Hakuba Connect Summer 2014

FATHER & SON HIKING ADVENTURE

STAY COOL THIS SUMMER

SAMPLE LOCAL FOOD

www.hakubaconnect.com 3

Welcome to Hakuba

Contact Information

1606-4 Hokujo, Hakuba, Nagano 399-9301, JapanEnglish Tel: 080-3126-0247Japanese Tel: 080-3422-9005Email: [email protected]

Published by Snow Connections

Hakuba Connect annual summer visitor guide is free when picked up at distribution points throughout the Hakuba valley. © Snow Connections. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.Individual advertisers are solely responsible for the content of advertising material which they submit to us, including ensur-ing that it complies with relevant legislation. We accept no re-sponsibility for the content of advertising material, including, without limitation, any error omission or inaccuracy therein.

The secret has long been out, Hakuba is not only a hav-en for snow sport lovers but also for adventure seekers who are looking for some thrill and excitement during

the warm summer months. If this is you, then you are in luck, as the Hakuba Valley is full of experiences for all ages and fi tness levels. The adrenaline junkies can participate in Cay-oning which is basically sliding down waterfalls, jumping off high cliff s into steep crystal pools. For two wheeled lovers, the Hakuba Valley is bike friendly with off road trails, full long day road trips or just cruising through the town

If exploring the trails is more your thing, take a hike on one of the many routes on the mountains and enjoy the spectacular vistas of forests and alpine ponds.

Adventure isn’t only limited to fast paced activities, the fi sher-men and women among you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Nire-ike or rent a boat and fi sh on one of the valleys three lakes.

Discover heavenly nights in the evening by enjoying the amaz-ing fi refl ies that attest to the freshwater than abounds here in the valley or just look up at the night sky and ponder why we are even here.

There are only a few destinations in Japan or probably in the whole of Asia that can deliver an epic playground for all sea-sons with top class amenities in such a picturesque setting.

We hope you discover adventure here on your trip to Hakuba.

See you on the trails.

Steve WilliamsEditor

Editor Steve Williams Design Michael GroveAdvertising Mikiyo Williams

It’s summertime in Hakuba and the possibilities are endless. Immerse yourself in all of the beau-ty, variety and adventure of what the Hakuba Valley has to off er.

Top 5ACTIVITIES IN THE

HAKUBA VALLEY

Top 5Relaxing

AC

TIVITIESA

CTI

VITI

ES

ONSEN/HOT SPRINGGetting naked with a bunch of total strangers is perhaps the most quintes-sentially Japanese thing to do in Hakuba. Many of the onsens have great views of the mountain peaks. Relax those tired muscles and contemplate tomorrow’s adventures.

MASSAGESoothe every part of your body and ease you aching muscles with a trip to the Tokyu Hotel, which specializes in massage and reflexology. Compli-mentary pass in the natural hot spring will make this relaxation top priority.

HOTARU/ FIREFLIESEnjoy the amazing night tour on Lake Aokiko. Jump into a voyager canoe and paddle through the natural habitat of the glowing fire flies. If you are here in the peak summer months, guided tours are available.

TRAINSMiniature steam railways as well as the resort view train makes Hakuba a perfect destination for both train buffs and those who want to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of all the adrenaline activities.

DININGThe village’s numerous restaurants have food for all tastes and budgets. Enjoy everything from great tasting local Japanese cuisine to the perfect burger. Mix this with a cold beverage and you have perfect end to a great day.

FOR RELAXATIONFOR ADVENTUREFOR FAMILIES

Exploring the high alpine with the summer gondolas and lifts, lesuirely days strolling around the village, enjoying the pristine lakes or rivers – with so much fun and adventure waiting for you this summer in the Hakuba valley, choosing what to do and fitting it all in can be hard.

Since we live here and having fun is what Hakuba is all about, we’ve put together these top five lists filled with activities and attrac-tions to help you choose what to do with your long sunny days and evenings in our moun-tain paradise.

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Top 5Adventure

Top 5Family Fun

RAFTINGThe rivers flow furiously as they are fed from the melt waters running off the mountains high above the village. There are various options available from half day to full day adrenaline rushes. This activity is guaranteed not to disappoint.

MTBINGThe popularity of MTBing is increasing year by year in Hakuba. Numerous courses around the hills including some lift accessed single track that will get your heart pumping. Guides and maps are available.

