Big Bear Chalets & Apartments

Based on a recommendation from a friend, we booked a 2-bedroom Big Bear Chalet on the same dates as another family we were travelling with in January 2019. When we arrived, we found that our chalets were adjoining with a connecting door – which was perfect. For a family of 4 including two older teenagers, the 2-bed chalet had plenty of room. We had a queen size bed in our room – and our boys each had a queen-sized bed of their own in the large 2nd bedroom. Our host, Darren was great with his communication from our initial booking in March 2018 through to our arrival. Our two families arrived together and Darren picked us up from the Happo Bus Station with all our gear. He then took the time to brief us on the amenities of our chalet and the services his team offered (including discount lift tickets to Happo-one, daily shopping shuttle, regular towel replacements and transport to restaurants not within walking distance). As an Australian, Darren understands the priorities for Australians travelling with teenagers – like a functional kitchen, reliable appliances, drying room, good heating, smart TV and fast wi-fi. The relaxing private onsen in the chalet was just brilliant and a great way to relax after a day on the snow. In the months leading up to our trip, Darren provided advice on the best options for ski/board hire, transport to & from Hakuba, restaurants, etc. For first time travellers to Japan and to Hakuba, Darren’s advice was really valuable and saved us hours in time trying to work out the best options. For the best restaurants (like Hummingbird), I suggest you book well in advance as they are booked months ahead. The location is excellent – with a 5-10 minute walk to the Kokusai lift on Happo-one. Just across the road from our chalet, there was a bus stop for the various free shuttles to the other ski resorts like Iwatake, Hakuba 47 and Tsugaike Kogen. Darren provided timetables for the various shuttles to make it as easy as possible. There are also many good quality restaurants within walking distance. We often had dinner in though as we preferred to just chill at “home” and watch Netflix after big days on the slopes. Our stay at Big Bear Chalets was just brilliant really – and I don’t think we could have made a better choice for our accommodation on our first visit to Hakuba. Thanks to Darren and his team for all the great advice and for looking after us so well during our stay.