Hakuba Moegi Hotel

I stayed here for 4 nights. Exceeded my expectations in every way. 1) even before I arrived, I had my skis and gear bag shipped from Narita Airport straight there. They held them for a few extra days in their storage room. My gear bag was waiting for me in my room when I checked in, skis were waiting in my storage room. 2) everyone on the staff was fantastic. From dinner reservations, to how to navigate the town, and just general chat. 3) the hotel has such a warm feeling. There are plants everywhere, there is a fireplace that is kept running most of the day, there's a Japanese style rest area with books, there's a large breakfast lounge that's open 24 hours a day. 4) the room was great. There was a western style king bed, Japanese style floor and couch. It was very relaxing. The bathroom was simple, typical Japanese, but the shower was hot and everything worked. 5) a dedicated room for skis/boards where you have private storage and plenty of room to get set up in the morning. The room has direct access to outside and direct access to the main lobby. 6) breakfast was simple but consistent. The staff makes sandwiches every morning for all guests plus there is cereal and coffee/tea. Not a lot of options, but good, simple, and free. The coffee is available from early morning to late night. 7) it's about a 5 minute walk all downhill to happo gondola or a 2 minute walk uphill to base of Shirakawa 2 chair lift. If skiing at Happo, exit at the end of the day to the left of the Ramen place at base of Shirakaba 2 lift (small 10 car car park) and it's a 2 minute downhill walk.