops and eateries, embarking on a pilgrimage full of both cultural and culinary experiences.
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle, roughly 90 minutes by car from Hakuba Canadian Lodge, is one of five Japanese castles designated as National Treasures, and among only twelve whose original main keep still stands. Built during the Sengoku (Warring States) period from the late 15th to early 17th centuries, the castle retains its imposing, authentic structure, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Its stately black-and-white facade has become a proud symbol of Matsumoto City, admired for both its beauty and commanding presence.
Kurobe Dam
Straddling Toyama and Nagano Prefectures, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is Japan’s most famous mountain sightseeing route, stretching 37.2 kilometers through spectacular alpine scenery. From its gateway, Ogizawa Station, a short ride on an electric bus brings you directly to Kurobe Dam — Japan’s largest arch-style concrete dam. Aside from the incredibly picturesque setting, the highlight of any visit to the dam are the massive water discharges, an heart-pounding and awe-inspiring spectacle when viewed up close.
Togakushi
A sacred destination famed as a spiritual “power spot,” Togakushi is one of Nagano’s most atmospheric sightseeing areas. The path to the Okusha (Inner Shrine) is lined with towering cedars over 400 years old, setting the stage for what is a dramatic and awe-inspiring approach (pictured). The area is also renowned throughout Japan for Togakushi soba hand-made buckwheat noodles, with many long-established restaurants serving this delicate and delicious regional specialty.
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Tucked deep in the valley of the Yokoyu River, which flows down from the highlands of Shiga Kogen, Jigokudani Monkey Park is a veritable paradise for wild Japanese macaques, often referred to by their nickname “snow monkeys”. Here, visitors can witness the world-famous sight of monkeys soaking in natural hot springs — a rare behavior found nowhere else on earth. Open year-round, the park draws travelers from around the globe who come to see these endearing creatures regardless of the season.
Recommended Dining
Guests of Hakuba Canadian Lodge can enjoy a number of dining options, including the buffet and pub at our sister property, Hakuba Mominoki Hotel, or refined French cuisine served just across the way at Hakuba Tokyu Hotel.
Meanwhile, the Happo area is home to several soba restaurants offering handmade noodles, a local specialty.
With so many attractive dining options around the lodge, you’re sure to find the perfect taste to suit every mood.
Shara (Located Inside Hakuba Mominoki Hotel)
Showcasing the flavors of Shinshu, Shara combines carefully selected local ingredients with the skill and artistry of the hotel’s executive chef. From main dishes to desserts, guests can indulge in a wide variety of regularly updated buffet offerings.
Opening Hours: 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The Pub (Located Inside Hakuba Mominoki Hotel)
Hakuba’s very first authentic English pub, The Pub offers a lively atmosphere with a wide selection of beers and whiskies from around the world. Popular menu favorites include pizzas, burgers, and other hearty pub classics — the perfect way to relax after a day in the mountains.
Operating Season: July 19 to August 16, and mid-December to late March
Opening Hours: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (last order at 8:30 p.m.)
Restaurant Chamonix (Located Inside Hakuba Tokyu Hotel)
A French restaurant that celebrates both the flavors of Shinshu and the freshness of seasonal ingredients. Guests can enjoy a refined full-course menu that changes with the seasons, along with vegan selections and occasional themed events and food fairs. It’s the perfect setting to share an indulgent dining experience with someone special.
Tonkatsu Specialty Restaurant Tsumugi
Just a three-minute walk from the Happo Bus Terminal, Tsumugi is a restaurant dedicated to the perfect tonkatsu. Only carefully selected pork from across Japan is used, along with breadcrumbs and frying oil chosen specifically to bring out the best in each cutlet. In addition to its in-house menu, Tsumugi also offers a wide selection of takeout options.
Ohyokkuri
Located in the heart of Happo Town, Ohyokkuri is a welcoming, old-style kominka restaurant specializing in local Shinshu cuisine. Its signature namesake dish, ohyokkuri, is a hearty dumpling soup and regional favorite. The menu also features handmade oyaki dumplings and unique onsen udon noodles kneaded with Hakuba Happo Onsen water. The restaurant is about a 15-minute walk from Hakuba Canadian Lodge.
Ringoya
About a 12-minute walk from Hakuba Canadian Lodge, Ringoya is a traditional hand-made soba restaurant. Not only is the soba itself exceptional, but the katsuo-dashi dipping sauce is another point of pride for the establishment. Other specialties include oshibori-jiru, a spicy daikon and miso broth, and the customer favorite kurumi-dare rich walnut dipping sauce.
Soba-dokoro Riki
A popular eatery serving hand-made soba, galettes, and oyaki dumplings. Riki’s specialty is nihachi soba (80% buckwheat flour, 20% wheat flour), made with locally grown Hakuba buckwheat. Only the sweetest, most flavorful core of the grain is milled, resulting in fine, delicate noodles with a pale color — yet full of rich aroma and taste.
Soba Shubo Zen
This soba spot specializes in hand-made noodles crafted from Shinshu-grown buckwheat flour and the pure spring water of the Northern Alps. Alongside soba, the menu features a wide variety of dishes including udon and rice bowls, complemented by an excellent selection of shochu and sake. With table seating, tatami rooms, and a counter, Zen offers a welcoming atmosphere for both quick lunches and relaxed evenings.
Nearby Hot Springs
The Hakuba area and its neighboring towns of Otari and Omachi are home to a wide variety of natural hot springs.
Among them, Hakuba Happo Onsen, Hakuba Shionomichi Onsen, and Hakuba Himekawa Onsen are especially well known for their reputed therapeutic benefits.
Hot spring hopping by car is a wonderful way to experience the different water qualities while enjoying the scenery throughout the valley.
Kurashita no Yu
The slightly salty taste of its waters comes from ancient seawater, sealed away underground by the massive Fossa Magna fault line that divides the Japanese archipelago, and pumped up from a depth of 1,050 meters. Rich in salt and iron, the spring water emerges crystal clear but quickly oxidizes when exposed to air, turning a deep reddish-brown.
Happo no Yu
The largest and newest of the Hakuba Happo Onsen day-use facilities, Happo no Yu offers both indoor baths and a covered open-air bath with panoramic views of the Northern Alps. Conveniently located at the Happo No. 2 Parking Lot, it’s just a three-minute drive from Hakuba Canadian Lodge.
Mimizuku no Yu
Mimizuku no Yu is fed by the mineral-rich waters of Hakuba Happo Onsen, one of Japan’s rare natural hydrogen hot springs, and is conveniently located near Snow Peak Land Station Hakuba. Popular with locals, it features an open-air bath where you can soak while taking in sweeping views of Hakuba Happo-One and the three major Hakuba Sanzan peaks.
Obinata no Yu
Located on the way from Hakuba Canadian Lodge to the Hakuba Daisekkei hiking trail to Mt. Shirouma, Obinata no Yu is the day-use hot spring facility nearest to the source of Hakuba Happo Onsen. Its open-air bath, built around massive natural boulders, offers a deeply soothing experience for both body and mind. Please note that Obinata no Yu is only open during limited periods of the year.
