The Ridge Hakuba is a fantastic, modern hotel and apartment complex in a prime location. It’s a luxurious accommodation option in Hakuba.
Located in ‘Lower Wadano’, the Ridge is about a five-minute walk from the ski slopes and has a small selection of bars and restaurants within a short walking distance. It’s on a large block of land surrounded by woodlands, so it feels secluded and peaceful.
The building was originally built for the Japanese Imperial Family to use during the 1998 Winter Olympics – and it’s clear that they chose the best spot. After a stint as the Hakuba Hana Hotel, a group of Australians eventually bought it and transformed the place into the luxurious and modern hotel it is today.
In terms of the hotel rooms, there are a good range of options available – including kings, twins, triples and combination rooms. The only thing they don’t really offer is cooking appliances – although they do all have tea and coffee making facilities, as well as fridges.
Alternatively, if you need a bit more space and full self-catering facilities, the studios and apartments are great. All of them are furnished in a Westernized style with a Japanese influence of Soji Doors (Japanese screens) and they’re all spacious – even the studios have generous living areas, and all have full kitchens.
And if you are looking to be truly spoilt, opt for a Penthouse room – with floor-to-ceiling windows that boast 270 degree mountain and forest views. The penthouse also has a spa bath in the bathroom.
There are a ton of inclusions at The Ridge as well as some handy facilities. Firstly, the rate includes breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, Antlers, at which we’ve heard you can even obtain Vegemite. Secondly, the hotel offers daily transfers to supermarkets and restaurants (as well as bus station pick ups and drop offs). Thirdly, there are DVDs, books and magazines available to loan; a kids’ games room; ski lockers and a drying room; a daily maid service, and communal washers and dryers. Meanwhile, rooms have king beds that can be split into twins, making this hotel handy for those travelling with kids or groups of friends.
And to top it all off, the service here is great. Mostly staffed by a team of Westerners, the staff are friendly and efficient, and will happily make all sorts of bookings and recommendations. A stay at The Ridge Hakuba will not only be luxurious, it will be easy and relaxing.
