MTB in Hakuba
Hakuba Valley’s name has been around in the skiing world as a big and buzzing resort attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. And guess what? It’s not only famous for arguably the best skiing in Japan, but more recently it has crept up the ladder of highly-rated summer destinations too. Much more than a ski resort, when the sun comes out and the snow is a distant memory, Hakuba is something of a mountain bike magnet.
That’s right, when the temperatures start to soar the skis and snowboards are packed away out come the summer steeds on two wheels because there is a lot more fun to be had in the mountains throughout the summer than there is in a beach resort, topping up your tan by the pool.
Whether you’re rolling old school 26er, 27.5 or the big boys at 29, Hakuba has the terrain to suit. Make your way over to Iwatake Mountain Resort, you’ll soon see there’s something slightly magical about the transformation of the resort once the snow has melted away. No frostbite, no soggy ski jackets – just sun, smiles, and, well, mountain bikes.
Check out more information about Iwatake Mountain Resort
Locals know them as the Minekata Trails but are sign posted as Kikori-no-mori Trails. There is a choice of three and all are supported and well maintained by the Hakuba village. It’s a long ride up the long forest road but thankfully it is shaded from the summer heat. Arriving at the top, give yourself a few minutes to look at the amazing views of the Northern Japanese Alps with the village far below. From the top choose A, B or C or 1, 2 or 3 depending on who you ask. The descents are on singletrack and flow very nicely back down the valley.