In A Country Rich In Culture And Steeped In Ancient Tradition,lies A Winter Wonderland Perfect For A

Japan is home to temples, cherry blossoms, Asahi ... and some incredible snow. Deep in the heart of the Japanese Alps, located in the Nagano Prefecture, lies a winter escape to rival many.
By: Darcy Carter
 
Dec. 23, 2009 - PRLog -- Japan is home to temples, cherry blossoms, Asahi ... and some incredible snow.

Deep in the heart of the Japanese Alps, located in the Nagano Prefecture, lies a winter escape to rival many. Here is a group of villages known around the world as Japan’s skiing Mecca.

10 incredible ski resorts providing access to over 200 different runs, nestle amongst the rugged mountain peaks overlooking the beautiful village of Hakuba below.

With an annual snowfall average of over 11 meters, and ski season that runs from December through to late April each year, Hakuba is a must-visit for any snow enthusiast.  

(Hakuba Village played host to the 1998 Winter Olympic Games, which tells you a little bit about what sort of terrain to expect.)  

To the north you’ll find the smaller ski resorts of Iwatake, Tsugaike Norikura and Cortina.  

Sun Alpina reigns at the southern end of the valley, and incorporates three different ski areas: Hakuba 47, Goryu-Toomi and Happo-One (The Olympic ski resort). Happo-One is located in the heart of Hakuba.  

Happo-One – pronounced happo – oh-neh - is known as Hakuba’s premiere snow resort. With reports of some of the highest snowfalls and longest verticals in all of Japan, it’s become popular with snow-seekers worldwide. You’ll find a diverse range of terrain for both skiers and snowboarders alike. With 3,515 feet of vertical for riders to explore - including a terrain park for the freestyle junkies – Happo-One is a must.

Don’t expect large crowds and long lines for the slopes either. While the word is out about this fantastic snow resort, it’s yet to be over run by Westerners. Those who can manage to get themselves out of bed at a decent hour will be greeted with open runs and good powder cover up until early afternoon.  

If you’re looking for a quieter area, check out the snow resorts of Iwatake and Tsugaike. A lesson from world-class guides will have you exploring long, cruising trails and non-stop, uninterrupted riding in no time. Both snow resorts are well suited to the beginner and intermediate level. These are relatively quiet ski resorts, meaning no large crowds to deal with as you work out how to stop while hurtling down the slopes.  

Tsugaike is also home to Hakuba’s premier terrain park.  

Once your legs can take no more, it’s time to relax, and there’s plenty on offer to keep you occupied during your stay.

After the 1998 Olympics, Hakuba became a premiere winter destination and by Japanese standards, has some of the best après-ski entertainment around. Most hotels provide an option for visitors in the form of restaurants and lounge bars. Over 20 different hotels throughout the village means plenty of options for off-slope enjoyment.  

Also popular amongst visitors are the traditional ‘Izakya’, Japan’s version of tapas bars. Food is served to accompany your drinks, with meals substantial enough to satisfy even the most voracious appetite. Non Jays is Hakuba’s largest Izakya establishment and the Okonomi-yaki Japanese pancakes are incredible!

Nightclubs – some traditional, others Western - are dotted throughout the hotels and village. For those looking to party on in to the early hours, Omoshiro Hasshinchi resort hotel is the place to be.  

The main strip of Echoland region is definitely worth a look as well. It is home to many bars and restaurants - all within walking distance of each other. There’s even a shuttle bus that runs straight from the main street to most resorts.  

Master Blaster is a fantastic reggae bar found in Echoland. They play some incredible tunes and have a great beer list as well. Don’t forget to leave some coin in the tip jar to help get these guys back to Jamaica!  

At the end of your big night, you’ll want to rest your head somewhere special and with 50+ accommodation options available in Hakuba, there’s a pillow somewhere with your name on it!

Visit http://www.freshpeaks.com today to book your next winter adventure.
End
Source:Darcy Carter
Email:***@freshpeaks.com
Tags:Ski Holiday, Skiing Holiday, Ski Resorts
Industry:Travel
Location:United States
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