1. Hakuba's Premier Alpine Extravaganza
Happo One (or Happoone) is a huge ski resort a couple of miles from Hakuba which shot to fame in 1998 during the Nagano Olympics (which could more accurately be called the Hakuba Olympics). The slopes at Happo One hosted the downhill Alpine skiing, the giant slalom and combined slalom events, while the ski jumping took place next door. These days, the competitors are long gone, but the crowds keep coming to a beautifully maintained, professionally run resort which commands gorgeous views of the mountains beyond.
2. A Peak That Will A-Send You To Heaven
A few miles past Happo One, you can't miss Mount Shirouma, which stands 2,932 meters high and dominates the Hida Mountains. In the summer, the slopes are festooned with colorful Alpine flowers, making it an appealing place to hike, while the slopes are full of skiers and other Alpine enthusiasts when the snows arrive. One of the most popular climbs in Japan due to its relatively easy path and convenient time scale, Shirouma has camps and way stations along the ascent, so it's well worth considering a hike.
3. Cherry Blossoms, Fireflies, And Outdoor Recreation
Back down at ground level, or near enough, Lake Aoki is a beauty spot located about 8 miles south of the resort itself. Classed as one of the "Three Lakes of Nishina" and shaped roughly like a heart, Aoki is a water sports paradise in the summer, when you can kayak, sunbathe and, of course, swim in its placid waters - with the mountains forming a remarkable backdrop. On summer evenings, the lake becomes illuminated by fireflies, while winter brings colonies of migratory birds, and spring colors the lakeside with cherry blossom hues. It's a magical place to unwind in any season.
4. Thermal Springs In A Stunning Setting
Few onsens (thermal spring resorts) are as spectacularly situated as Yari, which is perched 2,100 meters above sea level. The springs here have been sculpted into a stunning pool with views across the valley, and resembles the kind of "infinity" pool found at upscale hotels. And, despite the cool climate of the high slopes, it's always warm and inviting. The only snag is that Yari is accessible only by foot. Visitors need to drive to Sarukura and hike around 5 hours to the onsen, but few people regret the decision to do so.
5. A Cute Olympic Retrospective
They don't make a massive deal out of the Nagano Olympics in Hakuba, but they do have this small but absorbing museum which captures some of the excitement of the event. Photo displays and memorabilia have a nostalgic flavor, but give a good idea of what hosting the Games meant to little Hakuba. The ski jump is nearby, and visitors can ascend to the summit, reliving the anticipation and nerves of 1998's contestants, albeit without the 45,000 spectators cheering them on.
