And that's a wrap to the season

Well it was a monster of a season for snowfall! No matter what statistics you listen to the season was one that will be remembered for a very long time. Japan has seen record numbers of visitors and it seems to be the number one on spot everybody's travel bucket list.

What did we love about this season just gone?

 There was some amazing food vendor trucks scattered through town with a large food vendor section in echo land. We also had a cool little steak truck and drinks truck near us on the Echo land access road which did some amazing hot cocktails too.

Our preferred snow gear hire companies Rythmn and Central Snowsports excelled on all levels again this year providing up-to-date gear at reasonable prices and giving an easy access to the service for our Guests. Keep an eye out for their pre season deals as these guys are the two companies that care the most for our guests.

Kashimiyari mountain delivered the goods for the families with a dedicated kids park offering an all day pass with a one time payment allowing kids to have snow tubing and snow based bikes and assorted tobogans to ride down the hill all with Magic carpet access. A great affordable day was had although further down the valley and a little more difficult access it's definitely worth the trip.

We discovered that Hakuba now has a Raclette restaurant and also discovered we love melted cheese, well we already knew that bit. At Mont Blanc you get to eat delicious amazing cheeses melted over your choice of condiments and sides, it is definitely a highlight for those looking to experience fine dining in Hakuba.

Cantina kept up their standard of amazing food and brilliant breakfast this year with their Caesar salad being a standout. The breakfast wraps and espresso base beverages were also top-notch.

Our local eatery at the bottom of the street opposite the 711 Harris delivered an amazing experience for everyone we sent their way always a challenge to get into but always happy to see their guess. This mum and dad operation is a must do if you're staying with us .

We pumped out some amazing meals from our own kitchen each night. We dedicate ourselves to one special meal that taste like home. Plus we have some delicious bar snacks, toasted sandwiches and deep-fried chicken for those apres tummies, Korean spiced chicken being a highlight for me.

Transport was a real challenge for everyone in the village with the popularity of snowboarding skyrocketing through Japan. Ubers and taxis are always a problem through the season and the shuttle bus was not all that reliable. It's always a great option to line up a rental car which we can arrange, so touch base with us if you want to take the easy way out instead of standing in the snow waiting for a full bus .

Sorry, but we suckers for Starbucks on the main road between Happo and the train station. It is one of the most amazing views, fast easy coffee and we have fallen in love with the best caramel macchiato.

What did we hate:

Well we gave up on snow clearing that's for sure. We're lucky to have machine clearing in place for the street and parking areas under the building but the balcony out front just became a no-go zone.

The local hill Hakuba 47was still an amazing place for all of our guests, located five minutes from the hotel via a regular shuttle bus 47 linked to Goryu Mountain its an amazing place for people to go and even has the best snow school in Hakuba as well as gladed tree riding sections and fun groomers. This makes it arguably the best set up in Hakuba, this mountain delivers on all levels

In closing we find it important to point out that we are all tourists in another country and we need to be respectful of that country and it's traditions and laws. The town site is experiencing issues with alcohol fueled visitors and littering is a major problem. Please, if you come to Hakuba show the respect that you would like shown in your own home suburb. Pick up your trash and treat people with kindness, everyone will still continue to have the best powder holidays of their lives.

Thanks to all our past and future guests. We love you