Sure, Hakuba’s snow gets all the hype, but when visiting the Land of the Rising Sun, it would be a mistake not to give its unique culture your undivided attention. Like many parts of the Far East, Hakuba, Japan, can feel unfamiliar (and therefore a little scary) at first, but remember, part of the fun of traveling is exploring the culture and customs of a new place. Once the powder frenzy settles, take some time to learn a new culinary specialty, view the native wildlife or buff up on the local ski history. Here are five cultural experiences that bring the valley’s heritage into focus.
Make Your Own Incense
Step into the world of natural Japanese incense by blending traditional ingredients—like sandalwood, clove and cinnamon—selected by a Kohji (incense specialist). You’ll fill a small wooden ball or gourd-shaped vessel, an old Japanese way of carrying calming fragrances, and wrap it in a patterned cloth linked to local symbols and seasons. Make sure to pick up a scent-releasing pouch or incense doll, which slowly diffuses fragrance through its fabric and offers a small, everyday reminder of Hakuba’s temple culture.
Paint Your Own Japanese Calligraphy
Instead of using snow as your canvas and skis as your brush, grab an actual brush and ink to paint your own Japanese Calligraphy with a local teacher. This hands-on cultural experience teaches you the basics of a writing technique that is over a thousand years old. In the class you will use a traditional brush and ink, but most importantly you will need to learn the correct posture, brush handling, and stroke techniques to practice kanji. You can choose your favorite kanji to create a finished piece to take home. If you really want to make it personal, the teacher can help you write your name in kanji and explain the meaning behind the characters.
Visit Zenkoji Temple and the Snow Monkeys
Take a day trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild snow monkeys have lived in these mountains for generations, posing along the steaming riverbanks like fur-covered philosophers. After that, explore Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist sites. Founded in the 7th century, it remains one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites and a spiritual anchor for the entire Nagano region.
Powder days are easy to love, but the culture of Hakuba will add depth to your visit. Do yourself a favor, spend a little time off the slopes and you’ll walk away with lasting experiences that add a personal touch to a memorable trip.
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