Hakuba, known for its mountain views and quality snow, recorded the largest roadside land price increase. Some residents worry it could become the next Niseko. Published on By Hakuba, Nagano Prefecture, recorded the highest increase in roadside land prices nationwide, as announced by the National Tax Agency on July 1.
Wadano Road, located in the Hokujo region, has surged in popularity as a budget-friendly ski resort, attracting significant foreign investment. Land values increased by 32.1% to ¥37,000 (around $230 USD) per square meter (10.
8 sq ft) compared to 2023. Some residents are concerned that the influx of foreign-led development could turn the area into the next Niseko, a town in Hokkaido experiencing overtourism. The entrance to Wadano Road is just a 10-minute drive from Hakuba Station, which faces the Northern Alps.
This village road, surrounded by forest, is lined with upscale hotels. Close to the station is Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort, a year-round tourist destination. It features a swing that offers the sensation of soaring into the Northern Alps and a terrace with sweeping mountain views.
The resort's spokesperson emphasized, "It's important to attract fans regardless of the season." A woman from Kyoto commented, "You can immerse yourself in vast nature here, unlike anything in the city. Hakuba is popular on social media even during the summer.
" Land prices in Hakuba are rising due to redevelopment initiatives backed by both domestic and international capital.