Schole Hakuba Reviews

We really loved our stay here for 5 nights in February. Cozy, friendly and a super well organised set up for skiers and boarders (including arrival pick up and drop off from bus stop). We had a 6 person family traditional room for only 2 of us, so lots of space and the ability to sleep on doubled up futons, which was fine for us. Our western frames aren't made for easily getting up and down on the floor, but we made do, and the cozy tatami mats, plus mountain view, table, TV and great heating were totally worth it. The two main draws for here were location and onsen in the building. While not entirely ski out (ski in could work with enough speed and snow conditions), a 2 minute skate-ski and 3 minute road walk put you at the base of the gondola. At the hotel uou could buy a lift card with 1 day on for Iwatake, then top up online each day for any resort (use the number on the front of the card). Huge drying room - the hotel was fully booked and still lots of space, plus warm dry boots every morning! The hot spring bath is kept super clean in great working order and temperature, but this also depends on the other guests (ie leaving things open, not washing first). The indoor and outdoor bathing is chlorinated, but amazing to soak the muscles at the end of a day on the slopes. Five shower stations, enough space for 5+ people per onsen and sauna, but rarely busy. I loved it and it's a definitely a big draw to come back. My only feedback is the women's outdoor onsen is near the boiler and with wind there was a fuel smell. But I could live with that to enjoy snow falling all around while soaking in the lovely hot water. We brought our own food as we're vegan, but those eating with the halfboard package were very complimentary about the food and service. No food to buy onsite, but there is a vending machine with soft drinks, beer and hottish coffee and tea in bottles. If eating out, there are some places about 20 minutes walk in Iwatake Shinde, but you need to book restaurants and taxis early. Great lunch options at the top of the slopes also.