Live Up Hakuba A Guide By Hakuba Hotel Group

Beyond the Slopes Endless adventures at your fingertips Adrenalin Snow, surf, and skate in and around Hakuba Wild Hakuba Exploring the wildlife of the valley 1 LIVE UP RUBRIK

WINTER 2023|24 ISSUE NO. 1

LIVE UP HAKUBA

Explore.

Enjoy.

Live up.

Dear Readers, Welcome to Hakuba, celebrated globally for its unparalleled powder snow.

Yet its allure extends far beyond the snowy mountain slopes. In our pages, we dedicate ourselves to sharing the most captivating attractions, enticing eateries, and remarkable individuals, in order to inspire a distinctly Hakuba experience.

"Live Up" encourages you to seize life as an adventure and as an expression of individual style. It embodies the thrill of fresh powder at sunrise and the cozy indulgence of fireside dining at dusk.

It is a plea to fully embrace the beauty and sophistication of the Hakuba Valley.

Experience life at high altitudes with unmistakable style. Live Up.

Imprint MANAGING EDITOR

John Blagys CONTENT MANAGER

Isabel Graf

パ ウ ダ ー ス ノ ー が 魅 力 の 白 馬 へ よ う こ そ

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Lisa Herljevic Design Studio Anomali PHOTOGRAPHERS

Henry Bryant (Cover), Jack Arthur, Mirae Campbell, Mathis Dumas, Erin Edenholm, Jake Foxley, Oliver Godbold, Kevin Kentaro, Atsushi Nakatera, Pat Stevenson TRANSLATOR

Shoko Ishino

JOHN BLAGYS & THE HAKUBA HOTEL GROUP TEAM

PUBLISHER

Hakuba Hotel Group 5090-1, Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301, Japan John Blagys john@hakubahotelgroup.com +81 50 4560 1086 Live Up Hakuba is published by Hakuba Hotel Group and is released twice a year. Unauthorized reproduction or storage of any portion of this publication, without the prior written permission of the publisher, is strictly prohibited.

While utmost effort and care have been invested to maintain the accuracy of the information in this publication, neither the publisher nor its employees can be held responsible for errors or omissions, or for any consequences arising from reliance on this publication.

© 2023 Hakuba Hotel Group

4

LIVE UP VALLEY

6

The Valley An alpine paradise in Nagano Prefecture

32 Good Fellas Hakuba is home to a rich diversity of wildlife

LIVE UP CULTURE

16 Beyond the Slopes Culture abounds in the Hakuba Valley

38 Après. All. Day. The Snow Machine music festival returns to Hakuba

LIVE UP FLAVOR

LIVE UP SPORT

22 A Taste of Hakuba

14 Adrenalin

Hakuba offers a delightful culinary experience with a wide range of restaurants

A story about the perfect Hakuba day with Pat Berrell on snow, waves, and wood

36 Hakuba’s most wanted The latest must-have snow gear available in Hakuba

40 Pow Pow Powder skiing tips from Hakuba local and business owner, Nadine Robb WINTER 2023|24 ISSUE NO. 1

LIVE UP HAKUBA

5

6

LIVE UP VALLEY

The Valley 昔 も 今 も 歴 史 的 な 谷

Nestled in the majestic Northern Alps of Nagano Prefecture, lies the charming village of Hakuba. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and high density of ski resorts, Hakuba offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of this alpine terrain.

LIVE UP HAKUBA

7

THE DAWN OF MOUNTAIN SPORTS

For thousands of years people have inhabited the base of the Japanese Alps living in harmony with the mountains and farming the fertile soil in the valley. The historic residents deemed the mountains sacred spaces and local authorities even forbade anyone from climbing them. Regulations loosened during the Meiji Restoration (1868 – 1889) as Japan embraced Western influence, and intrepid adventurers began to summit Hakuba’s peaks from 1874, ushering in the dawn of mountain sports in Hakuba.

SAKKA 1960

白 馬 の 魅 力 的 な 歴 史

A HISTORY OF SKIING

Downhill skiing was first introduced to Japan in nearby Niigata Prefecture in 1911 by Austrian Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Edler von Lerch who was brought to Japan to teach mountain warfare and skiing to the Japanese army. Skiing quickly grew from a military exercise to an adventure activity capturing the enthusiasm of the people of Hakuba who wholeheartedly embraced its enjoyment.

THE BIRTH OF HAPPO-ONE RESORT

MARUYAMA-SAN

After World War II, university professor and Hakuba resident, Fukuoka Takayuki, garnered local government and community support in order to establish the first ski run on Happo-One, the Riesen Slalom Course. He then organized the Riesen Slalom Competition in 1947 which is held annually to this day.

