Here’s a fun little discovery from our Hakuba trip: Nabura Hakuba. My hubby stumbled upon it on Google Maps when meeting his colleague for drinks (no driving, obviously!). It’s just 600m from Il Bosco, where we were staying. He spotted people tucking into burgers and flagged it as a potential dinner spot. So back we went the next night — our last in Hakuba.
The Vibe at Nabura Hakuba
We rocked up around 5pm and it was already pitch dark. Yep, winter sunsets in Hakuba start just before 5pm. We sat right at the bar. The Japanese bartender recognised hubby instantly — warm, friendly, decent English, and we chatted away like old mates.
Heads up: Nabura only opens during the winter season. Check their Facebook page for the 26/27 season dates so you don’t rock up to a closed door.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Happy Hour (4–6pm): 300 yen off draft beer and shochu cocktails. Our Asahi draft small glass was 1000 yen, so 700 yen during happy hour.
- Dine-in rule: One drink per person. Non-alcoholic options available.
- Takeaway available if you’d rather eat back at your lodge.
What’s on the Menu at Nabura Hakuba
The menu isn’t huge, but it covers the essentials for a chill night of drinks and bites. Here’s what you’ll find:
- Burgers: 3 options — Refuel, Teriyaki and Vegetarian
- Fried stuff: Chicken & chips, chicken nuggets, fries
- Snacky bits: Takoyaki, edamame, tortilla chips, olives, mixed nuts
Nice and simple — proper drinking food, basically.
What We Ate
Refuel Burger (2000 yen)
Beef and pork patty with cheese, onion, lettuce, tomato and mayo. You can tell the patty is homemade — not some frozen supermarket job. Still moist inside.
My only gripe? The buns are a bit thick and bready. But overall, a decent burger. The hot crispy fries on the side were properly enjoyable.
Fish & Chips (2000 yen)
Freshly fried, crispy and crunchy. The tartar sauce and ketchup did their job well. Not mind-blowing, but hits the spot.
Final Verdict on Nabura Hakuba
The food isn’t going to blow your socks off, but prices are fair and the vibes are cosy and welcoming. It’s a lovely spot to chill with drinks — and a nice break from the constant Japanese meals we’d been having all week in Hakuba.
If you’re staying nearby, Nabura Hakuba is worth a pop-in for drinks and some casual Western fare.
