Hakuba Cortina 31st January 2017. What a day that one was.

What an awesome snow season we had here in Hakuba for 2016/17. The season began with first lifts spinning on the 8th of December and finishing up on the 7th of May. It was a little late to start and teased us for a while but then on the 11th of January Hakuba did what it does and in a big big way. Talking to one of the expert avalanche safety patrol guys on Tsugaike, his measurements on the upper to mid mountain was 4 meters over 10 days. Over the next 2.5 months we had consistent dumps of snow giving everyone a chance to experience what keeps bringing people back. For me personally I was able to continue to explore and discover new, easy to get to spots and am constantly amazed in what I am able to find.  In regards to the groomed runs there is always plenty of fun to be had there for all levels of skiers and boarders.  The parks were upped a level with bigger and better set-ups and the usual standout, Hakuba47, were able to run to the last day.  The new lift ticket system was rushed into action at the start of the season so no doubt there were some teething problems however I have confidence that next year it should run a lot smoother. The new gates are easy to get through and the convenience of not having to buy a ticket daily or exchange a voucher is excellent for tourists. Off the mountain and into the valley Hakuba continues to grow domestically and internationally. There is a lot of development going on and even more in the planning stages. There are new restaurants, cafes and bars opening each year and the choice is outstanding. Every year I have been here I have seen subtle changes which make the experience much easier and more attractive for the foreign tourists. Thank you Hakuba for another amazing winter. I am blessed to call you my home.

Plenty of bluebird days too

Hakuba Powder Hounds found Heaven this season

Hakuba Kashimayari – that moment when the sun shines through