In the absence of ski lifts or ropeways, the initial skiers on the Riesen Slalom Course showcased remarkable mountain climbing abilities in order to ascend 1,030 meters to reach the top of the run.

This illustrates the close bond between skiing and mountain climbing in the early era of Japanese skiing. It wasn‘t until seven years later that the Nakiyama Lift became operational, linking the mountain‘s base to the Riesen Slalom Course.

IWATAKE 1935

8

LIVE UP VALLEY

PHOTOS WWW.TAIGAKUKAN.JP

数 多 く の イ ベ ン ト を 開 催 し た 1 9 9 8 年 冬 季 オ リ ン ピ ッ ク

OLYMPIC LEGACY

Hakuba gained international recognition when it played host to several events during the 1998 Nagano Olympics including ski jumping, downhill, super-G, Nordic combined and cross-country events. This was Japan’s most successful Winter Olympics to date with five gold medals being awarded to the host. Of these, two were earned in ski jumping in Hakuba.

To this day, the Olympic legacy remains prevalent in Hakuba, with many visitors flocking to the Olympic venues to relive the excitement and enjoy the infrastructure that was developed for the games but persists for the benefit of the local community and visitors alike.

PHOTO KISHIMOTO CORPORATION

LIVE UP HAKUBA

9

極 上 の パ ウ ダ ー ス ノ ー

THE HAKUBA VALLEY AT A GLANCE

The Hakuba Valley is not a single resort but a stunning valley spread across 40 kilometers, and home to 10 resorts with over 200 runs for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. With an average annual snowfall of over 10 meters, the Hakuba Valley is often among the snowiest ski resorts in the world.

Backcountry enthusiasts will feel at home with Hakuba’s steep and challenging off-piste terrain which is easily accessible without violating local resort rules and without enduring long hikes.

There are several excellent multilingual ski touring companies to lead you through the backcountry safely.

10

LIVE UP VALLEY

THE HAKUBA VALLEY PASS IS SOLD ONLINE AND GRANTS ACCESS TO ALL 10 RESORTS IN THE HAKUBA VALLEY. PASS HOLDERS CAN ALSO RIDE THE INTER-RESORT SHUTTLE SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE.

The Hakuba Valley 初 JIIGATAKE Seven 心 runs and gentle 者 slopes welcome も 楽 kids and beginners し to practice their め turns without る

crowded terrain.

フ KASHIMAYARI ァ Enjoy the slopes ミ with the Japanese リ ー ski community に or take a turn on 人 the 500 meter 気

ド SANOSAKA This ッ resort is dog グ friendly and you フ レ can even bring ン your furry friend ド on the lifts. リ ー

H GORYU The "TooA mi Zone" is very K gentle and likeU B wise the Iimori A section is perfect 4 for finding your 7 と ski legs. 繋 が る

白 HAPPO-ONE 馬 "Happo" boasts エ 1701 meters of リ ア vertical drop and 最 has the steepest 大 slope in Japan. の B I G ゲ レ ン デ

充 HAKUBA47 実 This resort の shares a lift ス ノ ticket with ー Goryu— get パ two for one. ー ク が あ る

long snow tubing course.

Jigatake

Happo-One Goryu Kashimayari

12

LIVE UP VALLEY

Sanosaka

Hakuba47

ツ IWATAKE When リ people flock to ー Cortina for tree ラ ン skiing on those コ powder days it ー leaves Iwatake ス が quiet with com魅 parable tree lines 力

パ TSUGAIKE KOGEN ウ As an advanced ダ skier, get the ー ス "Double Black ノ Diamond" pass ー and enjoy the で 人 lift-accessed 気 tree runs.

リ NORIKURA Your フ ticket for Norikura ト is valid at Cortina 券 は and vice versa. コ Go explore Noriル kura and escape チ ナ the crowds. で も 利 用 可 能

available.

白 CORTINA As the 馬 most northern エ ski resort of the リ ア Hakuba Valley, the 最 resort receives up 北 to twice as much 端 に snow as other 位 resorts and has 置 some of Japan’s す る best tree skiing.

Tsugaike Kogen Iwatake

Norikura Cortina

LIVE UP HAKUBA

13

Adrenalin

The following is an account of a perfect Hakuba day– one where the stars aligned, the snow was deep, and the waves were pumping.

This is the story of The Hakuba Trifecta, where three friends traveled sideways on snow, waves, and wood in one remarkable journey.

