Well-established in Hakuba are a variety of operators in cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, snow rafting, and heli-skiing. Hakuba is also one of the Japanese destinations that offers immersive cultural experiences for tourists such as learning how to make soba noodles, do origami, wrap oneself correctly in a kimono, and attend a Japanese tea ceremony.
Hakuba Ski Jump area
Thanks to the legacy of the Olympics, you can look down the barrel of a genuine Olympic ski jump at the Hakuba Jumping Station: take a chair lift and elevator to the top of the 90-meter and 120-meter jumps, walk out on the start gates and imagine what it would be like to descend on skis and enjoy a splendid view of the Hakuba Valley.
Matsumoto Castle
A national treasure, the Matsumoto castle was completed at the end of the 16th century and is the oldest castle still standing in Japan. Surrounded by cherry trees, a backdrop of the Japanese Alps, and stunning traditional architecture, Matsumoto Castle is a must-see experience.
Zenkoji Temple
The Zenkoji Temple is the site of the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. Zenkoji is Nagano City’s main attraction with 1400 years of history. Each year 6 million people visit this famous Buddhist temple. Rebuilt in 1707, this huge structure is a masterpiece of Buddhist-influenced architecture.
Obuse and Suzaka
The historic town of Obuse, is a terrific place to go for lunch, culture, shopping, and sake. Obuse was once home to the world-renowned wood-block artist Katsushika Hokusai and is famous for both his art and delicacies made from the local specialty, chestnuts. Neighboring Suzaka is full of traditional architecture. One can get a sense of old Japan by walking its streets lined with white-walled ‘kura’ storehouses.
Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park
The famous Jigokudani Monkey Park where visitors can see wild macaques bathing in outdoor natural hot springs is a popular day trip from Hakuba. Jigokudani is a wonderful sight on a snowy winter day.