FOREST ADVENTURESwing through the trees on a circuit of zip lines, monkey bridges, ladders and ropes. You can travel through the forest without touching the ground safely strapped into a harness and attached to a safety line. Available at both Iwatake and Cortina ski areas.

TANDEM PARAGLIDINGThere are a number of take-off areas at the ski resorts where you can soar high above the valley floor strapped to an expereeiced pilot. Enjoy a birds eye view of the breath taking scenery below.

CANYONINGA not so gentle but extremely refresh-ing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides. Try shower climbing for the younger kids.

HIKINGBeautiful meadows, towering peaks. The best way to enjoy nature’s finery is don a pair of hiking boots and take a gondola ride up into the high alpine. There are many hikes from casual strolls to multi day treks.

BALLOONINGGet up early and soar in a hot air balloon above Hakuba. The balloons lift to 40 meters above the ground. The balloons park is in front of Hakuba Highland Hotel. See Lion Adventure more for details.

BANANA BOATMount Up, Hang On, Get Wet! This is one of the most fun things to do on Lake Kizakiko. You won’t be able to stop laughing!

CYCLINGHit the open road or just cruise around the town. Varied terrain, sign posted courses and quality bike rental, make Hakuba a perfect location for a two wheeled family adventure.

CANOEING/RAFTING PICNICEnjoy the water that all the family can partake in, on the calmer rivers and lakes of the Hakuba valley. Be prepared for a fun day out and possibly getting a little wet.

ACTIVITIES

ACTI

VITI

ES



WHAT'S HA

14th SeptemberHakuba International Trail RunOne of the most beautiful trail running races in Japan. A few climbs, a few descents, beautiful woods, numerous sweeping vistas, and almost all off -road. Comfortably Hakuba is an instant favorite amongst trail runners. Don’t miss out on this classic race!

8th JUNE Tsugaike Cycle ClimbTsugaike Hill Climb is a uniquely painful and challenging cycle

race. The ideal is simple – ride up a ski hill as fast as you can. It’s

just you, your bike and your fi ght against gravity. At the end of the

climb at the top of Tsugaike Ski Area, your legs will be scream-

ing with pain, your lungs at bursting point and you may feel light

headed due to less oxygen at this altitude. Yet, whatever your time,

there’s a great feeling of achievement for completing the hill. You

may not enjoy it, but something brings you back for more.

3th , 4th and 5th May Salt Road FestivalThe Salt Road is the ancient pathway that runs

through the Hakuba Valley on its way from the Sea of

Japan to the castle city of Matsumoto 120kms away.

The Salt Road Festival takes place three days during

Golden Week. A great cultural event.


HAPPENING

23th and 24th AugustSummer FIS Ski Jump One of the annual sporting fixtures in the Hakuba

calendar is, bizarrely, ski jumping. No need for snowy

slopes in August though, as the event is held on the

all season Olympic ski jump. Over 15 nationalities are

represented in the 2 day competition, with the event

being televised live on European sports channels. It is

a gathering of the best ski jumpers in the world and

an amazing spectacle is guaranteed!

13th , 14th and 15th August Hakuba's Summer FestivalsEvery year during the Obon holidays Hakuba comes alive with three

days of summer festivals. Kicking it off is the Happo Festival, followed

by The Yosakoi Matsuri which takes place in front of the Hakuba train

station with special dancing and music The various teams sport a wide

variety of brightly attired costumes trying to outdo each other as they

strut their stuff to the rhythm of the energetic music. A great evening

for locals, visitors and international guests! Three days of events culmi-

nates in the Hakuba Matsuri at Green Sports Park. Enjoy more dancing

and fi reworks.

30th and 31st AugustBMW MotorradAre you ready for a motorcycle event where you can not

only see the latest BMW Motorrad models at fi rst hand and

try them out for yourself but also have loads of fun with

like-minded enthusiasts? If so, look forward to two days of

superb entertainment at the BMW Motorrad. From 30th -

31st August 2014, Hakuba 47 Ski Area will once again be

transformed into the high-powered meeting place for all

BMW Motorrad fans and friends, offering so many high-

lights and activities that you’ll start by wondering where on

earth to start.

8 www.hakubaconnect.com

Every trail runner has unique reasons for starting. For many, it’s their love of nature and a sense of adventure that drives them away from the predictability of pave-ment running and onto the ever-changing terrain of

dirt. For others, the move to trail was simply a necessity. For me it was the necessity to get fi t and look good on the beach!

