Hakuba Gondola Hotel, Hakuba
About the Hotel
Hakuba Gondola Hotel is located directly across from the main Happo-One Gondola, providing convenient access to one of the most popular ski resorts in the Hakuba Valley. This area is renowned for its plethora of ski terrain and consistent snowfall that exceeds 10 meters per season. The hotel is situated within walking distance of Happo Village, which features a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants. Established as a significant location during the ‘98 Nagano Olympics, the hotel holds historical importance in the Japanese ski scene.
Location
Hakuba Gondola Hotel features an advantageous location being directly across from the main Happo-One Gondola, which opens an hour earlier than other lifts. Convenient shuttle services to and from nearby stations are available for guests who make reservations in advance. The proximity to Happo Village allows for easy access to local shops, bars, and restaurants, enhancing the overall guest experience. The area is known for its natural beauty, being close to national parks and over 200 trails for skiing enthusiasts.
Rooms
All rooms at Hakuba Gondola Hotel have been recently refurbished and include an en suite bathroom, central heating, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel offers simple non-smoking accommodations with a spacious lounge area for guests to unwind. Various room types are available, including twin, double, and family rooms to cater to different group sizes. Some rooms feature additional amenities such as a bathtub and free toiletries.
Eat & Drink
Recovery Bar serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, focusing on an extensive selection of Western foods such as pizza and burgers. The bar also offers local drinks on tap, providing a casual spot for après-ski. Guests can enjoy live music and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax after a day on the slopes. The indoor smoking area and pool tables enhance the social experience offered at the hotel.
Leisure & Business
The hotel provides ski-in/ski-out access, along with free ski storage and equipment rentals for guests. A free shuttle bus service connects visitors to nine nearby alpine resorts, facilitating exploration of the diverse skiing opportunities in the area. The shared lounge features free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected, while the onsite recovery bar offers ample opportunities for leisure and relaxation. The hotel is also well-equipped for groups and families visiting for leisure purposes.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- No parking
- No pets allowed
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Ski to door
- Ski storage
- Lift
Sports & Fitness
- Skiing
Services
- Paid airport shuttle
- Ski equipment hire
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
Spa & Leisure
- Entertainment
- Hot spring bath
Room features
- Heating
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel is all about the prime location, being just opposite the Happo Gondola and close to ski hire and restaurants. The rooms were cozy with well-stocked bathrooms, but a bit tight for space. The complimentary breakfast, while basic, is a nice touch. However, soundproofing could be improved, as conversations echo along the thin doors.
The hotel is in a fantastic location, right next to the main gondola at Happo One. The rooms are clean and spacious, facilitating large groups, but the shared toilets on every level can be a downside. The service is top-notch, offering laundry and a free ski shuttle. The dining experience is satisfactory, with a variety of options including eggs, pancakes, and yogurt. The facilities are well-maintained, catering to skiers' needs while maintaining high hygiene standards.
The hotel is ideally located for easy access to the ski slopes, with some rooms offering lovely views. While the rooms are cozy with limited space, the views of Happo One and the Adam Gondola are stunning. The morning sun filtering in adds a pleasant touch, especially during snowy days.
The hotel is not bad at all, with a few things to consider. The rooms had some issues with heating on certain nights and had a bit of a backpacker vibe unless you booked a family room, but they did have a cozy bar with excellent food, and the staff were genuinely friendly. While it wouldn't be my top pick for a family holiday, it was generally decent, especially if you like spending time in the bar and lobby rather than your room. There was an unsettling incident where my room was unlocked after a day of skiing.
My stay at the hotel was decent overall. The rooms were quite messy, with snow gear scattered around as there were no lockers. However, they were spacious and comfortable, and the complimentary breakfast was a nice touch. The bathroom was small but clean.