With powder season in full swing, there’s no better time to plan a trip to Japan for a holiday filled with thrilling snowsports, relaxing evenings in the onsen, and indulgent meals of fresh snow crab. If you’ve already carved your way through Hokkaido’s famous slopes, it’s time to turn your sights to Hakuba.
Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba gained international renown as the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, cementing its status as one of Japan’s premier ski destinations. Conveniently located just a 5-hour drive from Tokyo, it offers world-class skiing alongside breathtaking alpine scenery.
To elevate your trip even further, here are some of the most luxurious chalets and retreats in Hakuba that you can book right now. With the snow season running through to the end of March, there’s still plenty of time to experience this winter wonderland in style.
One Happo Chalet
Image: One Happo
With its sleek, modern design, One Happo Chalet wouldn’t look out of place as a James Bond villain’s stylish lair. However, step inside, and you’ll find a warm and inviting space designed for relaxation and luxury. Spanning 5,381 square feet, this 5-bedroom chalet comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests, offering an opulent retreat after a day on the slopes.
Image: One Happo
Conveniently located just steps away from the Shirakaba Gondola at the Happo One Ski Resort, the chalet makes hitting the slopes effortless. A dedicated ski storage room ensures all your gear stays organised and ready for your next adventure.
For those who prefer to unwind off the slopes, One Happo Chalet has plenty to offer. Enjoy the luxury of an 8-person onsen, a sauna, a billiards table, a fully equipped gym, and even a private movie room—perfect for relaxing après ski or keeping non-skiers entertained.
Chalet Hachi
Image: Chalet Hachi
For families seeking a modern retreat with touches of Japanese elegance, Chalet Hachi is an excellent choice. This 2-story chalet is thoughtfully designed with large windows that flood the interiors with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming ambience throughout the day.
Image: Chalet Hachi
With 5 bedrooms and 2 maid’s rooms, Chalet Hachi is perfect for larger groups traveling with nannies or babysitters. A spacious, fully equipped kitchen ensures that preparing hearty meals for the family is a breeze, offering the comforts of home even on vacation.
Image: Chalet Hachi
Adding to its convenience, guests at Chalet Hachi have access to an 8-seater Lexus 4WD, allowing you to explore the stunning Hakuba Valley at your own pace without waiting for transportation services. It’s the ideal combination of style, functionality, and freedom for your winter getaway.
Amo 54
Image: Amo 54
Nestled in the cosy forests of Wadano is Amo 54. The alpine escape offers a spacious retreat spanning 3,767 square feet. Designed to comfortably host up to 12 guests, it’s an ideal choice for groups of 2-3 families. Kids will love the dedicated room with two sets of bunk beds, perfect for creating pillow forts and making lasting memories.
Image: Amo 54
The chalet’s second floor boasts sweeping views of the nearby Sakka Kitaone Quad Lifts at the Happo One ski resort, a visual reminder of how close you are to the action—just 150 meters from the slopes. Whether you’re an avid skier or simply enjoy the ambience, Amo 54 keeps you at the heart of Hakuba’s alpine charm.
Image: Amo 54
When it’s time to relax, the chalet offers plenty of entertainment options, including a ping pong table and foosball table, ensuring fun for everyone long after the skis are put away.
The Castle
Image: The Castle
What could feel more opulent than staying in a chalet aptly named The Castle? While it’s less medieval fortress and more contemporary luxury, this striking property delivers on its regal promise with an impressive blend of style and comfort.
Image: The Castle
Boasting 8 ensuite bedrooms, The Castle is perfect for hosting large groups, with the added convenience of a maid’s quarters for nannies or babysitters. Every corner of the property is thoughtfully designed to cater to both practicality and indulgence.
Image: The Castle
Key features include underfloor heating for cosy mornings, a heated parking garage to keep the cold at bay, and complimentary shuttle services to nearby ski resorts and supermarkets.
Soil
Image: Soil
Contrary to its name, the Soil chalet in Hakuba is a tranquil space that has nary a speck of soil. Located between the Happo One Ski Resort and Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park, it’s a perfect spot for a respite after spending hours frolicking in the snow.
Image: Soil
One of Soil’s standout features is its hinoki wood bathtub, perfect for soaking away the chill after a day on the slopes. The rich aroma of hinoki cypress will calm your mind and soothe away your cold, aching muscles. Those seeking deeper relaxation can pop into the outdoor sauna that offers a rejuvenating escape with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
Image: Soil
With 3 bedrooms, each furnished with 2 twin beds, the chalet is perfect for families or groups seeking a cosy yet spacious retreat. It’s just a one-minute walk to Hotel Oak Forest, where you can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant or a soak in the hot springs.
Hibiku
Image: Hibiku
Tucked away in a private forest in Misorano, Hibiku is a spacious luxury chalet designed to elevate your Hakuba experience. The 2,152sqft villa accommodates up to 12 guests in 5 bedrooms, offering an impeccable blend of nature and modern sophistication just a 10-minute walk from Echoland’s bustling dining scene.
Image: Hibiku
Large north-facing windows flood the living room with natural light while framing breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps. Inside, you’ll find custom furnishings, adjustable mood lighting, and a kitchen equipped with premium German and Japanese appliances for culinary enthusiasts to whip up a meal to refuel everyone’s energy.
Hibiku’s wellness features include a private hot spring bath, a Finnish sauna, and a spacious outdoor deck for unwinding after a day of snowsports. The chalet also provides practical amenities like a drying room, parking for 4 cars, and a private shuttle service to nearby ski resorts.
Powderhouse
Image: Powderhouse/The Hakuba Collection
The impressive Powderhouse chalet stands steadfastly in the middle of the serene Wadano Forest, a retreat designed for those who take their vacations very seriously.
Not only are there 6 bedrooms to accommodate large groups of up to 14 guests, there is also a movie room, a full-sized kitchen with stainless steel countertops, an onsen, and a games room to boot. If you book directly with The Hakuba Collection and are staying 5 nights or more, you’ll also get the keys to a 4WD van for the duration of your stay at Powderhouse.
Image: Powderhouse/The Hakuba Collection
If that’s not enough, you can also head out to the nearby Happo One Snow Resort by way of the Sakka Chairlift that’s just a short 200 metres away. Additional amenities include a ski drying room, laundry facilities, and a shuttle service to nearby restaurants, bars, and attractions.
The Happo
Image: The Happo
For smaller groups, staying in a chalet might feel unnecessarily large, especially if only one or two bedrooms are needed. This is where a luxury hotel like The Happo would come in handy to provide right-sized accommodation.
Image: The Happo
Having just gone through a refurbishment in 2022, the 30-room property is now one of the most modern hotels in the Hakuba area sporting an in-house onsen and a Finnish spa. Guests will also have access to their concierge, in-room dining, and having the convenience of winter gear shops at their doorstep.
Image: The Happo
There are 5 room types available, including a family room that has bunk beds and the spacious Happo Suite.
Best chalets & retreats to book in Hakuba
Hakuba’s blend of world-class skiing, serene alpine scenery, and luxurious accommodations makes it a must-visit destination for winter enthusiasts. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, the chalets and retreats in Hakuba offer something for everyone—from spacious homes with kid-friendly amenities to refined spaces with private onsens, saunas, and breathtaking views of the slopes.
Cover image: The Happo, Soil
Subscribe to be the first one to receive latest news, exclusive updates and member-only offers and promotions.
