Izakaya Hie Hakuba - Japanese Sake & Foods — Restaurant in Hakuba

A very popular izakaya restaurant which you MUST make reservation or you will only return with disappointment. There is no hope for walk-in opportunity as all customer will show up on time. People do not mind to wait outside even if they arrive earlier than their booking to make sure they can get the table. You need to read their chef recommendation menu before the ordinary ones as you will always get surprise. For their wagyu beef sushi, they use a piece of thin A4 wagyu beef wrapped on top of the sushi rice roll. It is cooked in front of you by a burner such that the beef fats is soaked with the rice and so delicious. Another must pick will be the vegetable tempura which you will feel regret if you miss to order. All other foods are delicious with fresh ingredient. The restaurant is filled with great atmosphere and you are served by their very nice and friendly staff. In any case, you need to be co-operated with the restaurant and your group must arrive on time. Only two hours are offered to every reservation and you will be asked to check the bill around ten minutes...

Izakaya Hie is a true gem in Hakuba! From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warm hospitality and an authentic Japanese izakaya atmosphere. The cozy setup, complete with private rooms and traditional decor, sets the perfect stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

The food is nothing short of incredible. Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor, from the tender skewered meats to the fresh and beautifully presented sashimi. The grilled mochi with natto was a unique treat, and the beef sushi was simply divine. Their sake selection perfectly complements the menu, offering something for every palate.

The service is top-notch, and the tablet-based ordering system makes it easy to navigate the menu, even if you don't speak Japanese. It's clear that a lot of thought goes into ensuring guests feel welcome and comfortable.

Whether you're a local or visiting Hakuba, Izakaya Hie is a must-visit. I can't wait to return and explore more of their fantastic menu. Highly...

Tried to call to make a reservation at 4pm, no answer. I arrived just after 6pm and they are fully booked and told me to make a reservation. I said I called and they didn't answer. They said they only take local calls not foreign calls. I have to get my hotel ti call for me.... This is a tourist location. I'm staying at a lodge!

Update: feeling as though I might have judged too harshly I went back after dinner the following evening to try and make a reservation for the next day (assuming they weren't fully booked for days). I was told they have no time to take a reservation and to try back after 9:30pm pretty directly. I repeated what she said back and clarified they won't take my reservation for tomorrow because they're too busy and she said, yes.

I would give zero stars or negative stars if I could. It was so rude. This place clearly has more business than they can deal...