At fi rst, I was shocked at how much agility and balance I’d lost to age. The old saying, “Use it or lose it” was now being hurled at me, and it did not feel good to realize I had become complacent in what I asked of myself. To take my mind of the pains, I started to listen to music on the trails but I soon real-ized that I was missing the tranquility of the beautiful country-side. If I daydream while I’m navigating a mountain trail, I fall. It requires me to pay attention, but not to my noisy life. I have to listen to what’s happening around me, and that allows me to see the breathtaking beauty that surrounds us, whether I notice it or not, every day. Not only was the scenery a distrac-tion from the eff ort required to stay upright on a rocky trail, suddenly mileage and time didn’t matter as much. Maybe my favorite aspect of trail running is that it’s never the same, trail running keeps me guessing. I have a favorite trail in Minekata courses, the view from the top changes drastically depending on the season.

Hakuba is a relatively small village, and word soon got round that I was training for the annual trail running event that takes place every year in September. To be honest, I was perfectly content running for pleasure and I did not give much thought to running in a formal race. The idea of running through the woods with a group of people did not really excite me. Then I started reading jogging magazines and talking to my fellow running friends at work. I quickly learned that there is a lot of strategy that takes place during long distance trail running events.

I did my fi rst practice race through the woods at Wadano and up to the top of Iwatake with one of my co-workers who grad-uated to trail running after completing numerous marathons. Even though Iwatake doesn’t look that big when compared to the three peaks of Hakuba, it took a lot of energy to run/jog/walk to the top, 345 steps all the way. (Yes, I did count them all!)

I was still very apprehensive about giving the race a try in fear that a sub-par experience would defl ate any existing motiva-tion I might have for trail running. On the other hand, you have to try something before you can judge it so I fi gured what the heck, let’s do this thing! Just in case it was to be an awful ex-perience, I coxed my manager into joining the race as well so both of us could suff er the same misery…hehe.

On the morning of Sunday September 15, 2013 I stood at the starting line of the Hakuba International Trail Run. It was 9 AM, the weather was perfect though I was still apprehensive about this new endeavor. I was certainly not out to break any records

“Time to hit the trails

for Hakuba’s

fastest growing activitity

”

By Mikiyo Williams

or even come close to a top fi nisher mark. I was perfectly con-tent with enjoying the trail, experiencing something new and hopefully placing better than 50% of the competitors. When the bullhorn sounded, I was off and running.

As I ran past the Hakuba Ski Jump side-by-side with the oth-er competitors, I thought to myself, “Jeez, there are way too many people here. I have to spend more time watching out for people than enjoying nature. Maybe I just need to run a little faster to get ahead of the crowd?” Soon enough I was ahead of the masses and was plummeting downhill into the woods be-low. The trail was in excellent shape. The smell of late summer was all around and the crunching leaves and twigs under my feet provided for enough noise to block out the sounds of the runners behind and ahead of me leaving me with a feeling of isolation. On the winding trail I crossed many wooden bridges, climbed and descended some fairly minor hills.

Slowly I started passing people, but I never felt like I was push-ing myself. My mind started to wander, and I was soon thinking about all of my past training runs. The memories put me in a sort of trance like state, but every once and awhile I would think to myself, “Boy, this is so much easier than I thought.” Be-fore I knew it, I could see the fi nish line ahead. I felt like I only ran a mile and had lots of energy left so I decided to sprint the last half of a kilometer or so. I crossed the fi nish line 3hours 00minutes and 04 seconds after starting 20km ago.

As for my goals, I think I accomplished all of them. I tried some-thing new, enjoyed the trail and experience, and fi nished faster than 50% of the competitors (actually I placed 6th in my age group). I cannot wait to take part in next trail run. When I do, I will be sure to let you know and start providing you with extra tricks and tips as I learn this new activity.


" Hakuba international Trail Run "This will take place on 14th September 2014. Entry is open to anyone who is reasonable fit. Four course are available, Long Course (53km), Middle Course (30km) Short Course (20km), Family and Trial Course (7.5km). Entry begins in June and closes at the end of July or until all places have been filled – so register early.

www.hakubatrail.com

1. Pick a relatively fl at, short trail for your fi rst time. Pick-ing a steep, technical trail for your fi rst trail run can be frus-trating and dangerous if you aren’t accustomed to running on trails. I recommend running by one of Hakuba’s three main rivers.

