There’s more to explore at Happo-One Resort this winter. Six new areas are planned for the 2026–27 season, bringing new options for beginners, families and advanced riders.
For families, the most exciting change is at Usagidaira – this is the area at the top of the gondola – the covered magic carpet—that distinctive tube-shaped conveyor lift—is moving there. It means beginners can enjoy the mountain views while finding their feet, with the higher location offering the potential for an earlier start and a later finish to the season. (March is particularly a great time to come as weather is sunnier and temperatures are just a bit warmer).
Usagidaira Bunny Area: Learn with a View
Learning to ski is a memorable part of a Hakuba holiday. Being able to do it with incredible views around you makes it even better. You get great views down to Hakuba village.
The new Usagidaira Bunny Area gives beginners a dedicated practice space higher on the mountain. The covered magic carpet carries learners uphill, making repeat practice easier without having to tackle a chairlift straight away. This is exactly the spot our kids were at when they were just starting off on skis.
Its location is the big attraction. Moving the carpet uphill should give it a longer window of use than a lower village slope, where snow can arrive later and disappear earlier. For families considering an early-season holiday or a spring visit, that could make a real difference.
It also means the least experienced members of your group can enjoy the scenery from the gondola’s upper station. You don’t have to be a confident skier to feel part of a mountain holiday.
Exact opening dates and daily availability will depend on snow, weather and resort operations, but the top of Happo-One Resort is usually the first to open in December (sometimes November) and the last to close in May.
First Tree Runs and Playful Terrain
The new areas offer something to work towards as confidence grows.
Sakka Trees Adventure is aimed at beginner and intermediate riders trying tree skiing. For families whose children are ready for a new challenge, it could become a favourite part of the day.
Panorama Flow introduces banks and jumps for beginner and intermediate riders. Think of it as a chance to explore a different rhythm on the snow, rather than simply repeating the same turns.
More for Experienced Skiers, Too
Skyline Trees and Sodeguro Trees add tree terrain aimed at intermediate and advanced riders.
These give more experienced members of your group something new to explore while others focus on lessons or beginner practice. Follow the resort’s marked boundaries and opening information.
Snow Fun Without Skis
Not everyone wants to ski every day. Many of our guests just want to experience snow for the first time. The new Nakiyama Snow Land is designed for snow activities without needing skis or a snowboard. It adds another option for families with different interests—or anyone looking for a break from skiing. A good winter holiday leaves room for those slower days, too.
Tickets and Area Charges
Sakka Trees Adventure, Panorama Flow, Skyline Trees and Sodeguro Trees are included with a lift ticket. Usagidaira Bunny Area and Nakiyama Snow Land have separate charges, which aren’t listed in the announcement. An early-bird adult two-day lift ticket costs ¥16,600, available online until 30 November 2026, for foreign guests.
Check the official Happo-One announcement for ticket conditions and updates.
Make Hakuba Your Winter Base
These additions give families more ways to enjoy Happo-One together, from first turns beside the covered carpet to new adventures among the trees.
At Hakuba White Fox, we’re especially looking forward to seeing beginners enjoy Usagidaira’s views—and the possibility of making better use of that magic carpet at both ends of winter.
Explore our Hakuba chalets and holiday homes and start planning your stay.
