Hakuba, the gateway to Japan’s Northern Alps, is Japan’s all year round adventure destination. Whether its skiing in the winter (Dec �EMar) or hiking, rafting, caoeing the remainder of the year (Apr �ENov), Hakuba is a vast playground for all ages and interests. You do not need to be an outdoor manic to enjoy your stay in Hakuba. Using Hakuba as a base, it is possible to visit some of the many cultural and natural sites in the surrounding areas around Nagano Prefecture. Among some of these places of interest include:

o Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route (mid April �Emid November) is a 90km route that connects Toyama with Shinano-omachi in Nagano prefecture. It is divided into nine sections running along incredible scenic paths using a variety of different transport. This is one of the few places in the world where you will see 18 metre high snow walls, known as the Snow Corridors of Toyama. During this season, you will journey out for one day using cable cars, local trains, and other public transport. You will be provided with a return ticket as far as Muroda, which for most people is far enough. Along this journey you can see Japan’s higest dam, the Kurobe Dam standing at 186m, also one of the highest in the world.

o Matsumoto (all year round), is a castle town one hour south of Hakuba village. The six story castle, built at the end of the 16th century, is the oldest of the major castles of the Samurai era still standing and is a designated National Treasure. A short distance from Matsumoto are wineries and local Wasabi (Japanese hot green mustard) farms. Local farmers use pure mountain waters to grow the best wasabi in Japan.

o Nagano City (all year round) welcomes visitors from all over the world, including the Japanese themselves, to visit Zenkoji Temple. Built in 642, Zenkoji is one of the largest buddhist temple complexes still active in Japan today. Within the walls of the temple resides one of the first images of the Buddha brought to Japan. If you descend to the inner chamber beneath the alter, you can touch the ‘Key to Salvation�E allowing you entrance to heaven!

o Togakushi Village (all year round) located 30 minutes by bus from Nagano city is almost like taking a step back in time. This quaint mountain village is known for its traditional woven crafts, delicious soba noodles, Ninja history and ancient mountain shrines. Season permitting you can visit a real Ninja training ground and museum.

o Jigokudani (Hell Valley or Snow Monkeys) (all year round) invites you to get up close and personal with the wild monkeys who live around a natural hot spring. Bring your camera as the monkeys pay no heed to visitors while they soak and play in and around the steaming water.

o SKI or SNOW BOARD (December - late March) As one of the host areas for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, Hakuba has world class skiing and snowboarding on 12 resorts spread across gigantic mountain ranges. The incredible variety of runs provide skiiers of any ability room to improve. Powder lovers are also in for a treat. The 3000m peaks and the prevailing winter weather pattern ensure that fresh snow is frequent and plentiful. For the more adventurous type you have the option to explore the valley using cross country skis with local English speaking tour leaders. Lessons, ski/snowboard rental including wear are easily available to rent. English language instructors are readily available (advance booking recommended) to get you started for the season. An All Mountain 3 Day Pass will be included in your pack but if you wish to extend your stay in Nagano, ask your travel advisor.

Depending on your interests, we will put together a suitable plan for you. For the remaining schedule of this tour, see The Golden Route which covers Tokyo, Kyoto and Hakone/Mt Fuji.

Standard Hotels
(2* & 3* mix)

TOKYO (2) : The B Akasaka (Western Style)
HAKUBA (4) Terry's Sport Hotel (Lodge Style)
KYOTO (3) Hotel Sunroute (Western Style)
HAKONE (2) Hakone Ichinoyu Ryokan (Japanese Style)
TOKYO (2) Shinagawa Prince (Western Style)

TOKYO (2) : Keio Plaza Hotel (Western Style)
HAKUBA (4) : Hakuba Mominoki (Western/Japanese Style)
KYOTO (3) Hotel Granvia Kyoto (Western Style)
HAKONE (2) Okuyumoto Ryokan (Japanese Style)
TOKYO (2) Keio Plaza Hotel, Shinjuku (Western Style)

• Narita Airport Meet & Greet on arrival
• Airport Transfer Tickets (arrival & departure dates)
• 13 nights accommodation at selected hotels
• Meals: 13 breakfast, 4 dinners
• Suica Subway Card
• 7 Day Japan Rail Pass
• Kyoto Morning Tour including English speaking guide & entrance fees
• Hakuba 3 Day All Mountain Ski Lift Pass* (over 200 runs to choose from)
• Kurobe Alpine Route Pass**
  
• Japan Ireland Travel Essential Travel Pack