2. Keep your eyes on the trail. This is harder than it sounds. The views in Hakuba can be quite breath taking and it can be very tempting to look around while running. However, the hazards can appear out of nowhere, causing a potentially nasty and embarrassing spill. If you want to enjoy the view, simply stop and take a look.

3. Look about one meter ahead. This allows you to see what’s coming before its too late, yet at the same time be able to react to what’s under your feet. Focusing on every branch and rock can be mentally exhausting, so allow your senses to take over. This takes practice and probably will be hard to do at fi rst – just be patient. If you’re running with a buddy, stay a little back. This will allow you to see what they have dodged. 4. Slow down. You won’t be able to run as fast on the trails. Typically expect to be one to two minutes slower per kilometer. Few people can run at break neck speeds on a trail, and even those who can have to slow down when running trails for the fi rst time. Trail running tends to be-come more about enjoying the process.

5. Walking is fi ne. Many trail runners will actually walk up the steeper uphill section and walk down the downhill sections of a trail (think of Iwatake here). Walking can save energy, is easier on your legs and allows you to get through your run in one piece. Power walking up a hill can actually be faster than running, and you won’t burn as much energy in the process.

6. Running uphill. When running uphill take shorter steps than normal, trying not to gain too much vertical height in any one step.

7. Running downhill. Lean forward, but not too far that you lose control. Leaning forward will minimize the braking eff ect of your legs and will allow you to run faster while using less energy.

8. Slow down if the surface is wet, slippery or rocky. This is especially true during a race when one or two sections can be muddy.

Here are some 　　　useful tips


By Nadine Wilding

It is water that we have to thank for our existence; it is the substance that sustains life. Not only is this planet and even our own bodies comprised mostly of water, but it makes up so much of what we do and love in life, with its immeasurable opportunities for experience, exploration and enjoyment!

Here in Japan, we are 1 in only 20 countries in the world where 100% of the population has access to improved sanitation and water sources. Needless to say, we are ex-tremely fortunate. Aside from keeping us alive and well, water has kept our forests green and luscious, kept our crops irrigated, our hot springs rejuvenating, and provid-ed us with a plethora of activities to be enjoyed. Japan has some of the cleanest lakes and waterways in the world, and Hakuba is no exception.

Spring fed lakes and rivers serve as the irrigation network for Hakuba`s produce. The purity of the water largely contributes towards the extremely palatable taste of the town`s well known rice and sake. The waterways of the Northern Alps also serve the Daio Wasabi farm in Azumi-no; as Japan`s largest Wasabi farm, it is known for it`s size, volume of produce and exceptional tasting Wasa-bi! Not only do we have our lush landscape and piquant produce, Hakuba`s waterways also enable an abundance of outdoor pursuits...

Starting deep underneath the lake bed, water bubbles up through the surface and feeds the turquoise waters of al-luring Lake Aokiko. Combined then, with snowmelt com-ing from the recently powdery peaks behind - the result is one of sublime serenity. Aokiko, one of Japan’s clean-est lake and also the headwaters for the Shinanogawa - Japan`s longest river, protects it`s purity by disallowing any motor boats on the lake. This means from Spring to Fall we are able to enjoy canoeing, kayaking, lake side picnics, swimming and fi shing; and as night time throws a blanket of black over the star-strewn sky, we can be-come quiet observers of one of nature`s most magical moments - watching the fi refl ies. One of the many tours off ered by Evergreen Outdoor Center and Lion Adven-ture is the `fi refl y canoe tour`, in which you can be taken into the heart of their habitat and dazzled by their de-lightful glow. They in themselves are a testament to Aoki-ko`s clean water, as these curious little creatures can only breed in the purest of places. By day or by night, Aokiko`s waters are alive with possibilities!

