Hakuba 47 is not a huge area, but it’s packed with interesting runs and will suit intermediate to advanced riders.There is little in the way of decent beginner terrain (for that head to adjoining Goryu) and some of the runs including the main one down to the gondola can be dauntingly steep (there is a gentle cat track down). It is linked with Goryu and the same ticket does both ski areas. Hakuba 47 is completely North facing meaning it has a long season (till early May), and there can be substantial snow even at the end of the season.

The courses in detail Coming off the gondola you have 3 choices: hit the terrain park directly below, take one of the 3 intermediate runs down to the pair lift to get back to the same point, or follow the flatish beginners track (route 7). You can follow route 7 all the way to the bottom or along the way divert into route 1 which is steep and only recommended for advanced riders.

Course detail continued Catching the high speed quad (line c) gives you access to 4 great runs (routes 1, 2 and 3 and Adventure course). Route 1 leads all teh way to the base of the mountain and ranges from 22° to 28°. You will probably need to stop several times to give your legs a rest if you want to do the whole thing. Route 2 is a bit steeper and gets groomed every day but the sides are left ungroomed for powder hounds. Route 3 is the steepest at 32° and is often moguled. The Adventure course l(often closed) leads to the Iimori section of Goryu and is defiintely for advanced riders only. Powder & tree runs Hakuba 47 will certainly suit people looking for steep powder runs and has a “Double black diamond tree run club” which is free to join (go to the ski school at the bottom carpark to sign up and get a bib) and allows you to hit some of the steep tree runs. The patrol will take you lift pass if you don’t do this-they are not much fun.

Daycare and kiddies areas There is no childcare at Hakuba 47. They do have an outdoor kiddies area at the base of the mountain with a moving sidewalk which runs weekends and holidays ( 500 but sleds are free). When the sidewalk is closed entrance is free but sled rent is 500. There is also a kids room next door inside the “Euclid” building ( 300 )

The Terrain Park 47’s terrain is widely considered to one of the best in Japan with the biggest jump coming in at a massive 16 mtrs. Besides multiple kickers it also has the best half pipe in Hakuba, rails , tabletops, banks, boxes and so on. Lots of small stuff too so you don’t need to be a pro.

Getting there To get here get one of the free shuttle buses , or if you are driving they have a huge car park that is completely free. Many customers sleep overnight in their station wagons or vans in the car park and the staff don’t seem to mind. Places to stay Most people just catch the shuttle bus rather than stay here. There are only a few pleaces to stay close by, and all are self contained. You will need a wad of money and a vehicle of your own would be highly recommended. Still, if you are looking for somewhere a little of the beaten path then check out this Hakuba 47 accommodation guide.