Introducing recommended courses, weather forecasts, live cameras, and course maps for Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort.
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What is Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture) like?
The quality and quantity of dry powder is outstanding even in the Hakuba area
Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort is a powder land of 100% natural snow that spreads out at the foot of Mount Hakuba Norikura, at the northern tip of the Northern Alps. Located in the inland part of HAKUBA VALLEY, and due to its high altitude, it is famous for the large amounts of dry powder that fall
The beautiful backcountry, with its broad-leaved beech forest, can be accessed from the slopes, attracting hardcore powder snow fans from not only Japan but also overseas
The slopes are roughly divided into the Wakaguri Slope and Satomi Slope areas. There are 14 unique courses, including a 2,000-meter long course that drops directly below the summit and a downhill course surrounded by conifers. There is a wide variety of courses that can be enjoyed by everyone, from families to experts. Another major attraction is the beautiful panoramic view of the Hakuba mountain range that can be enjoyed from the top of the slopes
At the foot of the slopes, Hakuba Alps Hotel and Norikuraso offer day trips to enjoy the famous hot springs, which are 100% sourced directly from Norikura Onsen
Topics for the '25-26 season
Heli-skiing operations this season start mid-January!
At Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort, heli-skiing, which began on March 21st last year, is scheduled to take place this season from mid-January to early March 2026, which is the peak season.
This is a special experience where you can ski down a majestic snowfield for about 2km from an altitude of 2,110m. The ski route is selected by the guide depending on the snow quality and conditions of the day. There are also plans available that allow you to enjoy a discount if you reserve multiple runs in advance. This is a luxurious activity where you can enjoy tree runs through the forest with the spectacular winter scenery of Hakuba below, and the finest powder snow that the area is proud of.
Recommended courses at Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort
・Sky View Slope
Maximum gradient: 38 degrees, average gradient: 25 degrees / Distance: 500m / Slope orientation: South
Located at the top of the slope, it offers the best views, snow quality, and face. With a maximum gradient of 38 degrees, an average of 25 degrees, and a dynamic width of 250m, it is one of Hakuba Norikura's famous steep slopes. When it snows, you can enjoy deep powder overhead, making it a paradise for powder lovers
・Expert course
Maximum gradient: 35 degrees, average gradient: 25 degrees / Distance: 700m / Slope orientation: East
This slope is also legendary, with a maximum gradient of 35 degrees. The deep powder during snowfall is a treat only for advanced skiers. A sign at the entrance will inform you whether the slope is open or not
・Snake course
Maximum gradient: 30 degrees, average gradient: 25 degrees / Distance: 700m / Slope orientation: East
A steep, ungroomed slope with a backcountry feel that runs along the No. 2 Pair Lift. Perfect for powder snowfall
- Course level, percentage of ungroomed, groomed and moguls (%)
Recommended information from ski resorts
Recommended Gourmet
Pizza Toast @Petit Hotel Baku
Located on the slopes of Satomi Chuo, Petit Hotel Baku is known for its delicious food, and during lunchtime it transforms into a small restaurant. The thick-sliced pizza toast and cinnamon toast they serve are fluffy and filling
Recommended hot springs
Wakaguri Onsen Norikuraso Ski Resort is located here, and the brown water is a bicarbonate spring with excellent medicinal properties. Day-trip bathing is also available at both Hakuba Alps Hotel and Norikuraso.