Starting once more from deep under the ground here in Hakuba, we fi nd the source of the `Princess River` - the Himekawa. Shrouded by tranquil trees that trap the cool air, the source trickles up, runs through the townsite and continues the 60km to the Sea of Japan. Along the way we can enjoy a stroke of Rafting or fi shing, before leaving Hakuba for the coast. Our other much appreciated river is the ‘Pine River’ – the Matsukawa, though this time we have to travel up into the mountains to fi nd its source. As

Water - A Sustenance of Life

Opposite Page: Empty Canoe on Lake AokikoAbove Top: Canyoning with Evergreen Outdooor CenterAbove Bottom: Enjoiyng Banana Boating with Lion Adventure on Lake Kizakiko

“The purity of the water largely contributes towards the extremely palatable taste of the town`s well known rice and sake. “


Rafting on The Hime River with Happo-one ski area in the background.

the water makes it`s way down Mount Shirouma, the snow-melt from winter’s bounty feeds into it and transforms it from a stream into a raging river. It continues its journey down the mountain and underneath Dai Sekkei, the mountain`s perma-nent snow fi eld, and by the time it reaches us in the village it is full of vibrant teals and turquoises - colors lent to it by the minerals brought down from the mountains. The banks of this beauty are an ideal place to cool off during summer`s sizzle, with its three peak backdrop and it`s soft, grassy sides – it’s banks are a great spot for those looking for an enjoyable mountain bike ride, a quiet location for yoga or just an after-noon of relaxation or a family BBQ!

High up in the alpine plateau of Tsugaike Natural Park, we fi nd burbling springs and the headwaters of the Kusukawa, the river that Evergreen Outdoor Center uses for canyoning tours. As the water snakes itself through the mountains, it funnels down into the steep walled Kamoshika Canyon - carving smooth swirls into the soft igneous rock. The result is a masterpiece of smoothly sculpted basalt, creating slides and waterfalls and so giving us the perfect place to enjoy a splash of canyoning. Once again, the mountain`s minerals present us with those picture perfect aquamarines, making it a place of awe as well as adrenaline.

Water is something that we can so easily take for granted, and sometimes omit to recognize or appreciate it`s myriad of pro-visions. From the quintessential day-to-day use in sustaining ourselves and the world around us, to enabling the sports, trav-el and experiences that enhance our lives, we are so wildly fortunate that we have found ourselves in a place with such an abundance of clean and beautiful water. Let`s strive to pre-serve and protect it for generations to come.

Japan's Premier Green Destination

Accommodations

Hakuba Sanroku ToursHakuba Iwatake Lily Garden

Tsugaike Kogen Nature Park

s

ACT NOW!

☎ 　

Rental Bikes Wear Rental

Happo Ike Pond

Hakuba Valley


FatherFather & SonSon Hiking AdventureHiking Adventure


A father and son hiking adventure to explore the three thousand meter Hakuba peaks was on the cards during the hot summer school holidays.

We decided to make it slightly more adventurous and instead of utilizing the well placed mountain huts, that cater for hikers in the high alpine, we thought that camping in our two-man tent under the stars would be far more exciting.Camping also meant carrying backpacks with said tent, sleep-ing bags, waterproof clothing, four full days of food, cooking equipment, fl ashlights and of course roll mats to protect us from the cold fl oor and any rocks under the tent. Practicing lifting the packs in comfort of home was easy enough, but we were a little unprepared for climbing!We chose the Happo-one ski area to Tsugaike Nature Park route, which given four days, would give us plenty of time to rest and recuperate everyday in the late afternoon sun.

Day 1Leaving the ski lifts at Happo-one it was a fairly easy climb with my son racing off like a mountain goat on the wide boards overtaking everyone in sight. I just plodded along noticing that my backpack was getting heavier and heavier with every step. Maybe I should have chosen the mountain huts instead of camping!

The fi rst rest stop was Happo-ike Pond at 2,060m. This is a great place to enjoy lunch and take in the majestic peaks in front of you. It is one of Hakuba’s favorite day hikes so it can get a little crowded. After lunching on onigiri (rice balls), the staple food of hikers in Japan, it was back on the trail to our goal of Karamatsu Mountain Hut and campsite at 2,620m.

Day 2We awoke before dawn to catch a glimpse of the sunrise, but unfortuntately we were shrouded in a thick mist and being rather chilly we decided to go back to sleep until the sun burnt of the clouds. After packing the tent away it was time to climb Karamatsu and follow the trail onwards to “Kaerazu-no-ken” or literally “The Point of no Return” Here the going is hard with lots of chains and old bridges to cross. It is not for the faint-hearted! That night we camped at Tengu which was our favor-ite campsite of the hike.

Day 3After a beautiful sunrise it was time to tackle the Hakuba Three Peaks. First was Mt Hakuba Yarigatake followed closely by Mt. Shakushi and then onto the highest peak in Hakuba, Mt. Shi-rouma at 2,932m. We pitched our tent that evening just below the summit and we were surprised with the number of people camping! Everyone was escaping the summer heat!

