Hakubachō

Soba Noodles

A must-try dish, Hakuba’s soba noodles are made from locally grown buckwheat and provides a hearty and fulfilling meal. A popular place to enjoy this dish is at the Waga Soba Restaurant, offering a cozy atmosphere while savoring this local specialty.

Must-Try!

Oyaki

Oyaki are a type of Japanese dumpling that is usually stuffed with savory ingredients such as vegetables, mushrooms, or local mountain vegetables. Visitors can find these delightful dumplings at the food stalls in the Echoland Street area.

Hakuba Curry Rice

Hakuba's take on Japanese curry features a slightly sweet and rich flavor, often incorporating local meats and vegetables. A fantastic place to sample this dish is at the Curry Village restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and varied curry options.

Polite Greetings

In Hakubachō, and throughout Japan, bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect. It is polite to bow when meeting someone for the first time, and to use respectful language such as 'Konnichiwa' (hello) or 'Arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you very much).

Dining Etiquette

When dining in Hakubachō, it's important to be mindful of Japanese dining etiquette. Always say 'Itadakimasu' before starting your meal and 'Gochisousama deshita' after finishing. It is also polite to use chopsticks correctly and avoid sticking them upright in rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.

Quiet Public Spaces

Japanese culture values tranquility in public spaces. In Hakubachō, it is considered disrespectful to speak loudly or engage in boisterous behavior, especially on public transport. Using a quiet voice and being aware of your surroundings demonstrates respect for others.