Where are all the people? Not in Hakuba thats for sure.
Weekends can get a little crowded here but we are not talking big lift lines that some of the well known resorts around the world experience. In fact you will find it unusual even on a weekend to end up in a lift line at the bottom of many of the runs here. It is one thing that hasn’t really changed in Hakuba over the years that I have been coming. If you are planning your trip and you really want the best conditions along with the least amount of people then this time of the season is perfect. You should keep an eye on when Chinese New Year is on however as this period changes each year and can get busy along with long weekends and the Christmas / New Year period.
Hakuba Blog 
It’s amazing that so few come considering the population and proximity of Tokyo & Osaka!
There are a few Tokyo weekend warriors who have their nice little holiday homes here.
Hey Tony,
When is the Chinese new year?! Just under 2 weeks till we get to White Horse! Just taken delivery of all my new gear, boots, jacket .etc finding my self looking at weather info every day!
Chinese New Year starts on the 14th of February. You’ll be right though. The crowds are more than usual but it won’t be as bad as the lift lines in Oz