Dining in Echoland

From traditional Japanese Izakayas to Western-style pubs, Echoland has something for everyone. New restaurants are always popping up in the neighborhood, keeping things fresh and exciting.

Miyama Genghis Khan

Miyama Genghis Khan offers only the finest-quality lamb expertly prepared in the traditional Yakiniku style. Many of the meats are fresh, never frozen, and exceptionally delicious. For the best flavor, we recommend cooking the lamb to medium-rare perfection.

Izakaya Hie

Hie is a classic Izakaya-style n this Hakuba restaurant guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Hakuba, highlighting luxury dining options, hidden gems, and other delightful dining experiences that offers an extensive array of dishes to satisfy your craving for authentic Japanese cuisine. From exquisite sashimi to delicious yakitori, every dish at Hie is of the highest quality.

Takahashi-ke Ramen

The perfect way to end a day on the slopes is with a steaming bowl of flavorful ramen at Takahashi-ke. In addition to their renowned ramen, they offer delicious gyoza and char-siu. Try the “paitan” ramen, a local favorite, or personalize your dish with a soy sauce broth option for an added twist.

Sarugaku

Sarugaku offers regional “Shinshu” cuisine. The traditional Japanese menu features tempura, sashimi, grilled fish, and delightful Japanese tapas.

Dining in Mizuho

Mizuho is situated east of Echoland. It offers a delightful area for leisurely strolls and a pleasantly tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for families.

Zen

Zen specializes in locally made soba or buckwheat noodles. The restaurant offers a blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese tapas, perfectly paired with a curated selection of local sakes and shochu.

Koubo-Nikki

Koubo-Nikki bakery offers a selection of breads. The talented owner and baker cultivate natural yeasts from various sources to create her signature bread. Make sure to visit early, as many of her delicious creations sell out quickly in the morning!

Jing Hua

This Singaporean restaurant excels at dumplings. The Xiao Long Bao is a standout favorite. Pair it with their house black vinegar and pickled garlic for an unforgettable experience—you won’t be disappointed!

Nonjae

This Izakaya boasts an extensive dinner menu that caters to everyone’s preferences. With 150 seats, Nonjae is an excellent choice for accommodating large groups.

Dining in Happo

Happo boasts a selection of restaurants throughout the area, offering everything from Japanese and Thai cuisine to craft beer bars and more.

Issei “Neo” Shokudo

Happo’s culinary gem, Issei, is an elegant restaurant specializing in tonkatsu and soba. Its sleek, contemporary interior beautifully showcases Japanese decor. It’s a beloved choice among White Fox patrons.

Sharaku

Sharaku blends traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, serving some of Hakuba’s finest sushi, sashimi, and Izakaya dishes. The knowledgeable floor staff will guide you through their carefully curated sake selection to ensure your selection complements your meal.

Blizzard

Blizzard’s Italian cuisine will satisfy your pasta craving. Each meal is perfectly prepared, from delectable cheese platters and prosciutto to pasta. Their signature wood-fired pizza is a customer favorite. Blizzard is also a fantastic venue for late-night drinks, featuring a top-notch sound system and regular DJs.

Hakuba Taproom

With ten beers on tap, The taproom offers specialty craft brews sourced from local Japanese breweries. The menu highlights include premium steak, slow-cooked beef, and Hakuba pork belly. Enjoy live acoustic music and catch sports on the big screens; families are always welcome.

Shirouma-So

Shirouma-So is a hidden gem in Hakuba, nestled within a traditional Ryokan-style hotel. Run by a former winner of the prestigious “Best GM in the World” award, this restaurant boasts a rich history spanning generations.

Hifumi

Savor premium Wagyu beef and the freshest sashimi sourced from the Sea of Japan, all presented with exceptional attention to detail.

Thaifoon Cafe

In the heart of Happo, Thaifoon Cafe offers authentic Thai cuisine. Dishes rich in aromatic flavors with an irresistible spicy kick ensure something to satisfy every palate.

Bernd’s Keller

This German-themed restaurant and bar, located at the base of Happo’s Nakiyama slope, offers live music and a delightful menu. With sausages, beers, and an array of meats, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere.

Dining in Misorano & Meitetsu

Surrounded by woodland, Misorna and Meitetsu are a quiet retreat with various dining options.

Meteor Dining

Hakuba METEOR Pension & Log Hotel restaurant prides itself on sourcing the majority of its ingredients from the local Shinshu region. It offers one of Hakuba’s finest homemade dining experiences.

Nikumasa

Nikumasa is a local favorite, offering high-quality meats at an affordable price. Begin your meal with a delightful burrata, then select from various steaks for your main course. A tempting assortment of delicious sauces complements the steaks perfectly.

