Hakuba Connect summer 2016

Summer 2016 Issue 12

3www.hakubaconnect.com

HAKUBA

Contact Information1606-4 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 Can-yoning 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.

Discover heavenly nights in the evening by enjoying the amazing 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.

Editor Steve Williams Design Michael GroveAdvertising Mikiyo Williams

MTB

4 www.hakubaconnect.com

surrounding pristine lakes and rivers to enjoy an abun-dance of aquatic adventures. So whether you are a fan of adrenaline seeking or just want to relax then you are in the right spot. Take a canoe or rafting picnic trip on the beau-tiful Lake Aokiko. For whitewater adventures, head to the rapids on Himekawa Princess River or for the ultimate in adventure enjoy canyoning on the alpine fed streams.

Hakuba is definitely not your average Japanese mountain village with the region hosting everything from gourmet caf treats to luxurious culinary delights with stunning scenery to complement all your dining adventures. In fact the valley is quickly becoming an impressive dining destina-tion with trends showing that visitors come for the outdoor activity and return again for the fabulous food. Where else could you enjoy Mexican, Chinese, French, Italian Korean, American and of course locally grown Japanese cuisine. It might be time to consider adding a fourth meal to your day!

After a full day of adventure in the Hakuba Valley then just say aaahh... as you immerse your body into one of the numerous natural hotsprings onsens that can be found throughout the resort. It is one of the must experiences you have to try, especially after a day enjoying one or more of the adventures that Hakuba has to offer.

However you choose to fill your visit to the Hakuba Valley, we hope by reading this magazine that you now have even more knowledge to help you create holiday memories and regale friends and family with your adventure stories.

Say Hakuba to most people around the world and the name conjures picturesque snowy images of deep powder, endless ski runs and of course the 1998 Winter Olympics. The Hakuba Valley is consistently ranked as one of the top winter destinations in Asia and it is not surpris-ing that the valley is on the radar for an increasing annual number of international visitors. But there is nothing like the Hakuba Valley in the green season, basically when the snow has melted from the ski runs and Mother Nature re-turns the valley to the deepest shade of green.

Hakuba is a great area for hiking and walking, whether youre interested in a casual stroll or looking to really chal-lenge yourself with a mountainous vertical hiking adven-ture. Easy walks suitable for the whole family are found in the valley but the hikes with some of the most breathtaking views in Japan are the ones accessed by using the exten-sive range of summer lifts.

For those who love the two wheeled method of getting around then Hakuba is bike friendly has some relaxing long or short valley trails. Dont worry if it gets too hot, Hakuba has plenty of cafes, ice cream stalls and cool water to relax those tired muscles. Some of the singletrack trails tend to be more challenging for which mountain bikes are the way to go. Hook up with one of the cycling tour guides to find the best trails.

The Hakuba Valley is an exciting outdoor playground and when the summer heat gets too hot, many head for the

Hakuba Valley Hakuba Valley

Hakuba Valley

Hakuba Valley9,000

Hakuba Valley

Hakuba Valley1

WELCOME TO THE HAKUBA VALLEY 2016 Green Season 2016 SPRING SUMMER AUTUMN


surrounding pristine lakes and rivers to enjoy an abun-dance of aquatic adventures. So whether you are a fan of adrenaline seeking or just want to relax then you are in the right spot. Take a canoe or rafting picnic trip on the beau-tiful Lake Aokiko. For whitewater adventures, head to the rapids on Himekawa Princess River or for the ultimate in adventure enjoy canyoning on the alpine fed streams.

Hakuba is definitely not your average Japanese mountain village with the region hosting everything from gourmet caf treats to luxurious culinary delights with stunning scenery to complement all your dining adventures. In fact the valley is quickly becoming an impressive dining destina-tion with trends showing that visitors come for the outdoor activity and return again for the fabulous food. Where else could you enjoy Mexican, Chinese, French, Italian Korean, American and of course locally grown Japanese cuisine. It might be time to consider adding a fourth meal to your day!

After a full day of adventure in the Hakuba Valley then just say aaahh... as you immerse your body into one of the numerous natural hotsprings onsens that can be found throughout the resort. It is one of the must experiences you have to try, especially after a day enjoying one or more of the adventures that Hakuba has to offer.

