Bread and butter, salt and pepper, wine and cheese, skiing and après – some pairings just make so much sense together that they almost feel unnatural to enjoy them any other way.
So when you’re cruising in Hakuba this winter and looking for that perfect post-shred après spot (naturally), we wanted you to be loaded up with sick recommendations of Hakuba’s best nightlife destinations – because nothing kills your buzz like spending time on Google Maps trying to find the next bar.
But we didn’t want to just google ‘Hakuba bars’ and hit you with the same stock-standard recommendations, we wanted to ask those who know the area the best. And who knows Hakuba’s bars better than anyone? Rhythm crew, of course.
If you’ve ever visited a bar around any of Japan’s major ski resorts, you’ve probably encountered a few (or a fair few) Rhythm employees enjoying their post work bevs. If you haven’t, here’s where you’ll be likely find ‘em:
Speed up your journey:
Rhythm’s Picks For Echoland’s Best Bars
Five years ago, if you wanted a quieter Hakuba experience, Echoland would have been your best bet. Now, the area has transformed into a nightlife mecca closely rivaling Happo-One.
From quiet eateries to thumping drum n bass venues, Echoland truly offers up everything you could ever need-–no matter what style of traveller you are.
Calico
“I love Calico because they have happy hour everyday between 3-4, which is perfect timing for after work drinks. I love gathering a big group and having heaps of cocktails piled on the table while everyone plays cards or chats for hours! It’s the perfect spot to kick start pre’s for any event.” – Leah, Rhythm Wadano
“Calico has definitely become a standout for me—it’s been the backdrop to countless good times, and the vibes are always spot on. The staff are legends and make you feel like part of the crew, making it feel like a true slice of Australia in Hakuba.
Their 2-for-1 happy hour after a sunny day on the slopes is easily the best après in town, giving you that classic afternoon bevvy vibe you’d get back home. And finishing off with a double smash patty burger? Pure gold.” – Olivia, Guest Services
Mockingbird
“This is my 6th season in Hakuba, I live in Echoland and this my routine night out!
I start at Calico for Happy hour, then make my way to Mockingbird for a few games of pool with Ken-san (owner), after that I make my way down to Holy Smokes and then sing my heart out at Masksorika (karaoke bar)
Some nights if I’m feeling adventurous and I’ll venture out in Happo and end the night at Sugar.” – Nobu, Sales
“It’s only my first season in Hakuba but so far I’ve really enjoyed Mockingbird for it’s cosy and social atmosphere, and of course for the Ken specials. It’s also close to where I live so that’s a big bonus.” – Aiden, Marketing
Rhythm’s Picks For Happo-One’s Best Bars
If après is more your scene than skiing, there’s no where better to stay than Happo-One! Hakuba’s main F&B district, Happo offers up every style of nightlife destination you could ever hope for. The perfect place to start off your day with an Irish Coffee, before finishing up with après, dinner, post dinner après, and then a post-post dinner aprè nightcap.
Refuel
“Favourite go-to spot in town is definitely Bar Refuel in the centre of Happo. Awesome local bartenders, epic dirty burgers and plenty of drinks. Also if you find yourself doing shots and smashing out some karaoke to the crowd at Matsurika in Echoland you know it’s been a very good night.” – Ross, Merchandise
Note for all non-Aussies out there: a ‘dirty’ burger is a good thing. It means a juicy burger loaded with all the good!
Bar Cross
“A punk/rock ‘n’ roll style bar that also offers up CRT TVs equipped with Nintendo 64’s and Mario Kart? How can Bar Cross not be your go-to spot?” – Alex, Marketing
Hakuba Aprè
“One of my favourite bars/scenes is Hakuba Aprè at the bottom of the Happo Nakiyama slope because you just come off the hill you having a great time with your mates your freezing cold and you just want to have a drink around a warm fire it’s a cosy vibe and a good place to chill after a big day of riding!” – Amber, Rhythm Summit
Rhythm’s Picks For Wadano’s Best Bars
While slightly removed from the hub of the Happo precinct, we chose to situate our first Rhythm Hakuba store in Wadano for a reason! Wadano has heaps on offer, from high end cocktail bars to westernized eating options and low key pubs, making it the perfect option for older crew wanting a night out on the town without all the hustle and bustle of the seasonal crowd.
So if you’ve picked up your set of rentals and want to grab a cheeky pint before heading back to your accommodation, here’s where Rhythm crew recommends:
Rabbit Hole
“I now live in Omachi but when I was living in Hakuba I used to love going to Rabbit Hole, located a bit up the mountain in Wadano area. I used to go there often with my housemates because it was close to where I used to live and their nachos are absolutely delicious. They often have nice live music nights and downstairs has a piano and pool table where it really feels like a private room.” – Kazue, Rhythm and Beans
Penke Bar
“Penke bar does it all, hosts some of the coolest alternate events, there’s a night for everyone. Whether it’s an afternoon beverage on the deck, delicious dinner, hottest 100 party, rail jam, or night time boogie, you can always count on these guys for a good time.” – Mel, Rhythm Wadano Rental Manager
Rhythm’s Picks For The Best Bars in Tsugaike
While Tsugaike is known as one of Hakuba’s best kept secrets when it comes to terrain and pow, it’s certainly not known for its hustling nightlife. That being said, there are some awesome spots to stop in for a nightcap if you’re inclined to go exploring!
“If you find yourself in Tsugaike check out Miso Phat for some apres drinks. Head across the road to Big slice for tasty pizza then chill out downstairs at Loose Change. If you want to send it finish up at Half Moon till the wee hours.” – Thomo, Hakuba Operations Manager
Keen to explore more of Hakuba off the slopes? Why not start with our Rhythm Wadano store! With a fully functional Rhythm and Beans cafe and bar, Rhythm Wadano offers up the perfect spot to stop for a cheeky beer while you’re boards getting a wax!