THE REQUIRED TOOLS FOR THE HAKUBA TRIFECTA

7:00 AM With red eyes from a long night behind the counter at Holy Smokes, the speakeasy bar he owns in Echoland, Pat’s alarm cuts the morning silence. The mountains are calling, and he must go.

7:30 AM A journey through the elements requires proper fueling. Pat heads to Calico, his own restaurant, orders three double espressos and three brekky burritos for the road. He’s soon met by his partners in this journey, Jack and Jake, and they head to the lifts with breakfast in hand.

8:00 AM The men waste no time.

They catch the first lift at Happo-One. The fresh snow from the last few days has settled, leaving nothing but sunshine and deep untracked powder. To this day, nothing excites him more than a bluebird powder day.

PAT BERRELL IS A HAKUBA RESIDENT AND OWNER OF CALICO, HOLY SMOKES, AND CANTINA.

14

LIVE UP SPORT

8:30 AM Equipped with his avi-pack and beacon, they hike 20 minutes from the top lift to drop into challenging backcountry terrain, reserved only for the most experienced of riders with detailed knowledge of the area, snow conditions, and forecast.

8:45 AM Strapped and loaded, Pat takes in one last view of the snow covered ridge line. Adrenaline pumping he drops in and he carves his way down the wide, open face with deep powder all the way.

9:15 AM Reaching the designated meeting point, Pat looks up, finds his line and smiles. The guys arrive soon after and they trek across the river and back to the car they had parked for phase two of the journey.

9:30 AM They hit the road, heading one and a half hours to the Japan Sea. The destination is just south of the coastal village of Joetsu, where winter barrels are possible and frigid temperatures guaranteed.

11:30 AM The east coast waves can be elusive, but after days of storms Pat and the boys believe they have luck on their side. As it so often happens with perfect, once-in-a lifetime days, the waves were firing. Equipped with winter wetsuits and a strong sense of purpose, they waste no time and brave the icy waves.

1:30 PM With salty hair and purple lips, Pat bids the beach farewell and they begin the journey back to Hakuba. But first, they stop for spicy chicken and hot coffee from the nearby Lawson "Konbini"— food for the soul.

3:30 PM Back in Hakuba, Pat heads straight to True Players, the local indoor skate park, to finish off The Trifecta with a couple hours of skating.

5:30 PM With the challenge complete, it’s time for an onsen bath followed by a beer at Holy Smokes to celebrate a memory that will last a lifetime. Cheers to The Hakuba Trifecta.

FROM CARVING MOUNTAINS TO RIDING WAVES, AND FINALLY DROPPING IN AT TRUE PLAYERS, PAT’S STORY EPITOMIZES THE THRILLING HAKUBA ADVENTURES AWAITING THOSE DARING ENOUGH TO EMBRACE THEM.

白 馬 で は サ ー フ ィ ン か ら ス ノ ー ボ ー ド 、 ス ケ ー ト ま で 楽 し め る

LIVE UP HAKUBA

15

16

LIVE UP CULTURE

白 馬 と 周 辺 エ リ ア は 魅 力 溢 れ る ス ポ ッ ト が 多 く あ る

Beyond the Slopes What distinguishes Japanese ski holidays from other global destinations is the unique combination of world-class powder snow and unparalleled cultural attractions. Here are just a few remarkable experiences exclusive to Japan and easily accessible from Hakuba.

ニ ホ ン ザ ル を 見 ら れ る

地 獄 谷 温 泉 で は 入 浴 す る

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Distance from Hakuba: 90 min Jigokudani (The Valley of Hell in Japanese) is home to the world’s sole troupe of monkeys known to bathe in naturally occurring hot springs. Visiting these world famous monkeys relaxing in the soothing waters is a truly captivating and heartwarming wildlife experience.

LIVE UP HAKUBA

17

白 馬 エ リ ア の お 気 に 入 り の 温 泉

Onsen For a more tranquil experience, unwind in one of Hakuba‘s many natural hot springs, known as onsen. The healing properties of the mineral-rich waters combined with the serene surroundings offer the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after an exhilarating day on the slopes.

These are our favorite onsen in Hakuba KURASHITA ONSEN

Kurashita Onsen is one of the most mineralized onsen in the Hakuba Valley and features a distinctive milky-hued water. Positioned just to the right after crossing the bridge en route from Happo Village to Iwatake, this traditional gem offers splendid slope views. Kindly note that visitors should bring their own bath towels.

HAKUBA HIGHLAND ONSEN

Perhaps the best onsen view in all of Hakuba, Hakuba Highland Onsen is located within the Highland Hotel, perched on the base of the valley op-

18

LIVE UP CULTURE

posite the resorts. Bathers have spectacular unimpeded views of Happo-One and Hakuba47. The facility features a sauna, indoor and outdoor baths, and a lounge area to enjoy after your soak.