However you choose to fill your visit to the Hakuba Valley, we hope by reading this magazine that you now have even more knowledge to help you create holiday memories and regale friends and family with your adventure stories.

Say Hakuba to most people around the world and the name conjures picturesque snowy images of deep powder, endless ski runs and of course the 1998 Winter Olympics. The Hakuba Valley is consistently ranked as one of the top winter destinations in Asia and it is not surpris-ing that the valley is on the radar for an increasing annual number of international visitors. But there is nothing like the Hakuba Valley in the green season, basically when the snow has melted from the ski runs and Mother Nature re-turns the valley to the deepest shade of green.

Hakuba is a great area for hiking and walking, whether youre interested in a casual stroll or looking to really chal-lenge yourself with a mountainous vertical hiking adven-ture. Easy walks suitable for the whole family are found in the valley but the hikes with some of the most breathtaking views in Japan are the ones accessed by using the exten-sive range of summer lifts.

For those who love the two wheeled method of getting around then Hakuba is bike friendly has some relaxing long or short valley trails. Dont worry if it gets too hot, Hakuba has plenty of cafes, ice cream stalls and cool water to relax those tired muscles. Some of the singletrack trails tend to be more challenging for which mountain bikes are the way to go. Hook up with one of the cycling tour guides to find the best trails.

The Hakuba Valley is an exciting outdoor playground and when the summer heat gets too hot, many head for the

Hakuba Valley Hakuba Valley

Hakuba Valley

Hakuba Valley9,000

Hakuba Valley

Hakuba Valley1

WELCOME TO THE HAKUBA VALLEY 2016 Green Season 2016 SPRING SUMMER AUTUMN

KITAONE KOGENTake a ride on Kitaone Chairlift .....a highland journey Kitaone Kogen Highland elevation 1,200m of natural beauty. Viewpoint overlooks magnifi cent alpine scenery

GRAND OPEN from 25th June to 30th Oct

BEST EATS & ONSENS

Ride a single chair li to 1,200m to Hakuba Happo Kitaone Kogen Highland. From snow actives in spring, viewing beautiful owers in summer to spectacular fall colors in the autumn,

Kitaone is one place in Hakuba where you can enjoy them all in the natural clear alpine air.1

360

1,200m16251030

www.happo-one.jp/green/

Happo Onsen Stamp Collection: 3 stamps for Onsen Wet Tissue, 5 stamps for Happo Onsen Towel(Kitaonenoyu/Obinatanoyu/Satonoyu/Happonoyu/Mimizukunoyu)

Please

yield seats to others.

FREE

for Everone Foot Onsen!

* Times subject to change without notice


ShoppingIf youre looking for the right gear, apparel, or accessories, Hakuba has it. But it isnt just selection that youre getting The Valleys outdoor lifestyle shops off er a special type of mountain expertise. From the knowledgeable and ex-perienced staff who live and breathe the mountains, to the range of high performance and specialty items - the focus in the shops is to provide you with a shopping experience that you wont fi nd in the urban jungle..

ParaglidingAll fl ight schools have strict safety standards to meet and equipment must be checked and main-tained regularly. It takes many, many hours of fl y-ing to qualify as a tandem pilot so you can rest assured that you will be in highly qualifi ed hands.

All AboardJust about every kid loves steam trains and it is no secret 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 miniature steam train on the longest mini track in Japan. The train meanders for a full kilometer through a beautiful forest park.Afterwards enjoy the sights of a bullet train travelling through the country-side and cities in the model railway house. There is a caf where you can relax with a beverage while the children enjoy themselves on the playground to help them let off steam.

SL1000mchoo-choo 211m


HotaruOne of the most amazing night tours you will experience in Japan - a canoe tour to see Japanese hotaru. From the base at spring fed Lake Aokiko, load into a Voyageur Ca-noe and with a guide paddle through the natural habitat of the glowing fi refl ies. By canoe you can get right under the branches where the fi refl ies as they literally light up the night over your heads and around the canoe. If you are here in the peak summer months, a tour to see fi refl ies in Japan is defi nitely a must do! From mid-July till the end of August

Trail RunningThe Hakuba Valley is a runners paradise. Whether you are just looking for fresh air, maintaining a train-ing plan or ready to race there are a variety of trails for all levels from the paved to mountain singletrack for trail and wild runners. An exciting event is held in September when the annual Hakuba International Trail Run hits the town. Book early for entries as it sells out fast.

