Parapente Hakuba Happo One Gondola Hieda

Located in Japan, this paragliding site offers a launch altitude of 1395 meters and is regularly used, with some potential for cross-country flights. It was a World Cup launch site in 2008 and is accessible via gondola. Takeoff options include: - Gondola Takeoff: Just outside the first section of the gondola. - Hang Gliding Takeoff: Near the top of the second section. - Competition Paragliding Takeoff: Specific coordinates available. Landing is at the foot of the Olympic jumping stadium, but be cautious of marked power lines. To fly here, you must go through a local paragliding school, which is a common requirement in most Japanese flight areas. Visitor fees are 2600¥ per day plus 860¥ per gondola trip. More information can be found at [X-Stage Paragliding](http://www.x-stage.co.jp/ELS/pg/) and [Sky Blue Paragliding School](http://www.geocities.jp/skyblue_pgs/). Access is convenient by train: - From Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Hakuba. - From Osaka via Nagano and Matsumoto. From Hakuba Station, you can take a taxi to the landing zone or arrange a pick-up. The takeoff is accessible by gondola. This site often hosts competitions, such as the Pre-PWC 2008, making it a very interesting flight area. For accommodation, consider staying at Mimosa Lodge, where the owner, Maebori-san, is a pilot and can assist you with getting to the launch. Contact Mimosa Lodge at (+81) (0)261-72-6085 or via email at mimosa@hyper.ocn.ne.jp. For more information on the region and paragliding regulations, visit [JHF Nagano Paragliding Sites](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Nagano.html#anchor2003nagano04). Don't miss visiting an onsen (Japanese hot spring) in or around Hakuba for a relaxing experience.