MIMIZUKU ONSEN

Mimizuku Onsen is a favorite among Hakuba locals for its stunning views of Happo-One resort from both indoor and outdoor baths. Adjacent to Kengo Kuma’s Hakuba Land Station, this facility provides the perfect post-bath experience with the option to enjoy a Starbucks coffee.

わ 日 れ 本 る 三 野 大 沢 火 温 祭 泉 り 道 の 祖 ひ 神 と 祭 つ り と 言

Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival Distance from Hakuba: 90 min The annual Nozawa Fire Festival, held on January 15th, is a unique event where villagers construct a three story wooden structure for a symbolic and fiery battle. The elder generation of the village fights to protect it, while the younger generation strives to burn it down, symbolizing the rite of passage into adulthood and concluding with a fiery spectacle.

約 1, 4 0 0 年 の 歴 史 を 誇 る 寺 院

Zenkoji Temple Distance from Hakuba: 60 min This 8th century Buddhist temple is among the most significant religious destinations in Japan and is said to be home to the first Buddhist icon ever brought to the island nation.

LIVE UP HAKUBA

19

Go out and explore There is plenty to do in and around Hakuba

TOGAKUSHI SHRINES | 90 MIN

Comprising five Shinto shrines interconnected by paths and hiking trails and lined with centuries-old cedar trees, this sacred site beautifully embodies the harmonious blend of nature and spirituality in Japanese culture.

NAGANO | 60 MIN

Nagano City is 45 kilometers from Hakuba and the perfect half-day or fullday getaway. The city is rich in culture and cuisine and is easily accessible by both car and bus.

HAKUBOUNCE | 5 MIN

Hakubounce is the quintessential rainy day activity in Hakuba, where kids and adults alike can jump and laugh at Hakuba’s premiere indoor attraction. There is also a complimentary kids‘ corner available for children under three years of age.

HAKUBA LAND STATION | 5 MIN

World class architect, Kengo Kuma, successfully translated his vision of creating a social space that "connects people to nature and people with each other" when he designed Hakuba Land Station, a facility featuring a Snow Peak retail and experience center, Starbucks, and a restaurant.

MATSUMOTO CITY MUSEUM OF ART る 五 重 六 階 の 天 守 で 有 名 だ

20

松 本 城 は 日 本 最 古 の 現 存 す

Visit the Matsumoto Castle Distance from Hakuba: 90 min Matsumoto Castle, counted among Japan‘s twelve surviving original castles, is celebrated for its striking black exterior, earning it the moniker "The Crow‘s Castle." This well preserved and iconic 16th-century structure holds the prestigious designation of a Japanese National Treasure, serving as a testament to Japan‘s rich history and distinctive architectural legacy.

LIVE UP CULTURE

90 MIN

The globally acclaimed artist, Yayoi Kusama, is a Matsumoto native and her hometown museum proudly houses a permanent collection of her artistic masterpieces. Unlike her exhibits in New York, London, and Tokyo, the Yayoi Kusama exhibit in Matsumoto offers easy accessibility without the need for advance reservations.

A Taste of Hakuba 白 馬 で は 楽 し い 食 体 験 が で き る

Hakuba boasts a rich diversity of culinary experiences with restaurants ranging from traditional Japanese to western gourmet and everything in between.

Among the myriad excellent eateries in the three popular villages surrounding the Olympic Happo-One Resort – Wadano, Happo Village, and Echoland – here are just a few worth exploring.

RESTAURANTS

LANDMARKS

1

A

2 3 4 5 6 7

Tori Co. The Rabbit Hole Mimi‘s The Clubhouse Blizzard Bernd‘s Keller Hakuba Après

B C D E F G H

22

LIVE UP FLAVOR

Sakka Slope Central Snow Sports Spicy Rentals Rhythm Japan Kokusai Slope Happo Gondola Nakiyama Slope Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal

八 方 尾 根

Happo-One

LIVE UP HAKUBA

23

GOURMET ITALIAN

Mimi‘s Restaurant & Bar Hakuba‘s most luxurious fine dining experience Experience the culinary excellence that has earned Mimi‘s Restaurant & Bar the top spot among Hakuba restaurants on TripAdvisor. Nestled within the sophisticated Phoenix Hotel, Mimi‘s boasts distinctive Italian cuisine, international wines, impeccable service, and unparalleled ambiance.

