Hakuba Valley, Japan: 26 Jan – 2 Feb 2027

Hakuba
Powder
Week

This is not just a snowboard trip — it’s a week built around the full Japan winter experience. Japow, onsens, izakayas, nightlife and powder runs with an epic crew.

Hosted by Jonny Melon, who has visited Hakuba 10+ times and knows all the best spots on and off the mountain.

6 spots (4 spots left). Peak Japow season. Don’t miss it.

Dates
26 Jan – 2 Feb 2027
Duration
7 days · 7 nights
Group size
Max 6 riders
Secure your spot →
LocationHakuba Valley, Nagano
Lift pass6-day full valley
Stay7 nights + breakfast
TransportPrivate van incl.
GuideJonny Melon
Hakuba Valley and the Japanese Alps
Peak powderseason
The trip

A week deep in
Japanese powder

Japan’s powder is legendary and Hakuba Valley is a string of 10 resorts in the Japanese Alps, just 4 hours from Tokyo.

Hakuba sits in the path of Siberian storm systems that dump metres of the lightest, driest snow on earth. January and February is peak snow season — cold, consistent, and loaded with powder days.

This is a small-group trip built for intermediate to experienced riders who want to get the most out of it. Each day we’ll be exploring different mountains within Hakuba Valley, riding the best powder in the world together.

What better way to hit the slopes than with a bunch of like-minded people, making long lasting friendships, and having the time of our lives!

What’s included

Everything sorted.
You just show up.

🏠
7 nights accommodation
Cosy mountain lodge in Hakuba village. Full breakfast included every morning before we hit the slopes.
🏔
6-day Hakuba Valley lift pass
Full valley access across all 10 resorts. This pass will allow us to chase the best conditions throughout the trip.
🚐
Private van transportation
Private van for the whole group all week. A different resort every day — no buses, no taxis, no hassle.
🏂
Expert guiding — Jonny Melon
On the mountain with you every single day, every resort, every run. I know Hakuba Valley better than most — I’ll show you around properly.
🍜
Night tours & local knowledge
Best ramen, sushi, and après spots each evening. You won’t be left to figure it out — Hakuba has incredible food and nightlife.
📸
Photos & videos of the trip
I’ll be capturing content throughout the week — powder runs, group shots, the whole experience. Shared with everyone after the trip.
Not included
Flights to Japan Transport to Hakuba (bullet train + bus) All other meals & drinks (other than breakfast) Travel insurance (mandatory)

Gear rental — Don't have your own gear? No problem. There are a few local rental stores in Hakuba. I'll send you the full price list and booking details once confirmed. Gear is paid direct to the rental shop on arrival or pre-booked online.

The week

How it unfolds

Day 1
Tue
Arrive Hakuba — Jan 26
Everyone arrives independently — recommended to arrive in Japan the day before. Meet at Tokyo Station at 9:30–10am for the journey to Hakuba together. Check in, sort rental gear if needed, first group dinner.
Day 2
Wed
First day on snow — Jan 27
Activate passes, grab a coffee, warm up laps. First proper Japow experience.
Days 3–6
Thu–Sun
Peak riding — Jan 28–31
Private van, different resort every day. Happo-One, Cortina, Hakuba Goryu, Iwatake + more. Chasing snow, onsen, après, dinners — repeat.
Day 7
Mon
Last laps — Feb 1
Final day on the mountain. Make every run count. Last group dinner together.
Day 8
Tue
Checkout — Feb 2
Check out, say farewells, head back to Tokyo. Bus from Hakuba to Nagano, then bullet train from Nagano to Tokyo.
Snowboarders on the slopes
Getting there: Meet Jonny at Tokyo Station at 9:30–10am on Jan 26. Travel together to Hakuba (3.5 hours total) — bullet train Tokyo → Nagano, then bus to Hakuba village. A full step-by-step travel guide will be sent to everyone once confirmed.
The lodge in heavy snowfall
Where we stay

A cosy mountain lodge
in the heart of Hakuba

A warm, characterful Japanese mountain lodge in Hakuba village. Tatami-style rooms, timber decor, and an unmistakable feeling of being properly in Japan.

We’re just minutes from the slopes, and with our private van we’ll be hitting a different resort every day. Hakuba village is one of the best ski towns in the world — great food, great bars, great vibe!

🍳
Full breakfast included — every morning at the lodge before we head out. Vegan and vegetarian options available.
🛋
Shared communal lounge — big dining table, sofa, TV. Perfect for après hangouts.
🛁
Japanese onsen-style bathrooms — shared male/female bathrooms. Private onsen also available for a small fee.
🎿
Dry room & laundry — dedicated gear drying room and laundry facilities on site.
📶
Fast Wi-Fi and heating in all rooms.
☕
24/7 complimentary tea, coffee & water, fridge, slippers, towels, and bed linen.
Communal lounge with snow view
Private onsen bath
Room interior
Communal lounge with snow view
Room options & booking

Choose your room. Lock in your spot.

All-inclusive price per person in USD. Your 6-day lift pass, 7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, private van, and expert guiding are all covered. Secure your place with a $300 deposit or pay in full. Balance due by 26 September 2026.

