Sansui-so

I found it a simple, older hostel, but an affordable place to base myself for a week on the slopes. It's directly beside the runs, with easy access to Norikura and Cortina, and you can buy the Norikura/Cortina lift pass right there. The fun staff know what's happening around Hakuba and can suggest activities and social events. I also recommend Cosmo Rentals up the road for good gear deals. It was a good January stay for a week of skiing, and quite affordable compared with typical Hakuba hostel prices in ski season. The backpackers' place is well equipped, with a good kitchen, a big lounge, and strong heaters. I never felt cold. There's only one regular shower, since it mostly uses Japanese-style onsens. There's not much in this part of Hakuba, so you'll need a bus to nearby villages for convenience stores or more dinner choices. I'd recommend doing a grocery run. Staff sometimes drive out for groceries, and guests can join if it works out. Otherwise, the bus stop is at the bottom of the street.

Bring a good stock of groceries so you don't have to get back into Happo. There's a bus, and you can sometimes arrange a ride with the backpackers, but it's easier to plan ahead. There are good meals on the mountains and at the Restaurant/ Bar connected to the backpackers, and a really nice onsen down the road. We loved staying here. The rooms were comfortable, and for the price, the access to two resorts and the ability to cook your own food were excellent value. The skiing location is great, just 50 steps from the front door to a lift. The staff made us feel like family, so friendly and welcoming, and the whole place had a relaxed, warm atmosphere. We'd definitely recommend it and would love to come back. Thank you Ali, Macca, Takeshi, Kayoko and Tama.

Great location, lovely people. Had a wonderful time and would recommend staying here.

Really friendly staff!