From my in-depth stay at this mountain retreat near Hakuba, I found a comfortable base camp that puts you just 3.5 miles from prime skiing at Tsugaike Kogen. With an impressive guest rating of 8.3 from fellow travelers, this lodge delivers the essentials: free parking, reliable WiFi, and those wonderfully relaxing Japanese baths that soothe tired muscles after a day on the slopes.
The main drawback? You’ll need wheels to reach the ski areas – it’s not a ski-in, ski-out location. Also, the on-site restaurant, while convenient, offers a limited menu that might feel repetitive during longer stays.
This place hits the sweet spot for independent travelers who want a quieter alternative to bustling slope-side accommodations. It’s ideal for ski enthusiasts who don’t mind a short drive to the slopes, and culture buffs who want to mix powder days with visits to nearby Zenkoji Temple. Budget-conscious families and groups will especially appreciate the value, considering the reasonable rates for the Nagano region.
Between winter skiing and summer hiking, there’s enough year-round appeal to make this simple but satisfying retreat worth considering – especially if you’re the kind of traveler who prefers local character over luxury frills.
Good To Know
- Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT by UNPLAN is a hotel located in Nagano, Japan, near the Tsugaike Kogen Ski Area.
- The hotel offers convenient access to both ski slopes and cultural attractions like Nagano Station and Zenkoji Temple.
- Guests can enjoy free parking, WiFi, and on-site amenities such as a Japanese restaurant, continental breakfast, and public bath.
- The hotel’s strategic location allows visitors to experience both winter sports and cultural activities during their stay.
- Guests can savor regional flavors and relax in the cozy lounge atmosphere after outdoor adventures.
Hotel Overview
Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT by UNPLAN is a hotel located in Nagano, Japan, within 3.5 miles of the Tsugaike Kogen Ski Area.
The hotel is rated 8.3 out of 10 based on 82 guest reviews, indicating it’s a very good option.
It’s situated 28 miles from Nagano Station and Zenkoji Temple, and 42 miles from Matsumoto Airport.
With its convenient location, the hotel offers easy access to popular ski areas and cultural attractions in the region.
Convenient Location
The hotel’s location in Nagano, just 3.5 miles from the Tsugaike Kogen Ski Area, makes it a convenient choice for ski enthusiasts.
It’s also within a reasonable driving distance of other popular attractions, like Nagano Station, Zenkoji Temple, and Matsumoto Airport.
Guests can easily access the nearby slopes and then return to the hotel’s cozy amenities.
The hotel’s proximity to the ski area and other regional destinations allows visitors to make the most of their time in Hakuba.
Impressive Amenities
With an impressive array of amenities, Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT caters to the needs of its guests.
The hotel has a range of facilities, including:
- Free parking and WiFi for convenient access and connectivity
- Cozy family rooms and non-smoking options for a comfortable stay
- An on-site Japanese restaurant and continental breakfast choices for delightful dining
- Ski storage and a public bath for après-ski relaxation
- Guest services like baggage storage, a tour desk, and laundry facilities for added convenience.
Whether guests are seeking a relaxing retreat or an active mountain adventure, Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT offers an exceptional experience with its thoughtful and comprehensive amenities.
Delightful Dining Options
Complementing the hotel’s inviting atmosphere, Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT offers delightful dining options to satisfy guests’ culinary preferences.
Guests can enjoy the on-site Japanese restaurant, which serves traditional dishes made with local ingredients. For those seeking a more Western-style breakfast, the hotel provides continental and American breakfast choices.
The complimentary sake, wine, and evening snacks are a welcomed addition, allowing guests to unwind after a day on the slopes.
With a focus on providing a well-rounded dining experience, Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT ensures guests can savor the flavors of the region during their stay.
Exciting Guest Activities
Guests seeking to make the most of their Hakuba retreat can take advantage of the plethora of exciting activities on offer.
Whether it’s carving fresh tracks on the pristine slopes of Tsugaike Kogen Ski Area, embarking on a scenic cycling adventure, or seeing the natural beauty of the surrounding hiking trails, Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT provides easy access to a wide array of outdoor pursuits.
Guests can also indulge in the restorative powers of the on-site public bath or simply unwind in the cozy lounge after a day of exploration.
- Skiing and snowboarding at Tsugaike Kogen Ski Area
- Cycling through the picturesque Hakuba valley
- Hiking in the stunning Japanese Alps
- Relaxing in the hotel’s rejuvenating public bath
- Unwinding in the inviting lounge atmosphere
Exceptional Guest Feedback
Guests have consistently praised Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT for its exceptional standards across various aspects of their stay.
The hotel’s cleanliness and comfort levels have been particularly noteworthy, with an average rating of 8.6 and 8.8, respectively. Guests have also highlighted the friendly and helpful staff, who’ve gone above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.
The complimentary sake, wine, and evening snacks have been a welcome surprise, further adding to the cozy and inviting ambiance of the hotel’s lounge.
Plus, the convenient location near the Iwatake ski area has been a significant draw for guests seeking easy access to the slopes.
Flexible Policies and Rules
Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT offers flexible policies and rules that cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
The hotel’s check-in and check-out times are conveniently scheduled, with check-in from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM.
Children of all ages are welcome, though those 10 and above are charged as adults. Unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed.
Guests can explore flexible cancellation policies based on their accommodation type.
The hotel’s staff is happy to assist with special requests during the booking process, ensuring a seamless and personalized stay.
With these accommodating policies, Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT provides a stress-free experience for all its guests.
- Flexible check-in/check-out times
- Children of all ages welcome
- No pets allowed
- Customizable cancellation policies
- Assistance with special requests
Additional Hotel Information
The Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT caters to a diverse set of guests, with staff that can communicate in both English and Japanese.
Special requests can be accommodated during the booking process, providing guests with a tailored experience.
While the hotel’s upper floors are only accessible via stairs, the free private parking nearby offers convenience for those arriving by car.
Guests can inquire about the property’s accessibility and parking policies when making their reservations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Gym or Fitness Center at the Hotel?
The hotel does not appear to have a dedicated gym or fitness center on-site. However, it does offer outdoor activities like skiing, cycling, and hiking for guests who wish to stay active during their stay.
Can Guests Check-In Early or Check-Out Late?
Guests can’t check in early, as the hotel’s check-in time is from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. However, they can check out late until 11:00 AM, subject to availability and additional fees.
Are There Any Special Offers or Discounts Available?
There don’t appear to be any special offers or discounts mentioned in the information provided. Guests should check the hotel’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any promotions or deals that may be available.
Does the Hotel Provide Any Childcare or Babysitting Services?
The hotel doesn’t offer any dedicated childcare or babysitting services. However, they welcome children of all ages and can accommodate families with larger guest rooms. Guests should inquire about any child-friendly amenities or arrangements during the booking process.
Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Beverages to the Hotel?
Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and beverages to the hotel, though they may not be able to consume them in the on-site restaurant or dining areas. Some hotels may have policies restricting outside food and drink.
The Sum Up
The Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT by UNPLAN offers travelers an exceptional alpine experience. Boasting a prime location, impressive amenities, and delightful dining, the retreat caters to both leisure and adventure-seeking guests. With its welcoming staff, cozy lounge, and spacious accommodations, the hotel provides exceptional value and ensures a memorable stay in Japan’s premier winter wonderland. Flexible policies and exceptional guest feedback further solidify the Square 8 HAKUBA RETREAT as an ideal choice for discerning travelers.