The ski & snowboard season in Hakuba typically spans December through to March. With between 10-13 metres of annual snow fall you can depend on fresh powder snow at least once during a week stay during this period. The snowfall may be dramatic but the temperature in Hakuba remains surprisingly mild, hovering at -7 to -14 at the peak and -7 to -2. at the bottom. This fairly narrow range preserves the powder for longer, enabling many skiers to enjoy the mountain until early May.

November: Can be hit and miss in terms of ski and boarding conditions. We generally advise against booking November trips too far in advance- better to keep an eye on our blog and updates to check on snow conditions and take it from there. Only a few seasons ago Hakuba had  unprecedented deep powder conditions by the third week in November. Quiet runs at off-peak prices, skiers heaven.

December: Most  resorts start to open during the first week of December with the season truly underway from around the third week December. Book the peak season weeks of Christmas and New Year early or be disappointed. Hakuba is a great festive choice for a refreshing take on traditional Christmas. You can ski Happo One for free on Christmas day- provided you dress up in a  Santa costume.

January: The busiest month on the slopes. Anyone who has skied other international resorts will be pleasantly surprised- at the lack of lift queues- perhaps this is Japanese efficiency at it’s best! Take in a slice of unique Japanese culture and visit the Nozawa Fire Festival on January 15th.

February: With powder days guaranteed, this is a fail-safe time to visit. Chinese New Years holiday takes place in the first week of February in 2010 and Hakuba is buzzing with activity.

March: The insiders’ month of choice. Great conditions on the mountain, a relaxed atmosphere, plus a reduction in rates make March a special time to enjoy the mountain.

April: Backcountry or heliskiing enthusiasts will be in their element in April.  Access to some of the higher peaks of Hakuba opens up in April, hence it is a popular destination for back country fans.

May: The majority of resorts close officially after the second week of May.  The snowy peaks, however, will remain until mid-Summer. May marks the beginning of our Summer season, with the snow beginning to melt down into the crystal clear lakes in the valley…perfect for us to enjoy watersports throughout the hotter months.

May-November: Hakuba is an outdoor adventure sports hub, offering you the chance to enjoy hiking, paragliding, kayaking, mountain biking, canyoning and all manner of other outdoor sports. Or you can simply enjoy the tranquility of the Alpine Summer. For details on Summer activities in Hakuba.