白 馬 で ト ッ プ ク ラ ス の フ ァ イ ン ダ イ ニ ン グ 体 験

Renowned chefs Kazu and Yuki Shimamoto, a husband and wife team, craft extraordinary dishes that showcase the finest local produce, game, and fish. Discover a fusion of classic Italian flavors presented in a contemporary, international fashion as you embark on a truly remarkable gastronomic adventure at Mimi‘s Restaurant & Bar.

OPENING HOURS

5:30pm – 10pm FIND US

4690-2 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301 +81 26 172 4060 BOOK NOW!

24

LIVE UP FLAVOR

AMERICAN-ITALIAN

The Clubhouse Powered by Stars’n Cacio From Kyoto to Hakuba

白 馬 で 新 星 を 発 見

After its successful launch in Kyoto in 2020, Stars‘n Cacio is opening a much anticipated three month pop-up collaboration with The Clubhouse in Hakuba this winter. The Clubhouse Powered

by Stars‘n Cacio will serve Italian and American comfort food with a luxurious touch. The menu includes items ranging from truffle fries and fried calamari to lasagna and pork ribs.

OPENING HOURS

7am – late FIND US

5090 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301 +81 504 56 01086 BOOK NOW!

MEET THE CHEF: ANDREA FERRERO

Andrea Ferrero is the creative mind behind Stars'n Cacio. Andrea has been a chef since his youth and worked as Executive Chef in some of the world's finest hotels, like the Bulgari Hotel, Milan and Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo.

"MY AIM IS TO GO AGAINST COMMON EXPECTATIONS OF WHAT LUXURY IS. OUR PRODUCE IS OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY, BUT I WANT TO CREATE AN EXPERIENCE THAT APPEALS TO ALL SENSES AND HAVE FILLED THE SPACE WITH ART AND LIFE. IT’S VERY PERSON-

What sets Andrea apart from other chefs is that he is a curator by heart. He not only selects the best ingredients for his dishes and presents them skillfully, he invents the drinks, creates or selects the art displayed in the restaurant, curates the music, the staff outfits and all the small details that make Stars'n Cacio a one-of-a-kind lifestyle brand.

AL. IN THE STARS‘N CACIO WORLD, LUXURY IS DEFINED BY EMOTIONS AND IN THE END, IT’S ABOUT THE ENTIRE EXPERIENCE THAT ONE REMEMBERS." ANDREA FERRERO

LIVE UP HAKUBA

25

OPENING HOURS

11:30am – 9pm FIND US

4075 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301 +81 261 85 0198 GERMAN | WESTERN

Bernd’s Keller at Marillen Hotel Rustic alpine German cuisine Ski to the door for après German beers and cheese fondue on the outdoor patio or dine fireside while watching the snow fall on the floodlit Nakiyama Slope.

Either way you’ll love the rustic Bernd’s Keller. Located within The Marillen Hotel, Bernd‘s Keller features authentic Bavarian alpine classics such as schnitzels and pork knuckle paired with imported German draft beers.

Operated by the dynamic husband and wife duo, Bernd and Naoko, who bring two decades of experience from owning one of Tokyo‘s most popular German eateries, Bernd‘s Bar, this venue promises a warmly inviting experience that seamlessly combines tradition with warmth and flavor.

26

LIVE UP FLAVOR

素 朴 な ア ル プ ス の ド イ ツ 料 理

BOOK NOW!

Secret Sips, Snowy Whispers.

OPENING HOURS

4pm – 10pm FIND US

4836 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301 +81 261 85 0808 JAPANESE

Tori Co. Slope-side modern izakaya Located in Hakuba’s wooded Wadano Village just a few hundred meters from the Sakka Slopes, Tori Co. is a modern izakaya that specializes in yakitori— Japanese-style skewered and grilled chicken. Tori Co. is a family-style, slope side restaurant that combines the highest level of service with the best quality food and drinks in a fun and relaxed environment.

28

LIVE UP FLAVOR

白 馬 の モ ダ ン 居 酒 屋

BOOK NOW!

ITALIAN

Blizzard Authentic wood-fired pizza Blizzard offers an authentic taste of Italy with wood-fired pizzas, timeless pasta creations, and a selection of traditional Italian favorites. Hailing from the sunsoaked landscapes of Southern Italy, Chef Simone infuses each dish with a genuine taste of his homeland, ensuring a dining experience to remember.

But it’s not just the food that sets Blizzard apart. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for families and friends

to gather and enjoy a delicious meal or an après drink— it‘s directly across from the Happo Gondola after all.

In the evening, Blizzard comes alive with music and energy. DJs take the stage on the second floor, performing well into the early morning, while the first floor remains open for easygoing conversations over drinks. Blizzard is a must stop for nightlife enthusiasts.

