Was my first trip to Japan as a whole and I'm glad I chose to visit Nagano/Hakuba for snowboarding.
The slopes were well taken care of and freshly groomed daily. Runs were smooth when the resort opened every morning.
Getting here was easy, travel time wasn't too bad only about 2.5 hours from Tokyo. Left Tokyo in the morning at about 8.00am and was checked-in and snowboarding by 12.30pm.
Hakuba town in general was very tourist friendly, maps and brochures everywhere to help.
Happo One is huge, couldn't finish exploring the entire mountain by the third day. The mountain does really offer something for everyone however I do think that day 1 beginners should avoid Happo One as Sakka isn't really the best place to begin learning how to ski/snowboard.
Happo One is in my opinion better geared towards intermediate riders as there are all kinds of terrain for you to play with. Steep/Narrow/Off piste/Tree riding/Deep powder/Moguls.. you name it, Happo One has it. Don't forget the 8km run from the top
Having snowboard withdrawal symptoms now, really wished I was still at the mountain.
Date visited:
From 02 February, 2015 To 06 February, 2015
Snow condition on visit:
Great snow conditions
Things I liked:
Getting there from Tokyo, Bus Information Center that calls your accommodation to pick you up, Cheaper ski passes from your accommodation, Good food that is available without breaking the bank, Not too expensive, the Lawson store down the road from the bus information center
Things I didn't like:
You have to make reservations for dinners in advance especially if it's a popular place, not too beginner friendly
