Known as one of Japan’s premier winter resorts, Hakuba Happo-One transforms into an outdoor lover’s paradise during the summer months. Visitors should expect breathtaking views, thrilling activities, and a chance to experience Japanese nature at its finest.
The hike to Happo Pond is one of the must-do activities at Happo-One. Perched at 2,060 meters, this alpine pond is renowned for its crystal-clear waters that mirror the surrounding peaks. Accessible by gondola and chairlift, the trail is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
There are also longer trekking routes which wind toward Mount Karamatsu and into the Hakuba Daisekkei, an expansive snow valley that lingers deep into summer.
Tandem paragliding flights with certified instructors launch from 1,400 meters next to the Happo-One Gondola Station.
Relax at Hakuba Mountain Beach above the Happo Gondola Station. The beach lounge features jacuzzi baths and saunas converted out of gondola cars, in addition to a menu of drinks and food.
PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO
Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort may now be the most popular summer attraction in the entire region. Remarkably, this resort sells more lift tickets in the green season than in winter. This unprecedented level of popularity would have been hard to imagine just a few short years ago. Below, we highlight a few reasons why Iwatake has become such a sought-after destination.
NEW GONDOLA The brand-new Iwatake Gondola opened last winter. Access to the high-altitude playground is now faster than ever before.
HAKUBA MOUNTAIN HARBOR & THE CITY BAKERY Iwatake’s most iconic spot is HAKUBA
MOUNTAIN HARBOR, a terrace located at 1,289 meters with unmatched views of the Northern Alps. It is one of the most Instagram-worthy locations around. Visitors can also enjoy fresh pastries, coffee, and light meals from THE CITY BAKERY, a popular café originally from New York.
MOUNTAIN BIKING AT IWATAKE MTB PARK Iwatake is also home to one of Japan’s best mountain biking parks, with trails for beginners and experienced riders alike. Visitors can rent bikes at the base and choose from various loop, where flowing trails through forests, fields, and technical descents await.
HIKING & GIANT SWING There are plenty of walking trails, including the Viewpoint Loop that offers 360-degree views of the Hakuba Valley. Do not miss the GIANT SWING for a unique opportunity to soar over the valley.
RELAXING IN NATURE Iwatake is also a great place to simply relax and take in the beauty of the Japanese Alps. Whether you’re lounging in a hammock, enjoying a picnic, or sipping on craft beer at a mountaintop bar, there are plenty of ways to unwind.
PET FRIENDLY AREAS AND ACTIVITIES Iwatake is a dog-friendly resort, a true paradise for pups and their owners. With wide-open spaces and thoughtful pet-friendly amenities, it is a place to make memories together. Capture the perfect photos at HAKUBA MOUNTAIN HARBOR, then treat your pup to a meal from the pet-friendly menu.
Let them run free in a spacious forest dog run or relax together at the Picnic Lounge. Whether playing, dining, or exploring, Iwatake is the ultimate getaway for you and your furry friend.
PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO
HAKUBA GORYU ALPINE BOTANICAL GARDEN Wander through the delicate scents of Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden, located 1,515 meters above sea level. Accessible via the gondola, the botanical sanctuary is home to over 300 species of alpine plants, including the rare Himalayan blue poppy. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the biodiversity of the Northern Alps of Japan.
GONDOLA RIDES & HIKING TRAILS For a relaxing experience, take the eight minute gondola ride to Alpe Daia and enjoy views of the Northern Alps. From here, take a short walk to Jizo Carin, a viewpoint with great vistas of Hakuba Valley’s sprawling landscape. More advanced hikers can continue along the Kotoomi Trail for another 90 minutes to reach Kotoomi Peak and enjoy a perfect view of “Kakusaretaki,” a glacier on Mt. Kashimayari.
RELAXATION & DINING After a day of adventure, take a break and unwind at Escal Plaza, the main hub of the resort. Grab a tasty meal at one of the restaurants, and then swing by the first floor and relax in the Ryuujin no Yu hot spring.
PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO
Hakuba 47 is the ultimate summer destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Families can bond in the sky, tackling the thrilling treetop obstacle course, featuring over 28 challenges like rope climbs and ziplines. Young adventurers will delight in a charming ride aboard a miniature train, bounce the day away on the bungee trampoline, scale the climbing wall, and splash at the wading pools.
Accessible trails are up for exploration from the gondola summit, and families with four-legged friends can even enjoy the dedicated dog summit run.
PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO
Tsugaike Kogen is an ideal respite for those looking to escape the summer heat. With its sprawling wetlands, lush forests, and alpine landscapes, Tsugaike Kogen is the perfect site for peaceful enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
TSUGAIKE NATURE PARK
The crown jewel of Tsugaike Kogen’s green season is its Nature Park, which spans 100 hectares and targets high altitude wetlands and a true summer alpine habitat. Situated at 1,900 meters, the park invites visitors to wander a boardwalk trail that winds through wildflower meadows, tranquil marshlands, and panoramic viewpoints.
Botanical enthusiasts flock here in mid-summer to witness the day lilies and the cotton grass, while autumn visitors are treated to a mosaic of red, orange, and gold foliage. It’s a peaceful, picturesque escape where nature takes center stage.
HAKUBA TSUGAIKE WOW! — ADVENTURE PARK FOR ALL AGES
Visitors can bounce on trampolines or challenge their balance by cycling along a single wire suspended 10 meters above the valley. Another highlight is the Tubby Jump—a giant slide where guests zoom down on inflatable donuts. The new high-flying Water Park offers refreshing fun for the whole family, with playful equipment floating right on the pond.
After you’re done, enjoy a meal at one of several Tsugaike restaurants. It is the perfect spot for action-packed family fun in the mountains.
HIKING AND GONDOLA RIDES
Tsugaike Kogen is also the starting point for one of Hakuba’s most challenging hikes, the trek to Mt. Hakuba Norikura and Mt. Hakuba. These trails provide great views of Hakuba’s scenery and are popular among advanced hikers. For a more relaxed experience, ride the Tsugaike Ropeway and enjoy panoramic views over the valley. It is a great way to take in the beauty of Tsugaike Nature Park from above.
RELAX YOUR FEET
New this season, guests can now enjoy a foot onsen at the base of Tsugaike Kogen. Soak your feet in warm, soothing water while enjoying a drink and the surrounding views.
PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO
• NATURE PARK
• ADVENTURE PARK
• MT. HAKUBA NORIKURA
• MT. HAKUBA
• FOOT ONSEN
