Apres in Hakuba: The 10 Best Places to Enjoy Apres Ski

Après-ski might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Japan—but in Hakuba, it should be. This mountain town has carved out its own unique take on the après scene, offering everything from scenic mountain top lounges and outdoor foot onsen bars to live DJs, craft cocktails, and cozy hotel hideaways. Whether you’re in the mood for a long lunch with alpine views or a lively night out with fellow mountain goers, there’s a spot for every vibe.

Below are our 10 favorite spots to enjoy après ski in Hakuba.

1). Hakuba Aprés x Veuve Cliquot Sun Club

Right at the base of the Nakiyama Slope, Hakuba Après is the first and only daily on-snow party in Hakuba. Ski straight in for live music and a glass of Veuve Clicquot—you’re not likely to be alone. In fact, Hakuba Après pours more Veuve Clicquot than anywhere else in Japan during the winter season. This vibrant venue is a collaboration with Veuve Clicquot, made unmistakable by its Instagram-worthy orange furniture and orange gondola.

Location: Nakiyama Slope, Happo-One

Hakuba Après

2). Marillen Hotel

Marillen Hotel brings alpine charm to the base of Happo-One, making it the perfect spot to decompress after a day on the mountain. Just across from Hakuba Après, warm up fireside with the Veuve Clicquot 90 minute long lunch (from 14:00 daily). Cozy, rustic, and slope-side—this is après with European flair, right in the heart of Hakuba.

Veuve Cliquot Long Lunch Inclusions

• Bottomless Champagne
• Salad
• Charcuterie
• Cheese Fondue
• Desert

Location: Happo-One

Marillen

3). Oakley Terrace

Oakley Terrace at Hakuba Happo-One is the ultimate mountaintop après destination. Perched at Usagidaira, aside the Happo-One gondola, it transforms into a lively venue with DJ sets, dancing, and panoramic alpine views. Whether you’re sipping a cold drink or enjoying the music, it’s the perfect spot to keep the energy going after a day on the slopes.

Location: Happo-One

Oakley Terrace

4). Hakuba Harbor Mountain

Hakuba Mountain Harbor is a lively, serene après-ski escape high above Iwatake Resort. Every week, the mountaintop turns into a party spot with the Hakuba Winter Sessions, bringing live DJs to the iconic mountain top terrace. From the deck, you can watch skiers and snowboarders carve through the Iwatake Back Bowl below – making it one of the most scenic ways to end your day.

Location: Iwatake

Iwatake Mountain Harbor

5). Norikura Aqua Oasis

Hakuba Norikura Aqua Oasis is a premier spot for après-ski partying, offering a unique hot spring experience amidst stunning snow-capped mountain views. After a day on the slopes, take a dip into one of the six different pools, including an open-air jet bath, while soaking in the breathtaking scenery of the Hakuba Alps. Known for its lively atmosphere, this is where everyone goes to loosen up and celebrate after a long day on the slopes.

Location: Norikura

Norikura Aqua Oasis

6). Blizzard

Blizzard is more than just incredible wood-fired Italian pizza—it’s also a favorite après-ski spot in Hakuba. Located less than 100 meters from the Happo-One gondola, it’s the perfect place to roll into after your last run. Whether you’re grabbing dinner with friends or sticking around for the daily live music (7-10pm) and DJ sets (10-2am), Blizzard strikes the perfect balance between authentic Italian cuisine and energetic après-ski fun.

Location: Happo

Blizzard

7). Calico

Calico is a standout après-ski destination located in the heart of Hakuba’s vibrant Echoland district. Open from 7 am until late, it seamlessly transitions from a cozy café serving breakfast and lunch to a lively international bar scene in the evening, with friendly staff, tasty burgers and of course cold beer and refreshing cocktails. Calico is the perfect setting to pull up to after a day on the slopes, whether you’re enjoying a relaxed meal, or sipping on signature cocktails, like the spicy margarita, during their popular happy hour. Make sure to also check out Holy Smokes, a speakeasy bar just around the corner from the entrance.

Location: Echoland

Calico

8). The Rabbit Hole

The Rabbit Hole is a lively après-ski destination just 150 meters from the Sakka Slopes in Upper Wadano. After a day on the mountain, kick back with their barista-made espressos, cold craft beer, and their renowned burgers and sandwiches (don’t miss their legendary Smash or Pass burger!). With live music, a pool table, and a warm, social vibe, it’s one of Hakuba’s most popular spots to kick back after the lifts stop spinning.

Location: Wadano

Rabbit Hole

9). Tsuga Base

Tsuga Base is a cozy café and bar located at the base of Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort, offering a laid back après-ski experience. After a day on the slopes, you can relax with quick dishes, including their famous pulled pork sandwiches, and a wide selection of beers and whiskeys, all while soaking your feet in the complimentary footbath. With its welcoming atmosphere, great food and beverage variety, and lively vibe, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the warmth of both the food and the foot onsen.

Location: Tsugaike

Tsuga Base

10). evo Hotel Bar

The most modern and distinctive hotel in the Hakuba Valley, evo Hotel’s funky social lounge is where mountain folk gather to mingle over craft drinks and live tunes. The vibe is something one of a kind to Hakuba –  think vintage furniture, cool art, vinyl records, and coffee table books that’ll keep you browsing between sips. From your morning caffeine fix to evening cocktails, this laid-back yet swanky hangout is fast becoming a must-hit spot on Hakuba’s après scene.

Location: Happo

evo Hotel

11). *Bonus* Snow Machine

Every March, Snow Machine transforms Hakuba into the ultimate après-ski party with mountain stages, village sets, and world-class DJs. From sunlit slope-side sets to late-night dance floors throughout Hakuba, the energy is non-stop. For one week only, skiing and snowboarding meet music festival vibes in a celebration of snow, sound, and community.

Location: Donguri Campground – Happo

Snow Machine