Hakuba Valley is home to some of the best ski resorts in Japan, offering an incredible range of terrain across ten unique ski areas set in the Northern Japanese Alps. From beginner-friendly groomers and world-class ski schools to deep powder, off-piste terrain, and terrain parks, Hakuba has a resort to suit every type of skier and snowboarder.

This guide breaks down all 10 Hakuba ski resorts, highlighting what each one is best known for, who it’s ideal for, and who it may not suit. Whether you’re visiting Hakuba for the first time, traveling with mixed-ability groups, chasing powder days, or looking for a relaxed, scenic ski experience, this guide will help you choose the best resort for snowboarding or skiing in Hakuba.

1. Happo-One — The Flagship Resort

Happo-One is Hakuba’s most iconic and challenging resort, offering the steepest vertical drop in the valley and long, continuous runs. It regularly hosts World Cup downhill races and is a favorite among strong intermediate and advanced skiers. The base area is less beginner-friendly, but the terrain rewards confident riders with sustained, demanding descents. Combined with a lively village, restaurants, and nightlife nearby, Happo-One delivers a classic, high-energy Hakuba ski experience.

⭐Happo-One is the best overall ski resort in Hakuba for skiers, offering the valley’s steepest vertical drop and long, continuous fall-line runs.

2. Able Hakuba Goryu — Well-Rounded With Variety

Able Hakuba Goryu is one of the most versatile ski resorts in Hakuba, offering a strong balance of wide groomers, steeper upper-mountain terrain, and beginner-friendly lower slopes. The gondola provides comfortable access on cold or stormy days, while the resort’s ski schools and facilities make it a popular choice for learners. With a solid range of restaurants and a direct connection to Hakuba 47, Goryu works especially well for mixed-ability groups who want variety without constantly changing resorts.

3. Tsugaike Kogen — Beginner Paradise (And Big)

Tsugaike Kogen is widely considered one of the best beginner ski resorts in Hakuba, known for its exceptionally wide, mellow runs and relaxed, uncrowded feel. The terrain is ideal for first-time skiers and snowboarders, as well as early intermediates looking to build confidence at their own pace. On powder days, the upper lifts provide access to enjoyable off-piste areas that add interest for more experienced riders. However, those seeking steep or technical terrain may find Tsugaike less exciting over multiple days.

4. Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park — Park-Focused Progression Hub

Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park is one of the most well-known resorts in Hakuba Valley for freestyle skiers and snowboarders, especially those focused on terrain park progression. It’s widely regarded as having some of the best park features in Japan, with jumps, rails, and lines that cater to beginners through advanced riders. The resort has a lively, international atmosphere and is directly connected to Able Hakuba Goryu via shared lifts, making it easy to combine park laps with longer groomer runs. Due to its popularity, it can feel busy and high-energy during peak times.

⭐ This resort ranks the overall best resort for snowboarders in Hakuba, due to its flowy terrain with minimal flat sections.

5. Hakuba Cortina — Powdery Off-Piste Heaven

Hakuba Cortina is a standout destination for deep snow and off-piste skiing, and one of the few resorts in Hakuba that openly allows tree skiing. Known for heavy snowfall and consistently deep powder, Cortina delivers intense riding experiences, especially during storm cycles. While the trail map is relatively small, the terrain feels dynamic and challenging when conditions are good. The resort can feel chaotic on big powder days, making it best suited to confident riders who are comfortable navigating deep snow and variable visibility. This resort in Hakuba in best for powder snowboarders.

6. Hakuba Norikura Onsen — Cortina, But Make It Chill

Hakuba Norikura Onsen receives similar snowfall to nearby Cortina but offers a noticeably calmer and more laid-back atmosphere. With fewer crowds and simpler lift infrastructure, it’s well suited to riders who prefer relaxed cruising and powder laps rather than structured progression or park riding. The terrain encourages a slower pace and a more traditional ski day, making it appealing to experienced riders who want deep snow without the intensity of a busier resort. Variety is limited, so it’s best enjoyed as part of a multi-resort itinerary.

7. Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field — Panoramic Views & Relaxed Vibes

Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field is known for its stunning panoramic views of the Japanese Alps and its playful, approachable terrain. While smaller than some of Hakuba’s major resorts, it offers fun side hits, rolling runs, and a relaxed overall vibe. The summit area features cafés and viewing platforms, making it popular with both skiers and non-skiers. Iwatake is ideal for riders who value scenery, atmosphere, and social spaces over steep or highly technical terrain. Check out the famous The City Bakery at Iwatake’s famed Hakuba Mountain Harbor, or if you are craving some matcha, head to Chavaty Hakuba on the slopes.

8. Jigatake — The Baby

Jigatake is a small, quiet ski resort in Hakuba designed primarily for beginners, families, and young children. Its gentle slopes, simple layout, and minimal crowds create a stress-free environment for learning to ski or snowboard. The resort lacks terrain variety and advanced runs, which keeps the atmosphere calm but limits appeal for experienced riders. Jigatake works best as a short visit or learning-focused day rather than a full-day destination.

9. Kashimayari — Local Vibes

Kashimayari offers a more traditional, local ski experience in Hakuba, with a relaxed, old-school feel and mostly Japanese guests. English services are limited, which adds to its authentic atmosphere but may be challenging for some visitors. The terrain is modest in size, with decent options for beginners and intermediates looking to progress without crowds. Kashimayari is best suited to skiers who value quiet slopes and a local vibe over modern resort infrastructure.

10. Sanosaka — Chill, Easy, Mellow, Underrated

Sanosaka is a small, scenic ski resort located beside a lake and known for its peaceful, uncrowded slopes. The wide, smooth groomers make it perfect for relaxed cruising and confidence-building days, especially for beginners and intermediates. With very little advanced terrain and minimal powder hunting, it’s not designed for thrill-seekers. Instead, Sanosaka appeals to riders who want a calm, mellow ski day in a beautiful setting.