Overview
Hakuba Valley and its nine ski resorts invite you to experience an unforgettable adventure of snowsports and traditional Japanese culture. Offering a diverse selection of terrain, the 200-plus runs in Hakuba Valley are blessed with an abundance of snow. Host of the Winter Olympics, Hakuba presents world-class snowsports infastructure and terrain.
Itinerary
Hakuba Snowsports
- Sports
- Snowsports
Day 1
Travel to Japan (Tokyo)
Explore Hakuba Valley
Journey through the snow-covered countryside to Hakuba Valley, your snowsports destination. Get to know the valley, home to nine ski resorts and expansive terrain suited to all ability levels.
Day 2
Collect your snowsports gear
Collect your snowsports rental equipment and get familiar with the resort and terrain before heading out for the day.
First snowsports lesson
Students experience skiing and snowboarding with expert instructors and high-quality snowsports gear, including skis, boards, clothing and mandatory helmets. During the first lesson, students are separated into groups based on their skiing or snowboarding ability and continue lessons each day throughout the program. Instructors build on students’ skills each day to support continued growth and confidence on the slopes.
Afternoon snowsports
Enjoy more time on the slopes as you practise your skills and put new techniques into action.
Snowshoeing
Experience the serenity of the snow forest and get some exercise at the same time on a snowshoeing tour.
Day 3
Second snowsports lesson
Build on your skiing or snowboarding skills as you explore the resort’s marked trails with friends during your second lesson. All lessons include instruction and guidance on mountain safety.
Afternoon snowsports
Enjoy more time on the slopes as you practise your skills and put new techniques into action.
Onsen soak
Unwind and rejuvenate like the locals in your private onsen.
Day 4
Third snowsports lesson
Build your balance and confidence as expert instructors help you take on new challenges during your next snowsports lesson.
Afternoon snowsports
Enjoy more time on the slopes as you practise your skills and put new techniques into action.
Kimono and tea ceremony
Get dressed up and enjoy a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony.
Evening activities
After dinner, practise your Japanese phrases, learn the traditional wooden skill game kendama, or relax with a book.
Day 5
Fourth snowsports lesson
Continue building your skills as your instructors introduce new techniques and challenges on the slopes.
Afternoon snowsports
Enjoy more time on the slopes as you practise your skills and put new techniques into action.
Evening activities
After dinner, practise your Japanese phrases, learn the traditional wooden skill game kendama, or relax with a book.
Day 6
Snow Monkey Park
Travel to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where you can see Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs.
Obuse visit
Visit the ancient Obuse, a small Japanese town with a big history of art.
Zenkoji Temple visit
Learn about Buddhism in Japan at the 1500-year-old Zenkoji Temple.
Day 7
Fifth snowsports lesson
Enjoy another day of lessons as you continue developing your skills with guidance from your instructor.
Afternoon snowsports
Enjoy more time on the slopes as you practise your skills and put new techniques into action.
Day 8
Final snowsports lesson
Make the most of your final snowsports lesson as you put your skills to the test with guidance from your instructors and enjoy time on the slopes.
Afternoon snowsports
Enjoy more time on the slopes as you practise your skills and put new techniques into action.
Free time to explore Hakuba
Wander around your local area and try a crepe at a street stall.
Day 9
Travel to Japan (Tokyo)
Explore Tokyo
After settling in at your accommodation in Shinjuku, hit the streets to explore this hyperactive city.
Day 10
Tokyo guided sightseeing tour
Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where neon lights mix with tranquil temples and cutting-edge technology blends with age-old traditions. With your local guide, start at Senso-ji Temple, where incense smoke is believed to heal. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, honouring Emperor Meiji and his empress, then explore the vibrant Harajuku District, famed for bold fashion and youth culture.
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing in October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more meaningful learning moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Select transport options that suit your group's needs
- Choose from a variety of accommodation styles to support your level of comfort
Dine Your Way
- Choose pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2 course meals at local restaurants or at your accommodation, with the option to upgrade to 3 courses
Inclusions
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and from your destination
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
A mix of hotel and snow lodge accommodations
Daily meals with options varying by program
Snowsports lift pass, lesson and equipment pass
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding multi-day bus drivers)
Entrance fees to attractions as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
Scenes from Hakuba
Health, Safety & Protection
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
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