Local Beta: Jamie Carroll

Jamie is evoTrip Guest Experience Lead and Certified Professional Ski and Mountain Bike Guide, with years of experience in Hakuba. Check out his trail and restaurant recommendations here!

Can you share a bit about your background?

I’m from Whistler, BC and I've had the privilege of guiding evo trips in British Columbia, Austria, Chile, and Japan. Every year I especially look forward to returning to the magical Hakuba Valley. The incredible snowfall, diverse resorts, authentic Japanese cuisine, and vibrant nightlife make Hakuba a place that I hold close to my heart.

What hidden gems can you share?

The breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps from Goryu/Happo 47, Happo One, and Iwatake are something truly special. I love taking a moment to sit back, gaze at the vast mountain ranges, and soak in the beauty—dreaming of the adventures they hold.

What’s your favorite trail or run in Hakuba?

My favorite run in Hakuba is at Cortina! I love blasting down the frontside tree laps beneath Chair No. 4. The runs offer long, steep hallways and pillows through the stunning Japanese old-growth forest, and on a powder day, you're guaranteed to get buried in deep Japanese powder with every turn. If you’re doing it right, you’ll hear the cheers from fellow powder enthusiasts riding the chair above.

Any advice for chasing adrenaline in Hakuba?

Get up early! While Hakuba isn’t as busy as North American resorts, there’s still an international crowd eager for the same powder experience. As the saying goes, “if you’re not first, you’re last”—so grab the fresh snow before everyone else. That said, you can still find great snow well into the afternoon. That’s the magic of Japan: deep, light snow all day long. And don’t forget to visit the Japanese onsens after skiing. These hot baths are perfect for helping your body recover, so you’ll be ready to charge down the mountains again the next day.

What do you hope visitors take away from their trip to Japan?

I hope everyone who visits Japan takes a moment to slow down and appreciate the rich cultural experiences—the historic temples, shrines, and traditional festivals. Japan seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern innovation, in a culture deeply rooted in respect and honor. A trip to Japan is much more than just mountain sports; it’s a deeply enriching cultural journey.

Can you recommend some restaurants in Hakuba?

Absolutely! Here are a few of my top picks:

• Ghengis Khan Miyama (Casual BBQ): It’s the best BBQ around. You grill your own meat from the comfort of your seat and enjoy a traditional Japanese atmosphere at this excellent Echoland eatery.
• Mimi’s Restaurant and Bar (Fine Dining): Located at the Phoenix Hotel, it offers modern cuisine with top-class local ingredients. The exceptional service, sophisticated ambiance, and impressive wine list make it stand out.
• Tottsuan Ramen: A short walk from Hakuba Station, Tottsuan serves some of the best ramen in town. With four broth bases to choose from, it’s the perfect place to refuel after a long day on the slopes.

How about bar recommendations for après-ski?

For a great après-ski experience, I recommend:

• Mocking Bird: This bar has a creative woodwork design, with a large driftwood tree in the center, and serves a great selection of beer, wine, and traditional Japanese cocktails.
• Holy Smokes: Hakuba’s only speakeasy-style bar. It’s super popular, so get there early! It’s off the main strip in Echoland—look for the cigarette vending machine, pull it, and descend the hidden stairway below.

What are the top three things visitors should do in the region?

First, get out and enjoy the mountains! Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, or hiking, the natural beauty of the area is breathtaking. Second, visit a traditional Japanese onsen for a rejuvenating soak after a day of adventures. Lastly, I’d recommend a visit to Zenkoji Temple and the Snow Monkey Park for a unique cultural experience.