Hakuba Sanosaka Snow Resort — Attraction in Hakuba

Hakuba Sanosaka might not be the biggest resort in the Hakuba Valley, but that’s part of its charm. The slopes are smaller compared to some of the more well-known resorts in the area, making it a great spot for beginners and intermediate skiers looking for a more relaxed experience.

While I still think Tsugaike edges it out for complete beginners—thanks to its wide, gentle terrain—Sanosaka has a lot going for it. One of the biggest perks is how quiet it is. Since it’s less popular than its neighbors, the slopes are far less crowded, which we really appreciated. No long lift lines, no weaving through throngs of people—just smooth runs and space to practice.

Another plus: the ski pass is cheaper than most resorts in the area, making it a great budget-friendly option if you’re not after the biggest vertical drops or the most advanced terrain.

If you’re after a low-key day on the mountain or just starting out with skiing or snowboarding, Hakuba Sanosaka is a...

Great Ski Resort for Beginners

We had a fantastic time at this resort, especially as beginners. We were lucky to experience heavy snowfall on a spring day – at one point, the snow was so thick that I couldn’t even see my skis while skiing!

Although it’s a relatively small ski area, the food court offers a decent variety of options, which was a pleasant surprise. One of the highlights was how uncrowded it was, making it easier to navigate the slopes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The ski lift pass is also more affordable compared to larger resorts, which makes sense since it mainly caters to beginners and intermediate skiers. If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly ski resort with fewer crowds and good value for money, this is a...

Tiniest resort in Hakuba but delivers the punch on a day with good powder and blue skies. Runs are wide and long, must mention the quad lifts run at a good speed that keeps you going. Both Lake Down and Paradise runs are fabulous for beginners and intermediate skiers. The view is breathtaking - online pictures do it no justice! Lunch at Castor Plaza was also...