Transport Options to Hakuba Resorts

For official information, visit Matsumoto City Official Website.

For the most up-to-date details, check Matsumoto Castle Official Website before you go.

Driving is another excellent option for groups or families. The trip takes roughly 60 to 80 minutes via Route 147 and 148. Rental cars are available near the main station in Matsumoto. Ensure your vehicle has winter tires and 4WD for safety on icy roads. Parking at most Hakuba resorts is free on weekdays but may fill up early.

You can also consider taking a bus for your journey. While direct buses are rare, some guided winter tours starting from Matsumoto station include transport. These tours often provide a hassle-free way to reach specific resorts. Always check the latest 2026 schedules at the Visit Matsumoto information center before you depart.

Top Hakuba Resorts for Day Trippers

Happo-One is the most famous resort in the Hakuba Valley. It offers steep runs and hosted events during the 1998 Winter Olympics. The resort is easily accessible via a short shuttle from Hakuba Station. Advanced skiers will love the long vertical drops and challenging terrain. Expect to pay around 7,000 to 8,000 yen for a full-day lift pass.

Hakuba Goryu and Hakuba47 are connected resorts that share one lift pass. They offer a great mix of beginner slopes and technical terrain parks. The Escal Plaza at Goryu stays open late and has excellent facilities. You will find plenty of restaurants and shops for a midday break. These resorts are ideal for a winter day trips from Matsumoto because of their variety.

Tsugaike Kogen is the best choice for beginners and families. It features exceptionally wide slopes with gentle inclines for learning. The resort also offers unique activities like snowshoeing and fat biking. You can rent high-quality gear directly at the base of the mountain. Most shops offer 2026 discounts for online bookings made in advance.

Equipment Rental and Lesson Tips

You do not need to bring your own gear from home. Hakuba has many rental shops that cater to international visitors. Shops like Rhythm Japan or Central Snowsports offer the latest 2026 models. A full set of skis, boots, and poles costs about 5,000 yen per day. Many shops allow you to swap gear if conditions change during the day.

Booking lessons is highly recommended for first-time skiers or snowboarders. Several schools in Hakuba provide lessons in English with certified instructors. It is best to book these at least two weeks in advance. Group lessons are more affordable, while private lessons offer faster progress. Check the Japan National Tourism Organization website for reputable school listings.

Remember to pack appropriate clothing for high-altitude mountain weather. Temperatures in Hakuba often drop well below freezing during January and February. Wear moisture-wicking base layers and a waterproof outer shell. Most rental shops also provide jackets and pants for an extra fee. Don't forget high-quality goggles to protect your eyes from snow glare.

Sample 2026 Winter Day Itinerary

Start your day early by catching the 7:15 AM train from Matsumoto. This allows you to reach Hakuba Station before 9:00 AM. Hop on a free resort shuttle bus immediately upon arrival. You will be on the slopes by 9:30 AM for fresh tracks. Enjoy four hours of skiing before stopping for a hot bowl of ramen.

In the afternoon, continue exploring the mountain or try a new run. Most resorts start closing their upper lifts around 3:30 PM. Use the late afternoon to visit a local onsen near the base. Soaking in natural hot springs is the perfect way to soothe tired muscles. Many public baths in Hakuba cost between 600 and 1,000 yen.

Return to Matsumoto by train or car in the early evening. You can finish your day by visiting the Matsumoto Castle Ice Sculpture Festival 2026. The city looks beautiful at night with festive lights and displays. Grab dinner at a local izakaya to celebrate your successful mountain adventure. This schedule ensures you see the best of both the city and the Alps.