Whether you like fat tyres or skinny ones, the Hakuba Valley has plenty of opportunites for two wheeled adventures or just a lazy ride around the streets. The valley is bike friendly, so either bring your own or rent, grab a map and away you go.
Minekata Trails
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 forest road but you are rewarded with beautiful scenic views along the way. 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.
Hakuba 47 Ski Resort
Ride the gondola to the middle section of Hakuba 47. From here there is a chair lift to keep you going throughout the day. Enjoy fours trails from beginners to advanced. Bike rental is available at the base area.
The Three Lakes
At the southern end of the valley in neighboring Omachi, you will find the three laskes of Lake Aokiko, Lake Nakatsuna and Lake Kizakiko. The road out of Hakuba has a little climb that will get the heart rate up, after that is a sweet ride around the lakes. Be careful on the northern side of lake Aokiko, the road becomes narrow with some light traffic coming the other way. The course is about 40km long.
Tsugaike Nature Park
This route is not for beginners. The route starts out at Hakuba-Oike station on route 148. It is a grueling 9 percent grade road climb and is popular for cycling die-hards. The route is 17km up and then a free wheeling 17km down. The pros can do it in under one hour, but realistically give yourself at least two or more! You can experience a guided MTB or cycling tour of what the Hakuba valley has to offer. Guided rides are perfect for those who may be new to the sport or who are interested in getting the lay of the land from a local professional. Hakuba Connect recommends Sweetriders www.sweetriders.com. Detailed maps of the trails and terrain can be picked up at the local tourist offices.
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