白 馬 で 本 格 的 な 薪 窯 ピ ザ

OPENING HOURS

11:30am – late FIND US

4257 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301 +81 261 85 0017 BOOK NOW!

LIVE UP HAKUBA

29

AMERICAN | WESTERN

The Rabbit Hole Brunch, burgers, and beers The Rabbit Hole stands out in Hakuba as a go-to destination for superb barista-made coffees and hearty western breakfasts.

Yet the delicious food does not end there. The Rabbit Hole is also wellknown for serving the best burgers in town— just what you need after a day on the slopes.

ラ ゲ ビ レ ッ ン ト デ ホ で ー 汗 ル を で ひ 腹 と ご か し き ら し え た ら

Situated only 150 meters from the Sakka Lifts, The Rabbit Hole is a convenient spot to unwind after a day at Happo-One resort. Enjoy great food, cold beer, a game of pool, and fantastic live music at one of Hakuba‘s popular après ski spots.

OPENING HOURS

7am – 10pm FIND US

4777 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301 +81 80 3495 8954

BOOK NOW!

30

LIVE UP FLAVOR

APRÈS SKI

Hakuba Après

OPENING HOURS

1pm – 8pm

Hakuba‘s first daily on-snow party

FIND US

4029 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301 +81 50 4560 1085

BOOK NOW!

Après Ski is one of the most popular winter activities in the European Alps, second only to skiing and snowboarding.

It is intertwined with the ski culture of the Alps as much as onsen baths are to that of Japan. Hakuba Après is excited to bring the first real après ski vibe to Japan and it is sure to be a perfect ending to a great day on the mountain.

In partnership with Veuve Clicquot, Hakuba Après will turn the slope into a dance floor and serve you the finest drinks available on Hakuba‘s fresh powder. Live music and DJs will perform daily until you are truly ready for a hot onsen bath.

白 馬 初 、 唯 ー の 雪 上 の ス キ ー ア フ タ ー パ ー テ ィ ー

LIVE UP HAKUBA

31

Good Fellas

白 馬 の 野 生 動 物 に 出 会 う

猿

Snow Monkeys The onsen soakers No visit to Nagano would be complete without encountering the famous snow monkeys, also known as Japanese macaques, in Jigokudani Monkey Park. Located in the nearby town of Yamanouchi, the park is an enchanting setting where visitors can witness these charismatic primates enjoying the warm waters of natural hot springs. The sight of snow monkeys leisurely soaking in hot spring pools, especially during the winter months, is a truly unforgettable experience.

32

LIVE UP VALLEY

Hakuba not only offers stunning alpine scenery and world-class ski resorts but also provides a mecca for wildlife enthusiasts.

From adorable snow monkeys to elusive bear populations and graceful Japanese serows, Hakuba abounds with wild activity.

Let‘s delve into the fascinating world of Hakuba‘s natural inhabitants and learn how to respectfully observe and coexist with them during your stay.

!

Observing snow monkeys requires visitors to maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching or feeding them.

Adhering to park guidelines and refraining from disturbing their natural behavior ensures both the safety of visitors and the well-being of these endearing creatures.

!

Asian black bears hibernate in the winter months, building dens in hollow trees, under large rocks, or by burrowing underground. While encounters with bears are especially rare in winter, it is crucial to be aware of their presence and understand how to behave responsibly in bear territory.

熊

Bear Populations Quiet as they sleep Hakuba and its surrounding areas are home to a considerable population of Asian black bears, some of which can weigh up to 120 kg, making them the largest wild animals on the island of

Honshu. These magnificent creatures are adept climbers who prefer a diet of nuts, berries, and grasses, but are also known to hunt boars, deer, and serrows when the chance arises.

If you do come across a bear, it is essential to remain calm and avoid sudden movements.

Give the bear ample space and never attempt to approach or feed it. Backing away slowly while keeping a watchful eye on the bear allows for a safe retreat. Understanding and respecting bear behavior is crucial for ensuring both the safety of humans and the well-being of these powerful creatures.

!

Observing Japanese serows can be a thrilling experience, and it is not uncommon to see them on the ski slopes.

However, it is important to respect their natural habitat and maintain a safe distance.

These animals are cautious by nature and may feel threatened by human presence.

Using binoculars allows for close-up views without causing disturbance. Remember that capturing photographs should never take precedence over an animal‘s well-being.

カ モ シ カ

Japanese Serows The graceful alpine dwellers Hakuba also boasts a healthy population of Japanese serows, a unique and once endangered mammal native to Japan.

