On August 21, I fell on a large rock just before reaching the Hakuba Oike Mountain Lodge. Once I arrived at the lodge, the staff examined the condition of my leg and the back of my head. I am also grateful for all the arrangements they made—including canceling my reservation at the summit lodge and contacting Renge Onsen, my descent point—when I decided to cancel the next day’s hike and head down the mountain. Thanks to the thorough taping I received before descending, I was able to make it down on my own, albeit slowly. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the staff members. Thank you very much.

Our family of six stayed here. Since we left Tsugaike late, we had planned to check in at 4:00 PM, but due to having to navigate the Gorogoro Rocks and leg cramps, two members ended up arriving more than an hour late. The rule for mountain huts is that everyone must check in together, but we obviously couldn’t do that this time. Since the others were running late, we sent four of us ahead to check in first. Not knowing the status of the two who were still behind us, they were reportedly given a stern lecture by the lodge staff regarding the late check-in. Both the members who went ahead and I were quite impressed by the staff’s handling of the situation. Arriving as a complete group is a fundamental rule when hiking as a party, and since sunset was approaching and we had no idea what had happened to the members who were running late, everyone knew that checking in under those circumstances fit the pattern of a mountain accident. That’s why we were all impressed by the staff member (apparently a woman) who strictly and firmly cautioned the guests on that point. It was a great lodge with great staff. Since my cell phone didn’t have service and I couldn’t relay the situation to the group that had gone ahead, I’m now regretting that I should have brought a walkie-talkie after all.

I’d been wanting to stay at this mountain lodge for a while, so I visited with high expectations. At the front desk, they confirmed my reservation by name, and the process went very smoothly. For lunch on the day of arrival, I ordered fried rice at the café. Since I’d worked up a sweat, I really appreciated the hearty, bold flavor. The gift shop had friendly staff, and I enjoyed picking out some of their original merchandise. The dormitory featured the familiar silkworm-style bunk beds. Both the room and the bedding were clean, so I was able to sleep soundly and comfortably even without the sheets I’d brought with me. Dinner was shared with members of another group, and while we enjoyed chatting with them, it was a bit of a shame that we had to switch seats after just 30 minutes. Well, I suppose that’s just me being picky, so I fully understand the situation. This time I stayed for just one night, but next time I’d love to stay for a few nights and hike round-trip to Mt. Hakuba. It was a wonderful two days. Thank you very much.

I experienced a leg cramp on the way from Tsugaike Nature Park to Hakuba Oike Mountain Lodge before checking in, so I asked another group to pass on a message that I would be delayed. Since I could only contact them via a message, I would like to see this system improved so that I can contact them directly in an emergency.

One of our group members sprained an ankle, and the staff handled the situation wonderfully. Although we weren’t satisfied with the room or the food, the customer service was top-notch. We also appreciate your help in suggesting an alternative route due to the bad weather and making a reservation for our lodging after we descended the mountain.

The meals were remarkably simple. Breakfast, in particular…😰 For anyone planning to head up to Mt. Hakuba from here, it’s simply not enough to give you the energy you need. I actually felt they should have added a note on their website saying something like, “Meals at this mountain hut are simple, so if you want to replenish your energy adequately, please bring your own snacks in addition to the hut’s meals.”

The woman at the front desk was very polite, which I really appreciated. I thought it was wonderful how she spoke to the elderly with such care and patience. I look forward to seeing you again.