Happokan
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 127 reviews
Happokan is a compact, family-run ryokan set on the lower slopes of the Happo-One area, offering a mix of Western twin rooms and traditional Japanese tatami rooms with futon bedding. Public spaces include a welcoming lobby with fireplace and piano, a small souvenir corner, and a dining room where a daily Japanese breakfast is served. Practical amenities geared to active travellers include a coin laundry, complimentary coffee and tea each morning, on-site parking and lobby Wi‑Fi; staff can advise on shuttle times and local ski-rental shops.
The property’s hot spring facilities form a central part of the experience: a spacious, gender-segregated public bath supplied by the local Hakuba Happo Onsen and available around the clock, providing a warm, alkaline soak to ease tired muscles after hiking or skiing. Bathing is accompanied by typical ryokan touches such as yukata robes and provided towels, and the layout prioritises privacy and relaxation. For visitors seeking an authentic soak close to the slopes, this ryokan with onsen in Hakuba is a convenient option.
Guest rooms are simply furnished and well maintained, with heating, television and en suite bathrooms in most units; Japanese-style rooms retain tatami flooring and futon arrangements for a traditional stay. The team arranges practical details — directions to slopes and bus connections, luggage storage and assistance with local excursions — making this a useful base for exploring the Northern Alps. Combined with easy access to nearby eateries and trails, Happokan presents a straightforward ryokan with onsen Nagano for travellers focused on outdoor activity and comfort.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Happokan
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff and personalised service
Many reviewers highlighted exceptionally friendly, helpful hosts who went out of their way to assist guests (local tips, shuttle/lift help, preparing rooms early, small thoughtful extras), creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Excellent location for skiing and transport
Guests praised the convenient location close to Happo Bus Terminal, bus stops and within walking distance of Happo‑one lifts, ski shuttle pickups, restaurants and rental shops — making access to slopes and transport easy.
Onsite onsen and ski facilities
The hotel’s hot onsen was repeatedly noted as clean, relaxing and ideal after a day on the slopes. Reviewers also appreciated practical ski amenities such as ski/snowboard storage and a dedicated locker room.
Delicious traditional Japanese breakfasts
Many guests enjoyed the Japanese breakfast (well‑prepared, varied daily and a highlight for starting the ski day), with occasional Western options available for preference.
Clean, comfortable rooms with mountain views and good value
Reviewers found the rooms tidy, cozy and often spacious by Japanese standards, with nice mountain views and comfortable futon beds; overall many felt the stay offered excellent value for price.
Negative Reviews
Limited room size for larger groups
Some reviewers noted that traditional ryokan‑style rooms can be tight for four people when luggage and gear are included, so space may be constrained for larger groups.
Insufficient storage for larger snowboards/gear
A few guests mentioned the need for more or larger storage options specifically for snowboards and bulky equipment during multi‑day stays.
Basic bathroom facilities and amenities
Bathrooms were described as basic (clean and functional but not luxurious); one reviewer specifically noted the absence of a bidet.
Firm beds may not suit everyone
At least one guest found the bed a bit hard — this appears to be a matter of personal preference rather than a widespread issue.
Rooms are simple rather than flashy
Several reviews pointed out the accommodation is unpretentious and not overly modern or flashy — comfortable and functional rather than high‑end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types include twin, double and Japanese-style family rooms; family rooms can sleep up to four guests on futons and twin/double rooms suit two. Extra beds are available on request for some room types.
Yes — the property has a gender-separated public hot spring bath on site. Guests normally have 24-hour access but the hotel enforces a curfew (no entry between 00:00 and 05:00).
A private onsen is not listed among standard facilities; the baths are communal and gender-segregated. Contact the property directly to ask about any private-rental options or special requests.
There is no regular scheduled airport shuttle listed; shuttle services have at times been suspended and should be confirmed with the property before arrival. The hotel is best reached by train to Hakuba and local buses or taxis from the station or bus terminals.
Staff are noted as very helpful to international guests and can provide assistance in English for common requests. If you require a specific language service, please contact the property in advance.
You can book Japanese-style rooms with tatami and futon bedding, wear provided yukata robes, use the communal onsen and enjoy a daily Japanese breakfast. The lobby features traditional touches such as a piano and fireplace that enhance the ryokan atmosphere.
Hakuba Happo-One ski area is only a short drive away and the Happo bus terminal is within walking distance; nearby sites include Hakuba Iwatake, Hakuba Goryu and the La Foret Hakuba Art Museum. The hotel is well placed for ski slopes and local sightseeing.
Hakuba Train Station is a short drive from the property and local buses serve the Happo bus terminal, which is within easy walking distance. Check local bus timetables for routes to the ski areas and nearby attractions.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00. Guests should observe quiet hours (typically 21:00–07:00) and note that the property restricts access between midnight and 05:00.
Pets are not permitted on the premises. The hotel has vending machines on site and a range of restaurants, shops and convenience stores are located near the bus terminal; staff can direct you to the nearest supermarket or dining options.