Hakuba may be most famous for its world-class ski slopes, but when the snow melts, this mountain village in the Northern Japanese Alps transforms into a lush summer paradise. Blueberry farms, picturesque alpine lakes perfect for SUP, cosy forest cafés, and even bold culinary adventures like a Wild Bear Meat Burgers.

Whether you’re planning a day trip from Nagano or a longer summer stay, here’s your complete guide to the best things to do in Hakuba in summer—from outdoor activities to food, cafés, and unique local experiences.

1. Blueberry Picking in Hakuba

One of Hakuba’s sweetest summer treasures is its blueberry farms, open from mid-July to late August. For just ¥1,000 per person, you can wander rows of pesticide-free bushes, tasting as many berries as you like while soaking in panoramic views of the Japanese Alps.

Kids will love meeting the friendly goats that live on-site, while adults can enjoy the calm of the mountain air. Afterward, stop at the nearby Hakuba Farm Gelateria, where fresh blueberry gelato made with fruit you just picked is the perfect way to cool off.

Read the full blueberry picking guide → here

2. SUP & Kayaking on Lake Aoki

Lake Aoki (Lake Ao) is known for its crystal-clear waters and incredible mountain backdrop. In summer, it’s one of the best places in Nagano for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, and wild swimming.

After your time on the water, relax at Ao Lakeside Café, which sits directly on the shore. The café serves light meals, handmade pasta, craft sodas, and smoothies with uninterrupted views of Lake Aoki and the Northern Alps. Terrace seating is dog-friendly, and for a unique twist, there’s even a lakeside sauna available.

Discover Ao Lakeside Café → here

3. Dining in Hakuba: Savoury Highlights

Gravity Worx has been serving locals and travelers for over 35 years. Located just a minute from Hakuba Station, this cozy log-cabin restaurant is known for its handmade pasta, seasonal specials, and unique condiments like house-fermented chili oil and basil salt.

Explore Gravity Worx → here

For something more adventurous, head to Bears Café Kumaza, home of the one-of-a-kind Bear Burger. Made with real bear meat, it’s a rare and bold food experience unique to Hakuba. If you are not feeling like a bear burger, make sure to try out their full range of wild game burgers, from lamb to duck.

Read more about Bears Café Kumaza → here

4. Dining in Hakuba: Sweet Treats

Sakulala Sweets & Bakery is a whimsical forest café offering gluten-free pastries like Salted Butter Apple Focaccia. With a dog-friendly terrace and Ghibli-like interiors, it’s one of the prettiest cafés in Hakuba. Full Sakulala Café guide → here

TABITABI Gelato & Sweets focuses on sustainability and local Nagano flavors. Their small-batch gelato highlights the best of each season, from watermelon in summer to chestnuts in autumn—all enjoyed with views of Mount Shirouma. Discover TABITABI Gelato → here

5. Indoor Activities: Kira Kira Glass

Summer in Hakuba also means that it is rainy season in Hakuba. If you happen to be caught by bad weather, do not worry, there is a wonderful activity to immerse yourself in while you wait for the skies to clear up. Step inside Kira Kira Glass and design your very own accessory to take home as a souvenir—whether it’s a bead, pendant, or small mirror. Guided by skilled artisans, you’ll shape molten glass over a flame torch, making it an unforgettable and unique experience for couples, families, and curious travelers.

Read more about Kira Kira Glass → here

So Why Visit Hakuba in Summer?

Hakuba in summer is fresh, flavorful, and full of surprises. From blueberry picking and SUP on Lake Aoki to gelato cafés and creative glass workshops, the Japanese Alps offer endless reasons to visit beyond ski season.