Soak in an onsen

The volcanic landscape that you spent all day skiing or snowboarding on also provides geothermal energy and plentiful natural hot spring water.

While the nightlife in Hachimantai might be less developed than other Japanese or international ski resorts, apres ski here gives you the unique opportunity to experience regional Japanese culture and meet the locals who call Hachimantai home. The volcanic landscape that you spent all day skiing or snowboarding on also provides geothermal energy and plentiful natural hot spring water. Nothing says winter in Japan more than defrosting in an *onsen* (hot spring) after a long day in the snow. With springs varying across the region, you can even try waters with different mineral compositions. Many local hotels and pensions have onsite *onsen* baths or you can visit just for the day (called ‘hi-gaeri nyu-yoku’).

• Morinoyu － this onsen facility is set up solely for day visitors and is popular among locals. Unlike some hotel facilities that close to day visitors from early evening, Mori-no-yu remains open until 8 p.m. (last entry by 7 p.m.) making it an excellent apres ski option. They even offer discounted entry on presentation of your same-day lift ticket (from Hachimantai Resort).
• Appi Onsen Shirakabanoyu － located within Appi Kogen Ski Resort, this large facility offers both indoor and outdoor baths as well as a sauna, and is just a short walk from the main gondola station.

A few notes on bathing in a Japanese onsen for the uninitiated:

• No bathing suits ? it’s strictly a ‘birthday-suits’ only kind of affair
• Thoroughly wash your whole body at one of the shower stalls first ? the baths are solely for soaking in

Experience warm hospitality and local cuisine

The folk here take food seriously: think big servings of delicious seasonal regional produce. Regardless of where you dine you’re sure to find great food and friendly service, but we’ve included some of our favorites below:

• 8 LOCAL FOOD SAKE － on the ground floor of Business Hotel Nishine close to Obuke station, this modern restaurant features regional produce in both Japanese and western-style dishes that pair well with the locally-sourced beer and sake
• Takahashi Shokudo － specializing in sushi, tempura and soba noodles, this traditional restaurant offers a range of set meals
• Maruhatsu － a ramen shop that is very popular among local residents. As their opening times can be irregular, it’s best to ask your accommodation to call ahead and check that they’re open.

The folk here take food seriously: think big servings of delicious seasonal regional produce. Regardless of where you dine you’re sure to find great food and friendly service, but we’ve included some of our favorites below:

• Yakitori Jubei － a typical *izakaya* pub-style restaurant serving *yaki-tori* (chicken skewers) and plenty of drink -
• Cafe & Snack Fika － this cute cafe by day turns into a homely 'snack' bar by night offering a range of beverages and light meals
• 19Brew － opened in late 2022, this recent addition to Appi’s pension village combines a craft brewery and relaxed pub-style eatery. You can also sample their products with a tasting board.

Cheers with the locals!!

Please note that local taxis do not run to all areas or all night. If you are planning to go out away from your accommodation, plan your return journey in advance (and know the timetable!) or take a designated driver (it is against the law in Japan to drive after drinking any alcohol).