AusLeisure

Japanese ski resort Hakuba Valley has announced a long-term alliance with leading global mountain resort operator Vail Resorts.

Beginning with the 2018/19 snow season, the alliance will see holders of Vail’s Epic Pass, Epic Local Pass and Epic Australia Pass gain access at the nine ski resorts that comprise Hakuba Valley over five consecutive complimentary days.

The link brings the Epic Pass total to 55 mountain resorts in eight countries, significantly more than any other season pass in the world.

Announcing the partnership, Kirsten Lynch, Chief Marketing Officer of Colorado, USA-based Vail Resorts, advised “we’re excited to announce a long-term alliance between Vail Resorts and Hakuba Valley, creating an unparalleled connection between the best resorts in Japan, Australia and North America for Epic Pass, Epic Australia Pass and Epic Local Pass holders.

“Our adventure-seeking season pass holders in all 50 U.S. states and more than 100 countries around the world thrive on the variety of world class ski and snowboard experiences and unmatched value that the Epic Pass products offer and now they have access to the endless powder and incredible guest experience at Hakuba Valley.”

Hikaru Takanashi, Chairman of Hakuba Valley Promotion Board, added “we are pleased to include Hakuba Valley among the world-class mountain resorts that offer the highest standards in skiing and snowboarding on the Epic Pass for skiers and snowboarders.

“Hakuba Valley is considered the heart and soul of skiing in Japan, with its natural beauty, vast ski terrain and plentiful snow. We welcome skiers and snowboarders from around the world to experience our renowned hospitality.”

Hakuba Valley features nine resorts, including Jiigatake Snow Resort, Kashimayari Ski Resort, Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort, Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park, Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort, Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field, Tsugaike Kogen Snow Resort, Hakuba Norikura Onsen Snow Resort, and Hakuba Cortina Snow Resort. The resorts are united with a common lift pass and offer all levels of ski and snowboard terrain with more than 130 trails and some of the longest vertical skiing in Japan, 102 lifts and abundant snowfall averaging 32 feet a season. Off the slopes, Hakuba features a vast array of dining options and lively après scene, including dozens of ‘izakaya’ or traditional Japanese pubs, numerous ‘onsen’ or natural mineral hot springs, and other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, Nordic skiing and back country skiing.

For more information go to www.hakubavalley.com

Images of Hakuba Valley courtesy of Liquid Snow Tours (top) and Hakuba Valley Promotion Board (below).

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