Denenshi

24193-71 Kamishiro, Hakuba-mura, Kitaazumi-gun, Nagano Prefecture 399-9211, Japan +81 261-75-3909 www.denenshi.com
Located in Misorano, this beautiful restaurant has become one of our new favourites. They offer an incredible 4 course lunch special which includes coffee for just JPY1,500 – a choice of Japanese or Western courses. Booking at least 1 day in advance is a must.  Such pretty décor, really quaint French style, amazingly friendly service, great value and most importantly incredible food.

Shouya Maruhachi

1032-1 Hokujo Oaza Hakuba Kitaazumi  +81 261-75-5008 http://shoyamaruhachi.buta3.jp/
Maruhachi was a traditional farmhouse built in 1852, towards the end the Edo era, and was the former residence of the Yokosawa Family. The Yokosawa were originally from the neighboring Otari Village and a member of the “Otari 5″. Throughout the Meiji, Taisho and Showa eras, Shouya Maruhachi was reconstructed and numerous times, and most recently in 2008. Serving delicious ramen, hotpot and tonkatsu ricebowl. Worth a visit just to admire the beautifully restored farmhouse complete with a traditional firepit.

Zen

3020-49 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture 399-9301 + 81 261-72-3637 http://zen.artbi.net/
Fresh, hand-cut soba dipped in tsuyu and slurped up with as much noise as you can muster – heavenly!  Not to forget the feather-light tempura morsels that melt in your mouth….. yes booking is required!

Ike

7024 Oaza Hokujo Hakuba-mura, Kitaazumi + 81 261-72-2365 http://www.hakubagalette.jp/shop/ike/   A truly amazing find! The owner, the wonderful ‘mamasan’, sources the daily ingredients from local farms and markets and serves a sumptuous set meal for dinner, reservations are required as the restaurant is tiny! (Located near the Co-op supermarket)