Zenrinso

There are plenty of rooms, so Zenrinso seems ideal for a large group. I stayed for two nights and three days, and everything impressed me, from the interior and exterior to the facilities and equipment. There are lots of newer places to stay now, but I’m glad I chose Zenrinso. I’d definitely stay here again when I’m in Hakuba.

I go to Hakuba to snowboard at least five times each season and usually book places around 5,000 yen. This time I tried a luxury villa, a whole different league from my usual stays. It was a gorgeous space, but what surprised me most was how warm it was. The full-wall window looked out over the snow, and the living room had a high ceiling, yet the good insulation and airtight fixtures, plus underfloor heating, kept it cozy. It even got almost too hot. You really don’t expect that level of comfort in Hakuba in winter. Every bedroom has its own shower or bath, so there’s no waiting around like at villas with only one. Still, when I’m in Hakuba I’ll be going to the hot springs. The kitchen had all the cooking tools, there was a washer-dryer, and the bedding was top-notch. I couldn’t think of anything that was missing. It might be more comfortable than my own home. For someone who skis often like me, the usual approach is a cheap inn and meals in Echoland, but it was nice to try a luxury stay for once. Outside peak season, or with up to 14 people, the per-person cost is more reasonable. With 14 people it can be hard to get a restaurant table, so cooking together at the villa sounds fun, with lots of ways to enjoy the stay. I’d like to work this into future Hakuba trips when I can. One useful detail about getting there: Google Maps sends you toward the Happo ski slopes, but there’s no access from that side. Enter from the Wadano Forest side instead. Take the alley to the right of Hakuba Grand Apartments, then go around its north side. Setting your navigation to Hakuba Grand Apartments is recommended. The private road in Wadano no Mori isn’t plowed, so it gets bumpy after snow, but you can manage if you drive slowly.

I stayed at Zenrinso with 14 friends in February, and I’d definitely come back to this luxury resort condo. It had just opened in January 2023. The stylish, chic interior, open living and dining space, island kitchen, big sofa, and fireplace made me want to stay inside from the moment we arrived. Snowy views from the big windows and balcony were beautiful, too. It would be a great choice for an unusual workcation. There are six bedrooms and room for up to 14 guests, with ski resorts, hot springs, and saunas nearby for enjoying Hakuba.

The Asian-inspired dishes and decorations had so much attention to detail, and made each day enjoyable. I loved the balance of a refined look with a homey feel. It’s a great spot for snowboarding, too, just a five-minute walk from Happo-one Ski Resort. This was my first visit, and it was the most comfortable villa I’ve ever stayed in. I’ll definitely be back.