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New Gondola Lift coming to Hakuba

By Lindsay Colbert|Updated 18 June 2026

Iwatake Resort in Hakuba, Japan, is embarking on a significant redevelopment project to solidify its position as a world-class, all-season mountain resort, while aiming for sustainable goals that can benefit both visitors and the local community. The resort has partnered with major Japanese developers, Mitsubishi Estate and Shimizu Corporation, with plans to develop an international, high-grade hotel in its base area, as well as renovating the ski center that includes a lobby, ticket office, shops, rental facilities, restaurants, and a ski/snowboard school.

Most excitingly, this premier ski and snowboard destination is also set to welcome a new gondola lift on December 20, 2024. This modern upgrade promises to enhance the visitor experience with better comfort and improved access up the mountain. It features spacious cabins that can accommodate up to 10 passengers each, offering ample space for gear and beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountain landscape. With a smoother ride and faster travel times, the journey to the summit will be streamlined.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Iwatake Mountain Resort offers a variety of activities to cater to visitors of all ages and interests. The most appealing draw is the popular Hakuba Mountain Harbour, a terrace offering visitors uninterrupted panoramic alpine views of the Hakuba and Japan Alps mountain range. Mountain Harbor is also home to The City Bakery, where you can relax and soak up the views with a hot drink and delicious freshly baked items. A Hakuba experience not to be missed! From kids snow play zones and a Yoo-Hoo Swing, to snow adventures by caterpillar buggy and snowshoeing, the resort provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this stunning alpine landscape.

To celebrate the opening of the new gondola, Iwatake Resort is offering an early bird season pass with exclusive benefits, including discounts on food, rentals, and lift tickets. Moreover, the resort is participating in a kid’s program by Nippon Ski Resort Development, which provides free season passes for local children to encourage families to hit the slopes together!

With its updated infrastructure, luxury amenities, and scenic location, Iwatake Resort is an excellent choice for winter enthusiasts looking for Hakuba accommodation.

Sources (in Japanese):

PR Times – First time in 38 years, new gondola at Iwatake Resort sets to open on December 20, 2024

PR Times – Iwatake Resort begins full-scale redevelopment at base, aiming to become a sustainable, world-class mountain resort

Written by

Lindsay Colbert

Managing Director

An avid skier, Lindsay spent 5 fantastic seasons skiing resorts across Japan, both on the mainland and in Hokkaido, before founding Japan Ski Experience in 2007. Lindsay’s main focus is improving client experiences year on year to take JSE from strength to strength.

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