Day 4It was nearly all downhill from here, all the way to Tsugaike Nature Park with the highlight being the beautiful Hakuba Oike Pond. The scenery passed from high alpine to marshes to for-ests. Wearily at the bottom we soaked at legs in the free foot onsen while enjoing a delicious ice cream at the Tsugaike base area.My bed never felt better that night!

SW


The Furusato train journey can begin at any one station though we recommend commencing at either Naga-

no, Matsumoto or of course Hakuba. Within minutes of the train pulling away from the station you will be in open valleys with lush green forests giving way to towering mountains and pristine blue lakes refl ect-ing the amazing alpine images.

You view all this through large windows while you are nes-tled into your seat. Mounted digital cameras on the front of the train provide a drivers “eye view” on fl at screen moni-tors installed in the carriages.

If you are coming from Nagano or Matsumoto to Hakuba on the weekends, you will have the added treat of disem-barking from the train and enjoying a guided tour to the impressive Hotaka Shrine, followed by a cultural perfor-mance onboard the train. A good selection of refreshments are off ered throughout the trip.

The train runs every weekend and most other days during the summer. You can book at any manned JR train station including Hakuba. JR Rail pass holders can ride using their passes.

Just about every kid loves steam trains and it is no se-cret that most dads, including this editor, are also fans

of choo-choo trains. Us guys never really grow up anyway!

In Hakuba you can experience travelling behind a minia-ture steam train on the longest mini track in Japan. The train meanders for a full kilometer through a beautiful for-est park.

Afterwards enjoy the sights of a bullet train travelling through the countryside and cities in the model railway house.

There is a café where you can relax with a beverage while the children enjoy themselves on the playground to help them “let off steam”.

All Aboard


Freewheeling Fun

Hakuba’s Valley Trail is a gentle path that passes along rivers, neighborhoods, ancient shrines

and spectacular forests. This is an ex-cellent choice for those looking to get a tour of Hakuba while enjoying the out-doors. The entire signposted course is either paved or made of crushed gravel, and while there are few rolling hills, the trail is built for beginners. This is a must do bike route for families or those who do not have technical mountain bike skills. But please remember that there are some hills on the trail, so the distance on the map doesn’t always account for the ups and downs.

“Whether you like fat tires or skinny ones, the Hakuba Valley has plenty of opportunities for two wheeled adventures or even just a lazy ride around the streets. Hakuba is bike friendly, just rent a bike, grab a map and away you go!”


Minekata Trails Locals know them as the Minekata Trails but are sign posted as Kikori-no-mori Trails. There is a choice of three and all are supported and well maintained by the Hakuba village. It’s a long ride up the long forest road but thankfully it is shad-ed from the summer heat. Arriving at the top, give yourself a few minutes to look at the amazing views of the Northern Japanese Alps with the village far below.

From the top choose A, B or C or 1, 2 or 3 depending on who you ask. The de-scents are on singletrack and fl ow very nicely back down the valley.

Hakuba 47 Ski Resort Ride the gondola to the middle section of Hakuba 47. From here there is a chair lift to keep you going throughout the day. Enjoy fours trails from beginners to advanced. Bike rental is available at the base area.

The Three LakesAt the southern end of the valley in neighboring Omachi, you will fi nd the three lakes of Lake Aokiko, Lake Na-katsuna and Lake Kizakiko. The road out of Hakuba has a little climb that will get the heart rate up, but after that it is a sweet ride around the lakes. Be careful on the northern side of lake Aokiko, the road becomes narrow with some light traffi c usually coming the other way. The course is about 40km long.

Tsugaike Nature Park This is not for beginners. The route starts out at Hakuba-Oike Train Station on Route 148. It is a grueling 9 percent grade road climb and is popular for cycling die-hards. The route is 17km up and then a free wheeling 17km down. The pros can do it in under one hour, but realistically give yourself at least two or more!

GuidingYou can experience a guided MTB or cycling tour of what the Hakuba Valley has to off er. Guided rides are perfect for those who may be new to the sport or who are interested in getting the lay of the land from a local professional. Haku-ba Connect recommends Sweetriders www.sweetriders.com.

All types of bikes can be rented at Spicy’s and Sanroku Tours. Detailed maps of the trails and local ter-rain can be picked up at local tourist in-formation centers.

Where to Mountain Bike Where to Road Bike

Hire a Guide

Just follow the signs for a leisurely ride around the town.


