Sunrise Skiing In The Hakuba Valley

You might have heard about the famous night skiing at ski resorts in Japan, but what about sunrise skiing? That’s right, it’s a thing — and you know what they say… the early bird catches the worm! Whether it’s first tracks through fresh powder, pristine piste skiing on freshly groomed corduroy, or sensational alpine views you’re after, rising bright and early for a sunrise ski session might just be the ticket!

The Hakuba Valley is located just a few hours from Tokyo and is home to 10 ski resorts with varied terrain to suit all levels. Quite a few of the resorts offer special early-opening sessions on selected dates throughout the Japan ski season, making this a fantastic destination to experience sunrise skiing. Here’s our rundown of the best resorts in the Hakuba Valley for an early morning session.

Please note: Early opening times, special programmes, and seasonal schedules vary each winter and are subject to change based on weather and snow conditions. We recommend checking each resort’s official website before planning your visit to confirm current-season dates and availability.

Kashimayari Resort

Starting at the south end of the Hakuba Valley, Kashimayari ski resort regularly offers “First Tracks” early-access sessions on weekends and public holidays, giving you the chance to enjoy 30 minutes of skiing before normal lift operations begin — and before the crowds arrive.

Kashimayari is a lesser-known hidden gem in the Hakuba Valley. With varied slopes and spectacular views of the Japan Alps, we highly recommend adding it to your list. Check the Kashimayari official website for current-season early-access dates and times.

Hakuba Iwatake Resort

For an exclusive first-tracks experience at Iwatake Mountain Resort, look out for their VIP S-CLASS offering. This premium service lets you board the gondola before anyone else, getting you first on the mountain. Beyond early access, S-CLASS includes priority parking, priority lift access with no queues, a cloak service, and access to private lounges with complimentary drinks and snacks.

Visit the Iwatake S-CLASS page for the latest pricing and booking information.

Hakuba Sanosaka Resort

For super early birds keen to catch a truly spectacular sunrise on skis, head to the small but magical Hakuba Sanosaka. Sanosaka regularly offers sunrise skiing sessions on designated dates throughout the season, with lifts firing up well before normal operating hours. The effort is well worth it — you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of Lake Aokiko below and the glow of Japan’s famous rising sun. Truly mesmerising!

Check Sanosaka’s official website for current-season sunrise skiing dates and start times.

Photos by Hakuba Sanosaka Resort

Tsugaike Mountain Resort

Tsugaike Mountain Resort also offers early-opening sessions on certain designated dates during the winter season, alongside its well-known night skiing programme. Tsugaike boasts some of the most impressive alpine views in the Hakuba Valley, and the resort is well worth the early morning effort for first tracks and breathtaking scenery.

Visit the Tsugaike official website for up-to-date information on early-opening dates each season.

Photos by Tsugaike Information

Written by

Sarah Mulholland

Hakuba Area Manager

Having spent 21 winters skiing in Hakuba, Sarah is passionate about deep powder and Japanese culture. With vast local knowledge and experience of Hakuba accommodation, Sarah joined JSE in 2012 and manages Hakuba accommodation bookings.

Read more by Sarah Mulholland

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