Hakuba Valley

Ex-AdventureWith our busy schedules we sometimes forget how important it is to let loose and have some fun. If that sounds like you then head over to Iwatake Ski Area and join Ex Adventure and live a little. Ex Adventure is an ecologically friendly tourist attraction, which of-fers a variety of exhilarating outdoor adventures. The initiative is to provide a place for families, friends, and colleagues to share some laughs, rejuvenate them-selves, and enjoy the magical wonders of nature to-gether.

EXEX


Cayoning & Shower ClimbingA not so gentle but extremely refreshing summer activ-ity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides.

Shower walking is a much gentler version of canyoning that all the family can enjoy providing that you are over fi ve years old!

5OK

Hot Air BallooningDuring your fl ight you will get a spectacular birds eye view of the valley below as well as the Hakuba Ski Jump. Book your balloon fl ights with Hakuba Lion Adventure. Flights take off and last for about fi ve minutes from across from the ski jump stadium. Beware cancelations can occur when the weather is not co-operating. Time 06:00-07:00 Lion Adventure 0261-72-5061

m OK! 0261-72-506106:0007:004/3011/6

7/168/31 )

RaftingThe rivers fl ow 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.

1


Opening hours16:0023:00(For Reservation)

www.hakuba-h.tokyuhotels.co.jpTel: 0261-72-3001

Legs & Reflexology 45min

Legs 30minHalf body 45min

Full body 90minFull body 60min indulging an aromatherapy massage

Relax in the complimentary natural hotspring before

Aromatherapy TreatmentHAKUBA TOKYU HOTEL

\8,500

\5,800\8,500

\15,500\11,500

Private Visitor: Mon - Sat11:00am - 3:00pm

Price 1,300yen/ 1 hourMin 2 people. Children 900yen


WHAT'S HAPPENINGMAY

3-4-5 MAY Salt Road Festival As soon as the winter snow has melted join the crowds for a great three day festival of walking along the ancient Salt Road.

JUNE 6

SEPTEMBER 9

26th JUNE Tsugaike CycleOver 900 riders battle it out to be claimed King of the Mountains. 17km hill climb that takes the pros under one hour, other mere mortals a bit longer.

625m 1825m 7.3% 10.0%

12th JUNE Hakuba Cycle FestaNow in its second year the Hakuba Cycle Festa is a cycle at your own pace taking in the resorts best attractions. A i d s ta t i o n s a n d c h e c k points along the courses to keep you fully refreshed and energized. Can you do the full 90km course?

90km!

13th AUGUSTHakuba FestivalPo p o n d ow n to G re e n Sports Park for the annual Hakuba Festival. Featuring food stalls, and the largest firework display of the year.

14th AUGUSTHappo FestivalDuring Obon time head over to Happo Parking #2 for a fun night of fireworks & food.

15th AUGUSTThe 14th Yosakoi FestivalThe Yosakoi Festival held in the front of Hakuba train station is a modern rendition of traditional Japanese style dancing.

14

27-28th AUGUSTFIS Summer Ski JumpThe worlds best ski jumpers will once again descend on Hakuba Ski Jump for two days of Big Juuuumps!

W

27-28th AUGUSTBMW Motorrad DaysThe big bikes come into town for the weekend at Hakuba 47. Enjoy watching displays and a variety of bike riding skills. Demo bikes are available to try out.

BMW BMW MOTORRAD BBQ Hakuba47

OCTOBER 10

11th SEPTEMBERHakuba Int'l Trail RunAn off road running race th rough the rough and scenic alpine setting. Races for all levels form 50km to an 7km family run.

50km, 35km, 21km,7km

1st- 2nd OCTOBERMini Train FestivalAs the leaves turn golden hop up to Epoch Train Park for a weekend of mini train adventure.

10 1

AUGUST 8


So much fun waiting for you in

We can also help to create your tailor-made day tours such as yoga tour, sushi tour, yukata dressing and zazen (seated meditation) etc.

From Tsugaike Gondola Station, you can take the gondola and then ropeway of the Tsugaike Panorama Way all the way up to the entrance of the Tsugaike Kogen Nature Park, 1,900 meters above sea level. At the top, you are greeted by fresh and pleasantly cool mountain air. While walking along the planked walkways, you can enjoy the spacious wetlands, the vegetation, and the lovely alpine plants.