Standard Double room
Twin share
Standard Double (19 m²)
2 people · separate beds · shared toilet
$2,300 / person
Deposit to secure$300
Balance of $2,000 due by 26 September 2026
Pay deposit — $300Pay in full — $2,300
Superior Double room
Twin share
Superior Double (23 m²)
2 people · separate beds · private toilet
$2,600 / person
Deposit to secure$300
Balance of $2,300 due by 26 September 2026
Pay deposit — $300Pay in full — $2,600
Booking for 2 people? Email me and I'll arrange a joint booking. Interested in a solo room? Let me know and I can arrange alternative options.
FAQ
Everything you need to know
Before you book
Where does the trip start and end?
The trip starts at Tokyo Station where Jonny will meet you, and ends in Hakuba. From Tokyo Station we travel together on the Shinkansen to Nagano, then bus to Hakuba, roughly 3.5 hours total. On checkout day (Feb 2) you make your own way back to Tokyo or onwards. A free drop-off to Hakuba bus or train station is included.
What airport should I fly into?
Most travellers fly into Tokyo Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND). Both connect easily to Tokyo Station by train.
Do I need to have been to Japan before?
Not at all. We do strongly recommend arriving at least the day before the trip starts. Whether that's one night or a few days to explore Tokyo first, Jonny has plenty of recommendations for things to see, do, and eat. Just ask after booking.
Can I book as a couple or with a friend?
Yes. Email [email protected] and Jonny will arrange a joint booking. Room options include twin share with separate beds and a couple's room with a king bed on request.
What room types are available?
Two twin share options: Standard Double (19m2, separate beds, shared toilet) and Superior Double (23m2, separate beds, private toilet). A couple's room with a king bed is also available on request. Get in touch with Jonny for availability.
What's included in the lift pass?
Your 6-day Hakuba Valley lift pass covers all 10 resorts in the valley. Valid over any 6 days within an 11-day window from your first ski day, giving us flexibility to chase the best conditions.
What level do I need to be?
Intermediate to expert. You should be comfortable riding all terrain including off-piste and powder. This is not a beginner trip. We move as a group and spend most of our time in ungroomed snow. If you are unsure, get in touch with Jonny before booking.
How many people are on the trip?
Maximum 6 riders. Small by design so we can move fast, ride together as a crew, and get the absolute most out of every day on the mountain.
I'm travelling solo. Who will I share a room with?
Jonny will do his best to pair you with a compatible roommate. Guys and girls will be in separate rooms. If you would prefer your own room, get in touch and we can discuss options.
When is the balance due?
A $300 non-refundable deposit secures your spot. The balance is due by 26 September 2026. Jonny is happy to arrange the balance in instalments after booking, just reach out.
Gear and practicalities
Do I need to bring my own snowboard gear?
If you have your own gear, perfect. If not, rentals are available locally in Hakuba village. One important note: snow gloves and goggles cannot be rented from rental shops, so you must bring these or buy them on arrival. There are plenty of snow retail shops in Tokyo and a few in Hakuba.
What should I pack?
Pack for proper alpine conditions. Temperatures in Hakuba drop well below zero, especially at altitude. Thermals, a waterproof shell, goggles, a helmet, and warm waterproof snow gloves are non-negotiable. Do not forget your passport as Japan requires it for accommodation check-in.
What currency is used and can I pay by card?
The currency is Japanese Yen (JPY). Debit and credit cards are widely accepted and you can pay for most things on card. That said, it is handy to have some cash on hand as some smaller restaurants and local shops are cash only.
What is the food situation?
Full breakfast is included every morning from 7am. On the mountain there are restaurants where we can stop for lunch, or bring snacks from the convenience store. Each evening Jonny will take the group out to dinner at affordable local spots. Optional but highly recommended. All dietary requirements catered for where possible.
What's the snow like in late January?
The best. Powder days hit consistently through January and February. Hakuba sits in the path of Siberian storm systems delivering light, dry powder, exactly what Japan is famous for.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, mandatory. Make sure your policy specifically covers winter sports. Snowboard injuries happen and this is non-negotiable for joining the trip.
Japan for first timers
Is Japan easy to navigate for first timers?
Yes. Japan is one of the most straightforward countries in the world to travel in. Public transport is exceptional, signage is in English in most tourist areas, and locals are incredibly helpful. Hakuba is a well-established ski town with plenty of English speakers.
Do I need to speak Japanese?
Not at all. English is widely spoken in ski resort towns. A few basic words go a long way though, locals genuinely appreciate the effort.
Cancellation and changes
What is the cancellation policy?
If you pay in full you can cancel before 26 September 2026 and receive a full refund minus the $300 deposit. If you paid the deposit only, your balance is due by 26 September. After that date all logistics and accommodation are locked in and no refund can be offered. Please double-check your dates before booking and make sure you have travel insurance for peace of mind.
Recap

Here's everything you'll get.

  • 7 nights accommodation in Hakuba village
  • Full breakfast daily, vegan and vegetarian options available
  • 6-day Hakuba Valley lift pass valid across all 10 resorts
  • Private van for the group all week
  • Expert guiding from Jonny, every day on the mountain
  • Night tours and local knowledge
  • Photos and videos of the trip
6 spots (4 spots left).
Don't miss out.

$300 deposit secures your place. Balance due 26 September 2026.

Secure your spot
Jonny Melon on the chairlift in Hakuba
Your host & guide
Jonny Melon

I’ve been riding Hakuba for years and know the valley better than most — which resort to hit after a storm, where the deepest tree lines are, and where to find the best après and ramen.

This trip is small by design. Six people means we’re nimble, we wait for nobody, and we actually ride together as a crew every single day. I’ll be with you the whole time.

10+ trips to Hakuba Powder chasing Small groups only Intermediate to expert
[email protected] @jonny.melon