Local Beta: Katie Lasak

Katie, the Social Content Lead at evo, has a knack for uncovering the true spirit of a place. Her time in Hakuba, Japan, was no different. From incredible ski runs to unique dining and culture, she’s here to share her insights on what makes Hakuba a must-visit.

Any hidden gems that’ll make us feel like true Hakuba insiders?

I don’t have any specific hidden gems, but my advice to anyone visiting is to explore and try as much as you can! I was able to discover so many different restaurants, shops, bars, and tidbits on the mountain just by exploring and being willing to try something new, even if something didn’t look all that thrilling. Some of my favorite moments were simply by trying new food at dinner, checking out a new bar, or heading to a new part of the mountain with my guide or group. You get so much more out of Hakuba if you’re willing to try everything and experience as much as you can.

What’s your favorite trail or run in Hakuba, and why?

I enjoyed every resort we skied at, but really loved my time at Hakuba Goryu. I enjoyed the variety it offered, and the resort seemed to go on forever. We were able to cruise down wide runs or go track down powder in the trees. It was surrounded by beautiful views, there were snow sculptures sprinkled throughout which were very unique, and I warmed up with an amazing bowl of Ramen at the base after a great day of skiing.

Got any advice for guests chasing the adrenaline in Hakuba?

Chat with your guides and get their insight and advice. They know the best spots and can craft a good plan for you based on the conditions and what you’re looking for. There were some spots our guides took us to that got our adrenalin’ going, but were some of my favorite runs of the trip.

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

I would want visitors to experience the culture as much as possible. Talk to your guides, meet locals, and absorb as much as you can from this culture. There is so much within Japan that is unique and special, and if you really let yourself take it all in, even if it feels very new, you will come away with such a new appreciation for the country, and your trip will amplify tenfold.

Restaurant recommendations

Restaurant Seppo at Snow Peak Land Station – There is a lot of delicious food in Hakuba, but one of my favorite meals was at the Snow Peak Land Station. This restaurant is located within the Snow Peak Land Station, which is a beautiful building with impressive architecture inspired by nature, and overlooks the alps in the distance. The food is elevated, delicious, and beautifully plated, and aims to connect people to nature. The restaurant is located next to the Snow Peak retail store, and shopping was a nice treat after a great meal.

Bar Recommendations

Fireworks Bar Matsuri - This was my favorite bar in Hakuba. It’s located within a yurt, so it isn’t the largest space, but it has really low-key vibes and good drinks. You immediately feel like you’re part of the family when you walk in. You can sit on a couch by the fire within the yurt and sip your cocktail while the owner plays music on a record player. My favorite part was the owner’s two dogs who hang out inside of the bar. They are very friendly and great company. As an extra treat, this bar also sells fireworks that you can shoot off in their parking lot.

Yohei Club - If you’re looking for more of a dive bar, bartenders with stories, and some fun games, this is the place. There isn’t anything particularly extravagant about it and doesn’t look like much from the outside, but we ended up returning a few times because we enjoyed our time there so much. We played puzzle games and chatted with the bartenders, who were professional snowboarders with many great stories. If you’re looking for a hole-in-the-wall, this is your place.

Top 3 things to do in the region

Go to an onsen - This speaks for itself but there are so many great onsens to explore, each with their own vibe. I went to three just within Hakuba and each was a unique experience. Some of my favorites were the Happo Onsen at the Mominoki and the Highland Hotel Onsen. There was also the Ashiyu Foot Onsen at the base of the Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort which offered a relaxing and unique experience after a day on the hill.

See the snow monkeys – While this was on my bucket list, seeing the snow monkeys at the Jigokudani was so much better than I imagined. You get to walk amongst the monkeys and see them in a natural habitat. I could’ve stayed at the snow monkey park all day. A must-do!

Do some karaoke! – I was apprehensive about this one, but it really was such a blast, and such a staple of the culture. I have fond memories from every moment of my trip, but the times we did karaoke definitely stand out.