DAY TRIP TO HAPPO-IKE POND PARADISE ON EARTH


15 June 15 October 2016

TAILOR-MADE DAY TOURSTSUGAIKE NATURE PARK

8:20am 9:30am Gather at Hakuba Sanroku Tours

11:40am 12:30pm Arrive at Happo-Ike Pond

11:40 12:30 Happo-ike Pond bento lunch at Happo Pond Free time

13:30pm 14:30pm Climbing down

16:00pm 17:00pm Arrive at Hakuba Sanroku Tours

PRIVATE TOUR FREE & EASY

From 2 up to 10pax with s tour guide

Explore & enjoy yourself without a tour guide

17,000yen 8,000yen Price Includes

Climbing clothes and shoe rentalHappo-ike Bento lunch boxRound way cable car ticketsFree so ice cream

Happo-ike Pond is noninated for CNNs Japans 31 most beautiful places Award.

www.hakuba1.comHAKUBA SANROKU TOURS HAKUBA VALLEY

Opening Hours: Everyday 9am 6pm6329-1 Hokujyo Hakuba-mura Kitaazumi-gun Nagano-kenT: +(81)261-72-6900 F: +(81)261-72-6922 E: [email protected] http://www.hakuba1.com/english/ Book Your Trip :

CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR PREMIER HOLIDAY! +81-261-72-6900 [email protected]


So much fun waiting for you in

We can also help to create your tailor-made day tours such as yoga tour, sushi tour, yukata dressing and zazen (seated meditation) etc.

From Tsugaike Gondola Station, you can take the gondola and then ropeway of the Tsugaike Panorama Way all the way up to the entrance of the Tsugaike Kogen Nature Park, 1,900 meters above sea level. At the top, you are greeted by fresh and pleasantly cool mountain air. While walking along the planked walkways, you can enjoy the spacious wetlands, the vegetation, and the lovely alpine plants.



15 June 15 October 2016

TAILOR-MADE DAY TOURSTSUGAIKE NATURE PARK

8:20am 9:30am Gather at Hakuba Sanroku Tours

11:40am 12:30pm Arrive at Happo-Ike Pond

11:40 12:30 Happo-ike Pond bento lunch at Happo Pond Free time

13:30pm 14:30pm Climbing down

16:00pm 17:00pm Arrive at Hakuba Sanroku Tours

PRIVATE TOUR FREE & EASY

From 2 up to 10pax with s tour guide

Explore & enjoy yourself without a tour guide

17,000yen 8,000yen Price Includes

Climbing clothes and shoe rentalHappo-ike Bento lunch boxRound way cable car ticketsFree so ice cream

Happo-ike Pond is noninated for CNNs Japans 31 most beautiful places Award.

www.hakuba1.comHAKUBA SANROKU TOURS HAKUBA VALLEY

Opening Hours: Everyday 9am 6pm6329-1 Hokujyo Hakuba-mura Kitaazumi-gun Nagano-kenT: +(81)261-72-6900 F: +(81)261-72-6922 E: [email protected] http://www.hakuba1.com/english/ Book Your Trip :

CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR PREMIER HOLIDAY! +81-261-72-6900 [email protected]

www.hakubaconnect.com18


It's thirty degrees on a hot summers day and Mr. Ohta is stuck outside in a heavy long sleeved jacket with an awkwardly large mesh hood over his face blowing smoke over wooden boxes. The smoke is stop swarms of bees from attacking. This is not how most of us would like to spend a hot day.

Mr. Ohta first started into beekeeping 16 years ago. WHY? The bees are practically his pets. They live in the woods in Misorano with over 15,000 per box and during peak summer over a million are buzzing around. The bees are honey bees.

The honey-making process starts in the spring: After a winter under the snow huddled up in the hives, the bees go into full-blown production mode when the weather warms up, gathering nectar from nearby flowering plants. They bring the nectar back to the hive so other bees can convert it into honey. Mr. Ohta removes the honey daily and in the safety of his kitchen pours it into jars.

Family and friends swear that the honey is so much sweeter that the varieties that you can buy in the local supermarkets. (A lot of honey lands on this editors breakfast cereal every morning and ice cream in the evening!)

