Navigating the Hakuba Valley is much easier once you know the "local secrets" of the taxi system.
Because the valley is spread out over 40 kilometers, taxis are the most flexible way to get to dinner or between ski resorts after the shuttle buses stop running.
While Hakuba is famous for its powder, it is also known for having a high demand for taxis during the winter season. To ensure a smooth trip, we recommend booking in advance or using the apps listed below.

Above: An AI-generated illustration of a local taxi at the Happo One Information Center. Please note that signage and vehicle details are for illustrative purposes.
Ride-Hailing & Apps
Traditional "street hailing" is rare in Hakuba. Using an app is often the fastest way to secure a ride without a language barrier.
Uber
Uber operates in Hakuba by partnering with local taxi fleets. You can use your standard Uber app to book a licensed taxi.
It’s cashless and provides a clear GPS pickup point. Find out more >
Hakuba Night Demand Taxi (HND)
This is a seasonal "on-demand" shared shuttle service (typically Dec–March).
It’s usually cheaper than a private taxi.
- Apple Store (iOS): Download on the App Store
- Google Play (Android): Get it on Google Play
- Official Info: Hakuba Village Government - Night Demand Taxi
- 2025-26 Winter Season User Guide
Local Taxi Companies
Most local taxis are equipped with roof racks for skis and snowboards.
Alps Taxi
Highly recommended; very familiar with local chalets
Phone: +81 261-72-2221 (from an international mobile phone) / 0261-72-2221 (from a Japanese landline or mobile phone)
Hakuba Kanko Taxi
Large fleet with multiple offices in the valley.
Phone: +81 261-72-2144 (from an international mobile phone) / 0261-72-2144 (from a Japanese landline or mobile phone)
Shinshu Meitetsu Taxi
Reliable service covering the wider Omachi/Hakuba area.
Phone: +81 261-72-2236 (from an international mobile phone) / 0261-72-2236 (from a Japanese landline or mobile phone)
Alpico Taxi
Part of the larger Alpico transport group.
Phone: +81 261-23-2323 (from an international mobile phone) / 0261-23-2323 (from a Japanese landline or mobile phone)
Top Tips for Travelers
- Peak Hours: Taxis are extremely busy between 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (après-ski and dinner) and 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM. If you have a dinner reservation, book your taxi at least 24 hours in advance.
- Late Night Surcharge: Most companies apply a 20-30% surcharge for rides between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM.
- Landmarks over Addresses: Japanese addresses can be confusing. When calling, give the name of a well-known hotel, restaurant, or landmark near your accommodation.
Taxi Rank Locations
If you prefer to find a taxi in person, head to these primary hubs where vehicles often wait between bookings:
JR Hakuba Station
The main taxi rank is located directly outside Hakuba Station's front exit.
Happo Information Center (@ the Happo One Bus Terminal)
This is the busiest hub in the village.
Direct Taxi Phone: Look for the dedicated taxi phone located inside the Happo Information Center building. It provides a direct line to local dispatchers if no cars are waiting outside.
Hakuba Goryu
Taxis occasionally wait outside the Escal Plaza during peak après hours.
Transportation tech and local taxi availability in Hakuba are evolving quickly. While the details above are accurate as of early 2026, we recommend downloading the Uber and Hakuba Night Demand Taxi apps upon arrival to see the most current real-time coverage and wait times.