These agile and sturdy creatures are

known for their impressive climbing abilities and distinctive appearance, with their long, shaggy fur and large curved horns.

LIVE UP HAKUBA

33

! 狐

The Hakuba Fox A Japanese native Japanese folklore characterizes foxes as tricksters endowed with supernatural shapeshifting abilities. In the villages of Hakuba, it’s not unusual to encounter these animals in their natural form, a phenomenon that becomes more pronounced during the harsh winter

months when mountain hunting becomes increasingly challenging. It’s during this time that foxes are occasionally observed casually meandering near convenience stores and chalets, foraging for discarded food waste.

In case you encounter a fox in Hakuba, please do not feed them. Although they may appear accustomed to human presence, it is important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated as such. If you are staying at a chalet, please make sure the garbage lids are closed and locked, so that no animal can rummage through it. You would be surprised how skillful and creative they are.

HENRY BRYANT Henry Bryant is a local artist and multi-media professional who owns Late2wenty.com. Henry enjoys snowboarding and making videos.

RESPECTFUL ENCOUNTERS OBSERVE FROM A DISTANCE

AVOID TOUCHING OR

FOLLOW DESIGNATED

Keep a safe distance from wild animals and use binoculars for closer views.

FEEDING ANIMALS

PATHS AND TRAILS

Keep a respectful distance and never try to touch or feed wild animals, as they may become dependent on human interaction or behave unpredictably.

Stick to designated paths and trails to avoid disturbing natural habitats and minimize the potential for encounters.

STAY QUIET AND MINIMIZE NOISE

Excessive noise can disrupt their natural behavior and cause unnecessary stress.

EDUCATE YOURSELF DISPOSE OF WASTE RESPONSIBLY

Properly dispose of all waste, including food scraps, to prevent attracting wildlife.

34

In general, when encountering any wildlife in Hakuba, it is essential to prioritize their well-being and minimize human impact on their natural habitats. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

LIVE UP VALLEY

Learn about the local wildlife and their behaviors before embarking on any adventures to ensure a respectful and responsible encounter.

ELEVATE YOUR ADVENTURE:

PREMIUM SKI AND SNOWBOARD RENTALS AWAIT!

ECHOLAND 0261-72-2858 3020-118 Hokujo, Hakuba, Nagano 8am – 6pm

WADANO 0261-72-2857 600m from the Sakka Slope 8am – 5pm

HAPPO LOUNGE 0261-75-1110 Right Across from the Happo Gondola 8am – 5pm

IWATAKE 0261-72-2479 Next to the Iwatake Gondola 8am – 5pm

TSUGAIKE Village Tsugaike, 2F 8am – 5pm INQUIRY EMAIL ADDRESS info@spicy.co.jp

Hakuba‘s most wanted

SNOWBOARD BURTON POW WRENCH ¥99,000

All available at Rhythm retail locations in Hakuba or online at rhythmjapan.com

SOUVENIR APPAREL KIDS MOUNTAIN MERCH CUP NOODLE KIDS HOOD HAKUBA ¥5,000

SKI BOOT ATOMIC HAWX PRIME XTD 120GW ¥103,290

HANDWEAR OYUKI X SMITH SHAKA GORE-TEX MITT ¥16,900

HANDWEAR OYUKI LOGO GORE-TEX MITT ¥11,500 GOGGLE OYUKI X SMITH SQUAD MAG GOOGLES ¥45,100

GOGGLE OAKLEY FALL LINE M GOOGLES ¥31,570

36

LIVE UP SPORT

SKI BLACK CROWS MIRUS COR SKIS 2024 ¥132,000

APRE BOOTS VANS STANDARD SNOW MTE BOOT ¥19,800

Après.

All. Day. ー フ ェ ス テ ィ バ ル

38

ー で 開 催 さ れ る ス ノ

白 馬 の パ ノ ラ マ ビ ュ

LIVE UP CULTURE

Après Ski is the European time honored tradition of what happens after skiing. Après is not a tangible thing, it‘s not a destination, or an act. It’s a way of life. Snow Machine embodies this way of life with four days of world class music set on mountain stages throughout the Hakuba Valley.

お 気 に 入 り の D J の ビ ー ト に 合 わ せ て 雪 山 で 踊 ろ う

THE PARTY OF THE YEAR

Dance atop mountains to the beats of your favorite DJs followed by skiing on some of the best mountains in all of Asia. In the evening, enjoy the electrifying atmosphere at the village main arena where 5,000 people will gather to celebrate the music of DJ legends Diplo, Nina Kraviz, Shinichi Ozawa, and more.

