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Hakuba Cortina
Hakuba Cortina, at the northern edge of Hakuba Valley, is famed for its deep “Japow” and the valley’s highest snowfall. With challenging tree runs, a ski-in/ski-out hotel, and direct access to Hakuba Norikura, it’s a premier powder destination in Japan.
Last Updated: October 11, 2025 by Tak
Currently Closed
N/A°C
Temperature
0cm
Fresh Snow
Resort Stats
0cm
Base Depth
16
Courses
3.5km
Longest Run
Currently Closed
Please wait till winter season :)
Powder Quality
9.0
Legendary Japanese powder
Terrain Variety
7.0
Diverse slopes & terrain
Family Friendly
6.0
Perfect for all ages
Latest News from Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort
About the Resort
Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort sits at the northernmost part of Hakuba Valley in northwestern Nagano Prefecture at the base of the Northern Japan Alps. The valley was a 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics venue and is famous for its light, dry "Japow" snow.
Cortina is renowned for having the highest snowfall in Hakuba Valley and being the area's premier destination for natural powder. It connects to Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort, offers challenging terrain with excellent tree skiing, and features the ski-in/ski-out Hotel Green Plaza (253 rooms).
Why You'll Love Hakuba Cortina
Exceptional Powder in a Heavy Snowfall Area
Deep, fluffy snow thanks to one of Japan’s highest snowfalls
Located at the base of the Northern Japanese Alps, Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort is famous for its massive snowfall. After a fresh dump, you can experience chest-deep powder—making it a bucket-list destination for powder hunters from around the world.
Abundant Tree Runs and Ungroomed Terrain
Explore natural terrain for a true adventure
Cortina officially allows tree skiing, letting you glide through beautiful forest lines with an exhilarating sense of freedom. With extensive ungroomed areas, the resort offers a pure powder experience across varied natural terrain.
The Storybook-Like Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba
Ski-in, ski-out luxury with European charm
Right at the base of the slopes, the iconic Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba stands like a European castle. With ski-in, ski-out convenience, you can step off the slopes and straight into hot springs, restaurants, and cozy lounges.
Family-Friendly Facilities
Gentle slopes and kids’ areas for all ages
In addition to its legendary powder runs, Cortina also caters to beginners and families with gentle slopes and dedicated kids’ areas. Rental services and ski schools are readily available, making it a perfect place for a first ski or snowboard trip.
Plan Your Visit
Ticket Information
Operating Season
December 20 - March 31
Weather dependent
Operating Hours
Lifts: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Night Skiing: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Weekends)
Current Prices
1-Day Lift Ticket (Adult)6,200 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Child)3,500 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Senior)6,200 yen
Access Information
Location
By Car
Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Nagano IC→Route19→Hakuba-Nagano Olympic Road→Hakuba Cortina (4hr)
Parking
2,000 spaces
By Train
Tokyo Station→Nagano Station(1hr20min)→Bus(1hr15min)→Hakuba Cortina
Lessons
Lesson in Japanese
Ski Lesson : from 6,000 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 6,000 yen
Lesson in English
Ski Lesson : Private lesson only
Snowboard Lesson : Private lesson only
For private English lessons, please apply through "Evergreen."
More Info →Travel Tips
🚌 Getting There
Tokyo Station→Nagano Station(1hr20min)→Bus(1hr15min)→Hakuba Cortina
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
🎿 Equipment Rental
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥6,250 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥6,250 yen/day
💳 Payment Methods
Credit cards accepted at ticket counters and restaurants.
Cash preferred at some smaller vendors
🌨️ Best Time to Visit
January to February for the best powder conditions.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
Terrain
Course Map
Course Map
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
20%Intermediate
30%Advanced
50%Grooming Status
Groomed
60%Non-groomed
40%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Not Available
Back Country
Available
Lift Facilities
Gondola
0
unitsLifts
4
unitsTERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
20%Intermediate
30%Advanced
50%Grooming Status
Groomed
60%Non-groomed
40%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Not Available
Back Country
Available
Lift Facilities
Gondola
0
unitsLifts
4
unitsPhoto Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about skiing at Hakuba Cortina
What makes Cortina special for powder skiing?
Cortina is famous for its deep powder snow and tree skiing. The resort receives heavy snowfall and offers excellent off-piste opportunities, making it a favorite among advanced skiers and powder enthusiasts.
How do I get to Cortina from Tokyo?
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station (1.5 hours), then take a bus to Cortina (1.5 hours). Alternatively, there are direct buses from Tokyo Station that take about 4-5 hours.
Is Cortina suitable for beginners?
While Cortina is known for its advanced terrain and powder skiing, it does have some beginner-friendly slopes. However, the resort is primarily geared toward intermediate to advanced skiers.
What about accommodation near Cortina?
Cortina has limited on-mountain accommodation, but there are several hotels and ryokans in the nearby Hakuba area. Many visitors stay in Hakuba and take day trips to Cortina.
When is the best time to visit Cortina?
The best time is from late December to early March, with January and February offering the best powder conditions. The resort is known for its consistent snowfall throughout the season.
For more general questions (about money, culture, transport, etc.), please see our main Japan Skiing FAQ page.
View Main FAQ
About Tak
I'm a Tokyo-based snowboarder with more than 20 years on the slopes. As a father of two, I enjoy riding natural terrain and side hits, and I'm passionate about helping international visitors discover the best of Japan's ski resorts. Off the slopes, I love family time, dogs, and soaking in Japanese onsen.