Prairie Restaurant

Prairie is a charming family-owned restaurant with a delightful European-style menu and a selection of beers, wines, and coffee. The cozy interior, complete with a welcoming fireplace, is warm and comforting. Don’t miss out on their exquisite desserts, which are truly divine.

Denenshi

Enjoy a fine dining experience in a Japanese home setting. Choose between their “Western” or “Japanese” course—both are outstanding. Sit back, relax, and relish the friendly environment the lovely husband-and-wife team has created.

Dining in Wadano

At the Northern base of Happo-One resort, Wadano is a prime dining area.

Mimi’s

In the Phoenix Hotel, Mimi’s Restaurant offers contemporary interpretations of European cuisine matched with iconic wines. Executive Chef Kazuyuki Shimamoto is unrivaled in enhancing the unique flavors of local produce, appealing to a modern and sophisticated palate.

Manyo

Manyo is one of the few restaurants in Hakuba that offers “Kaiseki” cuisine—a full-fledged traditional Japanese course meal. Located in the Tokyu Hotel, it uses local and seasonal ingredients and offers top-notch service and quality food.

Luce

Luce is a dining bar and cafe specializing in Wagyu Beef. Luce is located at the base of the Happo Kokusai slope, perfect for an après-ski meal. Try their pancakes for breakfast, pulled pork burgers for lunch, or a wide variety of dishes for dinner.

The Rabbit Hole

The Rabbit Hole is conveniently located at the base of Happo One Ski Resort, 50m from the Sakka Quad lift. It Features AllPress coffee and mouth-watering burgers, making it the perfect stop to refuel after a long day on the hill.

Luxury Dining in Hakuba

For those seeking a truly wonderful dining experience, Hakuba Valley offers several luxury dining options that promise to impress.

Treaumerei

One standout is Traumerei, a top-rated restaurant located in an old manor in Misorano. Here, you can indulge in amazing French cuisine while soaking in the beautiful atmosphere, making it perfect for a special meal.

Vive

Vive’s chef Shingo Suzuki is an exceptionally skilled chef with six years of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy. He masterfully fuses diverse flavors and culinary styles, drawing inspiration from premium Japanese ingredients while incorporating local produce from Hakuba. His creations are unique and elegant, blending traditional Japanese tastes with contemporary cooking techniques.

Hidden Gems in Hakuba

Hakuba Valley is also home to several hidden gems that offer unique and delightful dining experiences. Enchante is a treasure serving local Japanese food with a subtle French twist. This understated restaurant is perfect for those who enjoy excellent cuisine in a relaxed setting. Another hidden gem is Marutama, a new ramen shop in Echoland that has quickly gained a reputation for its deep, full-flavored broths and generous portion sizes. These hidden gems provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the diverse culinary landscape of Hakuba Valley.

Cafes and Bakeries

Hakuba Valley’s cafes and bakeries are perfect for those looking to casually enjoy great coffee, pastries, and light meals. Sounds Like Cafe is renowned for its Aussie-style breakfast and lunch options, paired with expertly crafted lattes. Mon Pigeon delights with its mouth-watering pastries and rich espresso coffee, making it a must-visit for coffee lovers. Penguin Café offers home-roasted coffee and special thick-sliced hot sandwiches, providing a unique and satisfying dining experience. With its handmade ice cream and desserts, Prairie Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for a sweet treat. Hana Emi cafe in Shinden is known for its Japanese Western Fusion, which is reasonably priced and extensive.

Conclusion

Hakuba Valley is a haven for food lovers, with endless dining options for every taste and budget. From luxurious fine dining experiences to cozy cafes and bakeries, the valley offers something for everyone. The local ski resorts also have their selection of restaurants, serving up hearty meals and warming drinks after a day on the slopes. Try regional specialties like soba noodles, oyaki dumplings, and sake while exploring all that Hakuba offers. With its picturesque surroundings and diverse culinary scene, Hakuba Valley is a paradise for foodies. So come hungry and leave satisfied as you indulge in the delicious offerings of this beautiful valley in Japan.

FAQ

What are some must-visit cafes and bakeries in Hakuba Valley?

Some popular options include Sounds Like Cafe, Mon Pigeon, Penguin Café, Prairie Restaurant, and Hana Emi Cafe.

Are there any local specialties to try while visiting Hakuba Valley?

Some regional delicacies include soba noodles, oyaki dumplings, and sake.

Are there any dining options at the ski resorts in Hakuba Valley?

Yes, most ski resorts have a selection of restaurants that serve hearty meals and warming drinks after a day on the slopes. These are great places to refuel and relax before hitting the slopes again.