Looking for a refreshing mountain escape in Japan that's not yet packed with tourists?

Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort might be your perfect destination. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, it’s a peaceful yet exciting place to enjoy breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and some of the best mountain cafes in the country.

Best of all, it’s easier to get to than you think!

Your journey begins with a relaxing gondola ride that takes you gently up the mountain. As you ascend, the landscape opens up — lush green valleys, dramatic alpine peaks, and the fresh air of Nagano surrounds you. The ride itself is already an experience! (More on access below) 

Top Attractions

Feel the Trill on the YOOHOO SWING

At the summit, don’t miss one of Iwatake’s signature attractions: YOOHOO SWING.

Set on the edge of the mountain, this wooden swing lets you glide out into open space with the stunning Northern Alps unfolding in front of you. As you swing forward, the valley below drops away, and for a moment, you feel like you're flying. It’s fun, Instagram-worthy, and even a bit emotional — especially when you pause mid-air to take in the view. (¥500 per ride, ticket available from the vending machine)

NEW! Hakuba Giant Swing ― Bigger and More Thrilling

Soar through the air at 1,100 meters above sea level on one of Japan’s largest swings.

Opened in autumn 2023, the Hakuba Giant Swing launches riders from a 10-meter height. Overlooking the rural charm of Hakuba Village and the peaks of the Northern Alps, it offers a magical “Heidi of the Alps” feeling for both kids and adults. (￥1,000 per ride)

CITY BAKERY ― Hakuba Mountain Harbor

Right next to the swing, stop at CITY BAKERY, a stylish spot famous for its fresh croissants. Enjoy a drink or light meal while gazing out at the breathtaking views of the Northern Alps. Signature items include croissants, cookies, soups, and sandwiches—including the exclusive Hakuba Pork Croissant Sandwich.

CHAVITY HAKUBA

CHAVATY HAKUBA is a specialty tea latte and scone café tucked away in nature with panoramic views of the Northern Alps. Enjoy carefully brewed Uva tea lattes and original scones, including aromatic kuromoji flavor. The café also serves light meals such as soup with “Hakuba Ham,” fresh Nagano vegetable salads, and a signature picnic basket set perfect for enjoying in a scenic outdoor spot.

Enjoy freshly baked scones and milk tea at CHAVATY, with stunning views of the Hakuba mountains all around.

Activities for Everyone

Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort offers fun and accessible adventures for solo travelers, couples, and families.

Mountain Cart

Race Mountaincart offers a fun and thrilling ride from the 1,289-meter summit down a 1.4 km course through beautiful mountain scenery. Using only handlebars and brakes, you control your descent while enjoying panoramic views of Hakuba Village and the Northern Alps. (￥2,000 per person)

A mountain cart waits at the top of the slope, ready for a ride through open skies and alpine views.

Guided Buggy Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing 15-minute guided buggy tour around the scenic mountaintop course! (Adults: ￥2,000 / Children: ￥1,000) 

Other exciting activities at Hakuba Iwatake include horseback riding, a walk through the mystical “Nezuko Forest,” guided nature tours, and the popular Iwatake MTB Park. Some requires advance reservation. There's something for everyone to enjoy!

Dining at Hakuba Mountain Harbor

Aside from the famous CITY BAKERY café terrace and CHAVATY HAKUBA, Hakuba Iwatake offers several other great dining spots.

• Skyark Deck Café: Enjoy miso ramen and local drinks with a view.
• Hakuba Deli Stand & BBQ Garden: Serves rich Azumino soft-serve and offers a BBQ experience with Nagano meats and fresh vegetables. (Reservation required)
• Hakuba Deli: Serves daily lunch sets with salad, soup, curry, and a variety of local light meals and snacks.

Getting to Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort

Accessing Hakuba Iwatake is easy — the Gondola “Noah” base station is located right next to the Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort bus stop.

From Nagano to Hakuba

The bus stop for Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort is conveniently located right next to the gondola station. If you're coming from Nagano Station, take the Nagano–Hakuba Line Bus and get off at the "Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort" bus stop.

The Alpico bus to Hakuba Iwatake departs directly from Nagano Station, making access simple and smooth.

From Matsumoto to Hakuba

From Matsumoto, take the JR Oito Line and transfer once at Shinano-Omachi Station to reach JR Hakuba Station. From there, either take a taxi (about ¥2,000 one way) or board the Hakuba–Happo–Tsugaike Line bus, which also stops right at the resort. 

From Tokyo to Hakuba

Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano Station (1 hr 30 min). Then transfer to the Nagano–Hakuba bus, and ride about 1 hr 30 min to Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort bus stop, just steps from the gondola.

When to Visit Hakuba Iwatake

It is important to note that the gondola and mountaintop area are not open year-round, as the resort requires preparation time between the winter ski season and the green season for outdoor activities.

Hakuba Iwatake is a summer sanctuary—and also a winter wonderland. A visit to the Japanese Alps isn’t complete without enjoying both sides of the mountain.

Also curious about winter?
Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort: A Truly Winter Wonderland