Skiing and Snowboarding
HAKUBA SKI AREA GUIDE
Located in the foothills of the Northern Alps in northern Nagano Prefecture, Hakuba Valley is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and was the venue for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Today, it is a world-famous destination for skiing and snowboarding in Japan, offering high-quality powder snow and trails from gentle beginner slopes to long runs up to 8,000 meters.
Home to 10 unique ski resorts, Hakuba Valley caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. With well-maintained slopes, diverse terrain, and breathtaking mountain views, it remains one of Japan’s top destinations for winter sports and alpine adventure.
LIFT PASSES
Make your ski day smooth by purchasing lift tickets online in advance!
- Individual Resort Ticket
- All-mountain passes (Hakuba Valley Tickets)
Important Notes:
- For Jiigatake and Sanosaka Ski Resorts, tickets must be purchased at the ticket center.
- Online payments are accepted via Visa or MasterCard only.
How to Use Your IC Card Ticket:
- After purchasing, you’ll receive a QR code and a pick-up code.
- Use your codes to collect your ticket at the ticket center or a SKIOSK vending machine.
- Your ticket is an IC card, which can be reused at any Hakuba Valley lift. Simply recharge online when needed.
- Once activated, you can access lifts directly, without visiting the ticket center or vending machine again on the day of use.
This system allows you to save time and enjoy more time on the slopes, making your ski experience effortless and convenient.
HAKUBA VALLEY DAY PASS
Ski and ride all the resorts of the valley on just 1 pass!
- Adult: Ages 13+
- Child: Ages 6 to 12
- Free entry: Under age 6 (Under age 3 at Jigatake Snow Resort and Kashimayari Snow Resort Family Park)
- Valid at all Hakuba Valley snow resorts. Can be used at multiple resorts on the same day.
- You can ride the Hakuba Valley Shuttle Bus for free on days when you ski or snowboard.
- Not valid for night skiing or the night shuttle bus.
GEAR RENTAL SHOPS
Lion Gear Rentals
The new Echoland Base puts Lion Gear at the center of cafés, bars, and lodges for fast fittings and easy access. Guests can arrange pickup for fitting and enjoy free equipment collection at the end of the rental (nearby Echoland properties may be walk-in). Use the code BBP when pre-booking online, or mention you’re staying with The Bears Japan for a 10% discount.
Rhythm Japan
Central Snow Sports
With three convenient locations and a broad selection from Volkl, Black Crows, K2, Head, Ride, Jones, and Capita, Central Snow Sports is a reliable choice for quality and service. Pre-book to access a free guest shuttle (including bus/train station pickup—call or WhatsApp on arrival), early collection from 1:00 PM the day before, and free equipment pickup from your accommodation after your rental period.
Spicy Rentals
Locally owned since 1984, Spicy is one of Hakuba’s most established hire shops with five branches across the valley. Expect dependable equipment, friendly bilingual service, and flexible options, including switching between skis and snowboards during your stay. Ideal for quick access near the slopes.
LESSONS
The Bears Japan recommend the following options for English lessons, and we would be happy to arrange the lessons on your behalf. Please provide the following information for each member who wishes to take lessons: name, age, gender, dates and times, type of lesson (ski or snowboard), and preferred company. Once we receive this information, we will make the arrangements for you.
Group and Private lessons in Happo-One/Tsugaike
Evergreen Ski School
Teaching skiing and snowboarding in Hakuba since 2000, Evergreen International Ski School (EISS) is the premier English-language ski school in Nagano, Japan. We offer private and group lessons for all ages, from toddlers in the Yeti Club to teens in the Hakuba Heroes program, as well as adult lessons for all skill levels. Our professional, friendly instructors provide personalized coaching to help everyone—from beginners to advanced riders—improve their skills and enjoy an unforgettable winter experience.
Group and Private lessons in Goryu
Hakuba Snow Sports
Hakuba Snow Sports School offers top-quality ski and snowboard lessons in Hakuba, Japan, for all skill levels. With expert multilingual instructors, we provide group lessons at Iimori Snow Resort and private, full-day lessons across the region, ensuring a fun, safe, and personalized experience on the slopes. Whether you’re looking to master your first turns or refine advanced techniques, our team is dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
Exclusive Private Ski lessons in Hakuba 47
Hakuba Ski Concierge
Hakuba Ski Concierge is a boutique ski school based at Hakuba 47 that specializes in fully customizable private ski and snowboard lessons. With a handpicked team of highly qualified and passionate instructors, they offer signature guided experiences — including door‑to‑door transport, multi-resort flexibility, video analysis, off‑piste options, and even on‑mountain snacks or onsen breaks — all tailored to your individual goals.