Yukimaru

Stepping into Yukimaru feels like entering a warm embrace amid the crisp mountain air of Hakuba. The gentle hum of conversation blends effortlessly with the subtle clinking of glasses, while the soft glow of the kotatsu heaters tucked beneath each table invites guests to settle in and relax. Here, time slows just enough to remind you that good moments—and good company—are to be savored as deeply as the food itself.

This izakaya strikes a rare balance between unpretentious comfort and thoughtful detail. The atmosphere is lively yet homey, a place where both locals and travelers find a shared rhythm around hearty plates and well-poured drinks. The room fills quickly, a testament to its welcoming spirit and the genuine connections it fosters, whether you’re perched at the bar or nestled into a traditional floor seating nook.

The culinary experience at Yukimaru is woven into the warmth of its setting. Every dish encourages a sense of discovery—whether it’s a freshly grilled skewer bursting with savory smoke, the soft richness of a comforting tofu stew, or the unexpected crispness of a thin-crust pizza. Drinks flow easily, from frosty draft beers to carefully chosen local brews, making it effortless to linger over stories and laughter as the evening stretches on.

It’s a place that invites you to shed the outside world’s pace and lean into moments of togetherness, where each bite and sip is threaded with a connection to the region’s flavors and spirit. Yukimaru isn’t just a meal; it’s a small, warm world within Hakuba’s brisk mountain nights—a casual retreat that’s both deeply rooted in local tradition and joyfully open to new friends.