The honey is on sale at Ohta Pharmacy, near to the main Hakuba Train Station, where the Mr. Ohta helps with the family business. (Mon- Sat 9:00-17:00)

30 16 15,000 40,000 100 20 2

( 9:00~17:00) 0261-72-5593

TO BEE OR NOT TO BEE

Hakuba Happo-oneFrom the top of Happo-one the favorite walk of many is to Hap-po-oike Pond. The Hakuba peaks refl ected in the still waters of the pond make it a photographers dream location. Its about 4 to 5 hours to make the round trip. Pop into one of the local convenience stores on the way to the Happo Gondola station to load up on picnic items for when you get to the pond. The hike can get a little tough at times so we recommend hiking boots and all weather jacket in case the weather turns for the worse. Also at the Kitaone Highland which is accessed by the Kita-one Chairlift there is a 60min hiking course with some beautiful views of the Hakuba Three Peaks.

60

Tsugaike KogenWith many inter looped walks to choose from, inlcuding just a few hundred meters to over 6km Tsugaike Nature park is one of the best places to escape the summer heat. The park is ac-cessed by Tsugaike Gondola followed by Hakubas only rope-way (cable car). The path around the nature park is on elevated boards so you dont really need to wear hiking boots.In the warm summer months there are an abundant of alpine fl ora. If you are here in early fall then you can fi nd some of the best autumnal colors in the Hakuba Valley.

Hakuba GoryuFrom the top of the gondola at Hakuba Goryu you can either access hiking trails to the peaks, including the hard six to eight hour journey to the top of Mt. Goryu or you can take in the val-leys best alpine rock garden showcasing Japanese, Himalayan and European fl ora. The 360 Panorama restaurant is open with a large decking to take in the spectacular views.

200 360

Hakuba 47With the lifts not going as high as some of the others Hakuba 47s can claim to have more things going on around both the base as well as top of the gondola. At the top there is an ad-venture course trail for the kids as well as grass sledding, fl ower garden and MTBing. At the base there is a dedicated BBQ area, climbing wall and the river to cool down in.

& OKBBQ

Hakuba IwatakeMake sure you fi nd the Natural Power Spot on this 90 minute forest walk around the peak of Iwatake Snowfi eld. If you are here in the summer months then expect to fi nd the snow gone to be replaced with thousands of colorful lilies and other wild fl owers on the slopes. For those with pets, Hakuba Iwatake is pet friendly with dogs allowed in the gondola and a dedicated dog run behind the Sky Arc Caf at the top of the hill.

Nothing beats the sensation of a warm summer breeze on your face and the weight of a trusty back pack on your back as your hiking boots lead the way up and down the trails, ranging from alpine hikes to natural ponds. If you have the time frame then there is a bounty of trails to be explored.For a truly top of the world walking experience then enjoy one of the gondola rides at the numerous ski resorts.

Whether in search of an epic adventure of simple there to breathe in the astonishing vistas these are the places to be.

HAKUBA, WE HAVE LIFT OFF


Hakubas Valley Trail is a gentle path that passes along rivers, neighborhoods, ancient shrines and spectacular for-ests. This is an excellent choice for those looking to get a tour of Hakuba while enjoying the outdoors. 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 doesnt always account for the ups and downs.

The Three LakesAt the southern end of the valley in neighboring Omachi, you will fi nd the three lakes of Lake Aokiko, Lake Nakatsuna 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 tra c usually coming the other way. The course is about 40km long.

km 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 un-der one hour, but realistically give yourself at least two or more!

148 7%, 10,

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.

1170m MTB

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 sup-ported and well maintained by the Hakuba village. Its a long ride up the long forest road but thankfully it is shaded 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 descents are on singletrack and fl ow very nicely back down the valley.

A, B, C, D

GuidingYou can experience a guided MTB or cycling tour of what the Hakuba Valley has to o 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. All types of bikes can be rented at Spicys and Sanroku Tours. Detailed maps of the trails and local terrain can be picked up at local tourist information centers.

, MTB 0261-72-5150

MTB 0261-72-6900 0261-72-2858

Freewheeling Fun

Lift Accessed MTBing Trails

HAKUBA IWATAKE 6-8km in length downhill course with 523m of vertical. One ride 1,200yenTwo rides 3,000yenAll day ticket 3,500yenCheck Hakuba Iwatake for Gondola opening schedules.

