Things To Do In Hakuba When You Are Not Skiing

The Japanese Alps are the abode of some of the best skiing slopes in Asia and also houses world’s most popular ski resorts. Among all these, Hakuba Valley is christened as the best valley for winter vacations. With an average annual snowfall of roughly around 11 meters and ski slopes that are simply beautiful, Hakuba is rising as one of the most popular tourist destinations among ski enthusiasts. You would be surprised to find that every year around 2,00,000 foreign tourists are reaching the valley and enjoying their stay at Hakuba resorts. But this doesn’t mean that skiing is all that Hakuba has to offer. If you don’t know how to ski or want to do something else apart from skiing, there are endless cultural experiences that you can have here. Hakuba Valley offers a lifetime opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese culture with a snowy backdrop. So, today we are going to discuss what all can you do in Hakuba when you are not skiing. Let’s get started.

1.       Onsen: After spending a long day on the slopes or hiking through the valley, the best way to relax the tired body is by visiting the onsens of Hakuba valley. If not for skiing, relaxing with your family in hot water during a cold winter day has its own charm. Each onsen in the Hakuba valley has its own qualities, such as diverse water minerals, colors and healing properties. While bathing in an onsen, it is compulsory to immerse yourself in the waters completely naked. Enjoying a steamy bath while its snowing outside is an experience.

2.       Snow Monkeys: During 1970, the monkeys of Jigokudani Park were profiled on the cover page of Life Magazine. Since then, they are a major attraction of Hakuba valley. You can watch these pretty animals relaxing at Jigokudani Prak. The entrance fees is around $7 and the park opens from 9am to 4pm.

3.       Zenkoji Temple: Zenkoji temple was built in the 7^th century and is a must visit for every tourist who visits the Hakuba Valley. Known for its beauty, significance and accessibility, this temple is a sight to behold. The temple is abode to the first ever statue of Buddha that was brought to Japan. Situated at a distance of around 70 minute train travel from Hakuba, one can easily visit this temple while arriving or leaving Hakuba valley.

4.       Omachi Museum: The small town of Omachi situated near Hakuba has some of the most amazing museums depicting the great local culture. During their visits, visitors can explore Edo architecture, Edo era salt trade, yukata and kimono culture at the Chojiya Museum of Omachi. This museum was built in 1890 and it beautifully preserves once salt wholesale house. Visitors can see many traditional Japanese facilities such as doma earthen floor, open irori fireplace and tatami clad drawing room.

With that being said, these are some of the things that can be enjoyed while staying at Hakuba valley if you are done with skiing and want to do something else.