Nestled in the pristine Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture lies Hakuba, a remarkable destination where tradition seamlessly merges with sustainability. Its story harks back to the birth of the “minshuku” culture—a cherished tradition where local residents, often mountain guides and farmers, warmly welcomed mountaineers and skiers into their homes. Here, travelers not only found shelter but also enjoyed local cuisine crafted from rice and vegetables cultivated on these very farms. This genuine hospitality laid the foundation for a spirit of resourcefulness and community that continues to thrive in Hakuba, transforming it into a globally renowned resort celebrated for authenticity and warmth.
Hakuba Village, known as Hakuba-mura in Japanese, is nestled in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. As of April 1, 2019, it had an estimated population of 9,007 residing in 4,267 households, with a population density of 48 persons per square kilometre. The village is ensconced in the eastern foothills of the Hida Mountains, situated in the northern part of the Japanese Alps. While Hakuba is renowned as a prominent ski resort destination, it also serves as the gateway for embarking on treks up Mount Shirouma and Mount Goryu, two prominent peaks among Japan’s One Hundred Mountains.
Surrounded by picturesque valleys that witness an annual snowfall exceeding 11 meters, Hakuba has evolved into the epicenter of ten ski resorts offering over 200 ski runs. In 1998, it gained global recognition as the main event venue for the Winter Olympics, hosting thrilling competitions in Alpine skiing, ski jumping, and cross-country skiing.
HIGHLIGHTS
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World-class ski destination
The village has evolved into a world-class ski destination which stands as a testament to its resilience and adaptability. The local youth’s pioneering spirit in developing ski courses in the mid-1900s led to its prestigious role as a host of the 1998 Nagano Olympics, solidifying its status as one of Asia’s largest ski resorts. This indomitable spirit fuels Hakuba’s commitment to local production, environmental preservation, and cultural heritage conservation.
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Universal design for inclusive tourism
In its Aoni region, picturesque scenes reminiscent of the late 1800s come to life, with traditional thatch-roofed houses and stone-walled terraced rice paddies. Villagers have united to preserve this charming rural landscape by producing specialty rice products and meticulously restoring historic buildings.
Education also forms a cornerstone of innovation in Hakuba. The village proudly supports the International Tourism Course at a local high school, drawing students from across Japan. Additionally, the Hakuba Mountain Guides Association, with over a century of history, ensures the safety of climbers and imparts mountain climbing culture and history.
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Sustainable tourism management
Hakuba Village stands as a testament to sustainable tourism management with a forward-looking perspective. The village envisions itself as an all-season mountain resort, capable of hosting a steady flow of tourists throughout the year without harming the environment or the local community. This vision translates into concrete actions, such as preserving and harnessing local resources, nurturing local talent, and fostering economic growth through agricultural initiatives.
What sets Hakuba apart is its bold commitment to achieving 100% energy self-sufficiency through renewable sources like hydroelectric power. This dedication extends beyond environmental stewardship; it aims to create a sustainable local environment that benefits both visitors and residents. Hakuba’s approach is an exemplary model for communities seeking to balance tourism with long-term ecological and social well-being.