HAKUBA 47A variety of courses from the top of Hakuba 47 to the base area.One ride 850yenThree hours ticket 3,200yenAll day ticket 3,800 yenCheck Hakuba 47 for opening schedules.

MTB(

68km523m1 1,2003 3,0001 3,500

Hakuba 471 85033,2001 3,800


Canyoning A not so gentle but extremely refreshing summer activi-ty is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides.

Shower WalkingShower walking is a much gentler version of canyoning that all the family can enjoy providing that you are over five years old!

5OK

River KayakingTry the two day challenge on the lower part of the Kurobe River. There a few light rapids but mainly the river flows just perfect to spend a day in a kayak.

Hydro SpeedMount up, hang on, get wet! This is one of the most fun things to try on the river.

FishingThe Valley has so much water that you could fish anywhere in one of the rivers or lakes. For a easy catch, head over Ni-re Ike Pond in Happo-one. You can eat what you catch too!

Hakuba47

Canoe & Rafting PicnicEnjoy a water activity that all the family can partake in, on the calmer rivers and lakes. Be prepared for a fun day out and possibly getting a little wet.

OK

RaftingThe rivers flow furiously as they are fed from the melt waters run-ning off the mountains high above the village. There are various options available, from half day to full day adrenaline rushes.

1



While many destinations claim to offer a variety of diversions for families, few can really compare with the wide range of adventure activities on offer in Hakuba.What can a typical day in Hakuba offer your clan?Well for starters in the summer the Hakuba mountains feature hiking and sightseeing in alpine meadows bursting with wild flowers. The bigger kids will enjoy the challenge of hiking on some of the more rugged trails, just make sure that they dont get too far ahead!But the towering mountains are believe it or not only the tip of the Hakuba recreation iceberg.How about climbing high in the trees at the ever popular Ex-Adventure park in front of the Iwatake Snowfield. This is one adventure that the kids will want to try again and again.

Just about every kid loves steam trains and it is no secret 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 miniature steam train on the longest mini track in Japan. The train mean-ders for a full kilometer through a beautiful forest park.Afterwards enjoy the sights of a bullet train travelling through the countryside and cities in the model railway house.There is a caf where you can relax with a beverage while the children enjoy themselves on the playground to help them let off steam.

Another favorite is either shower climbing for the little kids or canyoning for the older ones. Imagine walking through alpine few rivers staying warm in a wet suit, sliding down natural chutes into rock pools below. This is fun with a capital F

Some of the other adventure activities also involve water which is more than welcome in the heat of sum-mer. The smiles on the kids as they approach another rapid on of the many rafting trips available will be as big as the mountains. If the kids are little too young for the rapids, then not too worry, there is an option of a rafting picnic on the calm lake. Canoeing and kayaking are also activities that can be enjoyed on the pristine Lake Aokiko. Exploring and discovering hidden bays followed by a refreshing swim is an adventure to brag about when they finally go back to school after the summer months.

And lets not forget about some of the other outdoor adventures available in the resort, such as mountain biking and climbing, are just a few activities that the whole family can enjoy together.

Of course not every activity has to happen together. While the kids are at a bike camp learning to ride down a mountain, Dad can be found trying his luck at fly fishing on Nire ike pond while Mom luxuriates at one of Hakubas aromatherapy spas. There is something for everyone in Hakuba

When you add the range of accommodations available from campsites, hotels and alpine chalets, its easy to see how Hakuba makes family vacations less about whether youre there yet and more about having al-ready arrived at the perfect family destination.


!?

EX-

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!!?

OK !

Top 5Devour lobsters in an alfresco dining setting at the Lobster Shack

The Lobster Shack

Sip espresso while enjoying organic delicacies at Roots Caf.Roots Cafe

Save room for ice cold beer and summer snacks at The Beach Bar. The Beach Bar

Indulge in a romantic dinner at the French inspired Chamonix restaurant in the Hakuba Tokyu Hotel

Enjoy a rice ball from one of the convenience stores and sit back and watch the world go by!Hakuba Valley

GRAB A BITEIt doesnt have to be fancy to be tasty. From a ordable izakaya style pubs to high-end three

course French dinners and everything in between, food options abound in the Hakuba Valley.

Hakuba Valley


Hakuba Connect summer 2016

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