How do I book a Hakuba restaurant?I don’t speak the language, I can’t find restaurants on Google, everything is booked, and I can’t call in advance. What do I do?We get this question all the time in the Hakuba Travel Forum. We understand your pain, and the good news is that Hakuba is working hard to solve the problem.Last year (winter 2023/2024), Hakuba Valley introduced Tablecheck, an online booking platform for restaurants in Japan.And it’s in English!So, let’s solve your problem. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on booking restaurants in Hakuba using Tablecheck.
What is TableCheck
TableCheck is a restaurant reservation platform established in Japan in 2011. It is designed to bridge the gap between restaurants and guests.The TableCheck app and website allow diners to search for restaurants based on criteria such as location, cuisine, and budget, and they support multiple languages.It has become a trusted resource for booking exceptional dining experiences in Japan.
How to Book a Hakuba Restaurant Using TableCheck
Before diving into the nitty-gritty steps, let’s talk about why using TableCheck system is a game-changer for booking restaurants in Hakuba. TableCheck offers a user-friendly interface, real-time booking capabilities, multi-language support, and customizable search filters designed to create unique dining experiences and enhance your culinary journey. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on how to book your perfect dining spot.
Step 1: Tablecheck.com
You can access TableCheck via their app or head to the website TableCheck.com.
Step 2: Search Hakuba
Click on the area search bar and type in Hakuba. Choose Hakuba station and click search.
Step 3: Choose Your Restaurant
This is where the fun begins. Browse through the list of options and choose your restaurant.To find restaurants in Hakuba, set the number of people, the date you are searching, and your preferred time.Using the scroll bar, set the distance to 20km.
Step 4: Check Availability
Review and accept the booking policy.Confirm your booking details, check availability, and then click checkout.
Step 5: Make a Reservation
Now that you’ve chosen your restaurant and checked its availability, it’s time to confirm your booking details and make the reservation. Some restaurants create special offers for course meals during the reservation process. Some restaurants even offer pre-order options for course meals at special prices, which you can take advantage of during this step.
You must enter your first and last name and phone number to make the reservation.You can create a TableCheck account to speed up future bookings.You can also choose if you want to be reminded of your booking through SMS.
Step 6: Review and Confirm
Almost there! Review your reservation details on the confirmation screen to ensure everything is correct.
Other Ways to Book a Hakuba Restaurant
While Tablechek is convenient, other ways exist to book restaurants in Hakuba. Many restaurants, especially those outside of Echoland, are Japanese-owned and do not use online TableCheck.
- Social Media Profiles: Many restaurants have active social media profiles; you can message them to make a reservation.
- Restaurant Website: Some restaurants offer booking options through their website
- Phone: This is the most common method for many Japanese-run restaurants in Hakuba.
If you don’t speak Japanese and are unsure if the restaurant has English-speaking employees, start with written methods. Write it in English, then use Google to translate it and send both.We speak English at Hana Emi Cafe, but it is not uncommon for us to receive reservation requests through FB or IG messenger.It’s always worth trying the phone; you may be surprised at how much English they speak. The worst-case scenario, they don’t understand, and you book somewhere else. If that fails, ask the hotel to call on your behalf or maybe the random Japanese guy on the chairlift.
Conclusion
Thanks to TableCheck, booking a restaurant in Hakuba has never been easier. Finding a restaurant can be challenging in the winter. I highly recommend booking your reservations well in advance.I love the convini in Japan, but you don’t want that to be your only option.Try out TableCheck and let us know what you think.We will happily send feedback to the city and continue improving the process.Good Luck, & see you this winter!
FAQ
Can I book restaurants outside of Japan with TableCheck?
TableCheck lists restaurants from various regions, allowing you to make reservations beyond Japan. The company provides a flexible booking platform for international reservations, ensuring a seamless experience for users. So whether you’re planning a trip to Seoul or a culinary tour in Bali, TableCheck has got you covered.
What should I do if I don’t receive a confirmation email?
Check your email’s spam or other folders and ensure that TableCheck’s emails are not filtered. If the issue persists, contact TableCheck support for assistance. You’ll find their customer service responsive and ready to help.
Can I cancel or modify my reservation through TableCheck?
Following each restaurant’s specific cancellation policy, you can easily cancel or modify your reservation through the app. This gives you flexibility and peace of mind if plans change.
What do I do if I encounter issues?
Contact the restaurant directly if you encounter problems during the booking process or have specific requests.
How does the TableCheck work?
TableCheck partners with various restaurants and provides a platform for customers to make reservations. Users can browse a selection of restaurants, select their desired date and time, and make seamless reservations through the TableCheck app or website. The platform also offers features such as reviews and ratings from previous customers, making it easier for users to choose the best dining experience. Using TableCheck, you can save time and hassle in securing a reservation at your favorite restaurant.
What is TableCheck in Japan?
TableCheck is a popular online reservation platform that originated in Japan. It was founded in 2011 and has since expanded to other countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom.TableCheck’s user-friendly interface and multilingual support make it ideal for non-Japanese speakers who want to book a table at local restaurants.
What types of cuisine are available in Hakuba?
Hakuba offers diverse dining options, from sushi and ramen to international cuisine. Some popular dishes in Hakuba include soba noodles, katsu curry, and hot pot dishes such as shabu-shabu. Many restaurants in Hakuba also use locally sourced ingredients, making for a fresh and flavorful dining experience.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options at Hakuba restaurants?
Many Hakuba restaurants cater to Western dietary requirements with vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.
Do Hakuba restaurants accept credit cards?
Most restaurants in Hakuba accept major credit cards, but it’s advisable to check beforehand or carry some cash for smaller eateries.
Is it necessary to make a reservation at restaurants in Hakuba?
While not always required, making a reservation is recommended during peak seasons to ensure you have a table at your desired restaurant.
Hi there! I’m Mike, I love the mountains and the outdoors. I’m lucky enough to live in Hakuba, Japan where, in the winter you will find me out skiing or snowboarding and in the summer hiking the local mountain peaks.