1. Inspiring DestinationShowcasing a unique setting in the Japanese Northern Alps. A truly authentic backdrop which will challenge attendees to reach their full potential.

2. FacilitiesNo matter how large your group, there is a meeting space available. From beautiful hotel properties to state of the art Olympic Convention complex.

3. ActivitiesYear round there is an activity for every level of adventure – all of which can be customized to ensure clients have an out-standing unique experience. Rewarding experiences create re-warding meetings.

4. Open AirWhen you choose Hakuba for your meeting or conference, you will have the space and alpine mountain scenery that will provide a memorable experience.

5. Team BuildingDevelop creative problem solving and improve team commu-nications with fun and positive team building interactions.

6. AccessHakuba is only three and half hours from central Tokyo, but a world apart with such fabulous mountain scenery. Profes-sional and safe transportation companies can make it easier for meetings planners as well as attendees.

Inspiration needs to come from more than just the boardroom. Open your minds and interact with one another on a whole new level. Create lasting memories while you engage your team in mental, physical and creative challenges at their desired levels of adventure.


0261-72-3001

7. AccommodationFrom luxury hotel suites to private chalets, Hakuba has a range of hotels and private lodges to suit all budgets and tastes.

8. DiningAttendees can relish on fresh local fare from across Nagano. Give your group food that is as delicious as the mountain views. Rent out private rooms or entire restaurants.

9. Spouse ProgramsDon’t leave your loved ones at home. Hakuba off ers a wide variety of activities for spouses and guests of visiting attendees. Indulge in some luxurious aromatherapy, massages, yoga or take a stroll around the local art galleries.

10. Natural Hot SpringsLastly don’t forget the abundant natural hot springs through-out Hakuba. Let the minerals ease away both the mental and physical tiredness. Refresh and rejuvenate attendees.


ocal Food

& DrinkLLSOBA

The classic local food in Hakuba is soba, thin brown

noodles made of buckwheat, a crop grown locally.

Buckwheat has distinctive yellow or white flowers

and grows quickly, allowing two harvests a year

even in Hakuba where the fields spend much time

under snow.

There are few things that excite

us more than piling our plates

high with 'all you can eat' food.

The Tokyu Hotel Buffet is an all

new dining adventure that awaits

the hungry. Western & Japanese

dishes, including everyone’s

favorite, chocolate fondue! .

1st-30th Aug. Two sittings 17:30

& 19:30 Adult ￥5,940

Kids 6-12 ¥3,088 Kids 4-5 ￥1,544

If you love coffee then you won’t be

disappointed in Hakuba. Expect to find

many specialty shops serving great

coffee as well as gourmet snacks. Take

the time to relax from all the activities

on offer and kick back and enjoy the

atmosphere.

　Coffee Time

Hakuba satisfies all appetites with plenty of places to

eat, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Experience fresh food in

mountainside venues with amazing views and with price

ranges to suit every visitor.

HakuBURGER

Dinner Buffet

Hakuburger, Sh i rouma

Burger and Happo Burger

a r e j u s t a f e w o f t h e

names of the local burgers

available in Hakuba. With

no fast food chain shops

in Hakuba, you can be

g u a ra n t e e d t o g e t a n

original delicious tasting

burger every time.

Hakuba Nishiki SakeBrewed since 1906 in nearby Omachi, Hakuba Nishiki Sake is made from natural spring water that is found abundantly in the region. This is distilled with locally grown rice to produce one of the finest sakes in Japan.


e

In a recent development, Hakuba

has embraced an a l te r na t i ve

buckwheat dish, galettes. Galettes

are basically French-style pancakes

where the nutty flavor of buckwheat

adds a savory dimension compared

with normal crepes. Chefs at many

restaurants and hotels around the

town have developed their own

interpretations of galettes. Make

sure you pick up a leaflet from the

Tourism Commission and see which

one takes your fancy.

Galette(Crepe)

Sushi !!!

Nagano’s contribution to the

enjoyment of raw fish comes in

the production of wasabi, the

green radish that graces every

plate of sashimi and many forms

of sushi, though it can be omitted

on request. Most Japanese parents

do so for their children.

Sales Direct +81-(0)261-72-6133 +81-(0)80-1060-7070Property Listings www.hakuba-real-estate.comE-mail [email protected]

Hakuba Connect Summer 2014

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Transcript of Hakuba Connect Summer 2014