Snow Machine is not merely a ski holiday or a music festival, but an all-encompassing, mind blowing fusion of both.

Snow Machine will be held from February 26 to March 2nd and daily tickets start at ¥12,000 while four day tickets are available from ¥30,000.

Tickets include access to all on snow après performances in addition to the village main arena and can be booked on snow-machine.com. Lift tickets are not included in the price of admission.

If you can‘t wait for the beat to drop, get a taste of the party on the Snow Machine Spotify Playlist!

LIVE UP HAKUBA

39

"WE STRIVE TO PROVIDE OUR GUESTS WITH AN EXPERIENCE THAT GOES BEYOND SIMPLY SKIING ON FRESH POWDER. OUR APPROACH INVOLVES CREATING PERSONALIZED ITINERARIES THAT ALIGN WITH EACH INDIVIDUAL‘S SKILL LEVEL, PREFERENCES, AND DESIRED LEVEL OF ADVENTURE." NADINE, HAKUBA SKI CONCIERGE

POW POW ナ デ ィ ー ン と ー 緒 に パ ウ ダ ー ス キ ー を 学 ぼ う

If you are a good groomer, but haven’t done any powder skiing in your life, here are some valuable tips from Hakuba local Nadine Robb.

She is the founder and Head Instructor of Hakuba Ski Concierge, a boutique service for ski and snowboard instruction and tour guiding.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SKIS Being on con-

dition appropriate equipment is key, and marketing makes it easy to get wrong. With a large amount of new snow, wider skis will provide a bigger base of support, making it easier to keep the tips above the snow and making sinking less likely. By contrast, sprinklings of fresh snow become skier-compacted quickly. In these conditions we recommend an All-Mountain Ski, as they are easier to maneuver.

ADJUST STANCE While a hip width stance on groomers serves us well, it is advantageous to bring our feet closer together while learning to ski powder.

This will decrease the likelihood of our outside ski getting away from us during our turn.

GET EVEN Deep snow can grab our skis and make it feel as if we can‘t steer them. The trick to overcoming this is to

40

LIVE UP SPORT

weight our skis evenly. Piste skiing has taught us to power more over the outside ski, but doing this in powder can cause one ski to sink while the other continues forward; you can imagine the outcome. Adding little jumps and hops into our skiing is a great way to even out the weight distribution.

GET BOUNCY These hops and jumps are a great lead into another valuable skill— flexion and extension. Imagine your legs are springs or pistons that absorb and harness energy as you flex the three lower joints— ankles, knees & hips. From this compressed position you can project that energy into an extension, enabling you to spring ‘up and out’ of the deep snow. Throw in some rhythm and timing and you’ll be bouncing your way down the mountain in no time.

ABANDON PRIDE Learning to powder ski

is not the time to showcase your most polished self. It is important that we embrace the inevitability of a spill or two. Otherwise it is easy to become frustrated or overwhelmed. Also, the body is more likely to sustain injury when rigid or tense. In short, relax and have fun!

TAKE A LESSON The most effective way

to learn to powder ski is by taking a lesson from a professional. Instructors know the common pitfalls, how to preempt and overcome them. Taking a lesson is not only the fastest, surest and safest way to master the powder— but in all likelihood, it‘ll be the most fun too.

Book your lesson on hakubaskiconcierge.com

TRAVELING LIGHT? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. 身軽な旅を、 リズムレンタルで

cafe

essentials

Retail

rentals

boot fitting

HAKUBGAE BRID

COME VISIT US IN ONE OF OUR THREE HAKUBA LOCATIONS

リズム白馬３店舗にてお待ちしております LAWSON

# E P I CMO M EN TSSHARED # R I DEI NO URBOOTS

MEET AT THE MOUNTAIN Private Ski & Snowboard Lessons Maximize every minute on the slopes with our highly skilled, experienced, fun and friendly instructors.

Lessons start and finish at Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park.

SIGNATURE PRIVATE LESSONS & GUIDING EXPERIENCES Our Signature Team is committed not only to delivering unparalleled lessons and tours, but the very best of Hakuba on any given day.

hakubaskiconcierge.com hakubaskiconcierge info@hakubaskiconcierge.com

Move better.

Explore the full suite of Hyperice technology, including Hypervolt percussion massage, Normatec dynamic air compression, and Venom heated wearables.

hypericejp.com

Hakuba Mirai is driven by a sense of commitment to the local community to deliver top-tier projects that enrich the lives of both temporary and long-term residents, encouraging the sustainable growth of the Hakuba Valley.

FOR ENQUIRIES, CALL 0261-75-5511.