This is my fifth stay at Hakuba Sanso. Although it’s located right below the summit of Mt. Hakuba, I think its service is outstanding—a model for other mountain huts. This time, due to a linear precipitation zone that hit Toyama Prefecture, I was forced to stay put for two days. However, the staff kindly contacted the next mountain lodge I had planned to stay at—which I had to cancel—and, perhaps because there were few guests, I was able to have an 8-tatami-mat Japanese-style room all to myself. Given my age, I suspect this will be my last climb of Mt. Hakuba, but I’ve stayed here five times since my first visit in my twenties. I am endlessly grateful for the support this lodge has provided as a valued partner in my mountaineering life. I sincerely hope you will continue to run this mountain lodge for many years to come.

It was truly amazing—I had no idea a mountain resort could be so well-equipped. It’s incredible to have restrooms that don’t smell bad, and the private rooms made for a very comfortable night’s sleep. Although I think the meals could use some improvement, overall, I’m really grateful for such excellent facilities up here in the mountains.

Since it’s Japan’s largest mountain hut, many hikers stay there, but I was pleased to see that the service ran smoothly. The shared dormitory-style rooms felt smaller than those at other mountain huts. (Though not as small as they used to be.) I was surprised and delighted to find that the restrooms had heated toilet seats.

It was the first dinner service. Although it had been announced that seconds were free, there were still large crowds of people lined up with their trays. I was told it was okay to cut in line for seconds, but it was extremely difficult—both physically and mentally. Also, I could sense from the atmosphere that people seated at the far end of the tables—who could hardly pull their chairs back to get out—were thinking, “I’d like seconds, but I guess I’ll just give up.” To resolve these issues, I think it would be best to assign staff specifically to handle refills and serve them directly. I expect I’ll be told this isn’t feasible due to staff shortages, but I’d still like to request this improvement. Note that while this wouldn’t be a problem for people who are bold and don’t care about those around them, it’s simply impossible for the average Japanese person.

I asked for a different breakfast, but they gave me a bento box that wasn't what I ordered. When I checked with the front desk to see if a compact private room was available, they accommodated my request.

Just like the hot water, I was able to buy a warm, delicious cup of tea for 100 yen a bottle. Since I hadn't been able to eat much for breakfast, this was a huge help.

The system for making reservations and changing dates was easy to use, and it was a big help that I could change my plans based on the weather or other commitments.

I stayed in a basic private room at the historic Hakuba Sanso, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary. The room was comfortable, the service was excellent, and dinner—a thick pork cutlet—was absolutely delicious. I was able to watch the sunset while enjoying a beer at the Sky Plaza. You can also see Mount Tsurugi from the Sky Plaza. It was a wonderful, memorable mountain trip.

The staff at the front desk and in the cafeteria were all cheerful and made a great impression. In the semi-private room, I was able to sleep peacefully—perhaps because the sound was blocked by the wall on the side.