Mt. Hakusan
AlpineChubu(Ishikawa)
ModerateDistance
14 km
Elevation Gain
1500m
Max Elevation
2702m
Duration
10h
One of Japan's three sacred mountains with alpine wildflower meadows.
Mt. Hakusan (2,702m) is one of Japan's Three Sacred Mountains, straddling the borders of Ishikawa, Gifu, and Fukui Prefectures. The mountain is renowned for its extraordinary alpine flower diversity, with over 250 species blooming in the short summer season. The Midorigaike crater lake near the summit reflects the surrounding peaks, and the mountain's relative isolation provides a sense of wilderness rare in Japan.
At a Glance
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Distance
- 14 km
- Elevation Gain
- 1500 m
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Best Season
- July to September, wildflowers in August
- Trail Type
- alpine
Best Season
July to September, wildflowers in August
Highlights
Over 250 species of alpine flowers; Midorigaike crater lake; One of Japan's Three Sacred Mountains; Hakusan Shrine at the summit; Vast mountain panorama from summit plateau
Access
Take the Hokutetsu bus from Kanazawa Station to Bettodeai trailhead (about 2 hours, summer weekends only). On weekdays and outside peak season, drive to Ichirino and take a shuttle bus. By car, use the Hokuriku Expressway to Komatsu IC.
Warnings & Safety
Mountain hut reservations required for overnight stays. The climbing season is July to October. Access roads close from November to June. Weather is notoriously unstable due to proximity to the Sea of Japan. Snow remains on trails into July. Bears inhabit the area—carry a bell.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is Mt. Hakusan?
Mt. Hakusan is rated as moderate difficulty.
How long is Mt. Hakusan?
Mt. Hakusan is 14 km long.
What is the elevation gain on Mt. Hakusan?
The elevation gain on Mt. Hakusan is 1500 meters.
How long does it take to hike Mt. Hakusan?
Hiking Mt. Hakusan typically takes about 10 hours.
When is the best season to hike Mt. Hakusan?
The best season to hike Mt. Hakusan is July to September, wildflowers in August.
Where is the trailhead for Mt. Hakusan?
Mt. Hakusan is located in Ishikawa, Chubu region of Japan.
What type of trail is Mt. Hakusan?
Mt. Hakusan is a alpine trail.
Are there any warnings for Mt. Hakusan?
Warnings for Mt. Hakusan: Mountain hut reservations required for overnight stays. The climbing season is July to October. Access roads close from November to June. Weather is notoriously unstable due to proximity to the Sea of Japan. Snow remains on trails into July. Bears inhabit the area—carry a bell..
How do I get to Mt. Hakusan?
Access information for Mt. Hakusan: Take the Hokutetsu bus from Kanazawa Station to Bettodeai trailhead (about 2 hours, summer weekends only). On weekdays and outside peak season, drive to Ichirino and take a shuttle bus. By car, use the Hokuriku Expressway to Komatsu IC..
What is the maximum elevation on Mt. Hakusan?
The maximum elevation on Mt. Hakusan is 2702 meters.
Is Mt. Hakusan suitable for beginners?
Mt. Hakusan is rated moderate, making it accessible for hikers of that level.
Do I need special equipment for Mt. Hakusan?
For Mt. Hakusan, proper hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Check warnings: Mountain hut reservations required for overnight stays. The climbing season is July to October. Access roads close from November to June. Weather is notoriously unstable due to proximity to the Sea of Japan. Snow remains on trails into July. Bears inhabit the area—carry a bell..
What are the highlights of Mt. Hakusan?
Highlights of Mt. Hakusan include: Over 250 species of alpine flowers; Midorigaike crater lake; One of Japan's Three Sacred Mountains; Hakusan Shrine at the summit; Vast mountain panorama from summit plateau.
Is Mt. Hakusan accessible by public transport?
Access to Mt. Hakusan: Take the Hokutetsu bus from Kanazawa Station to Bettodeai trailhead (about 2 hours, summer weekends only). On weekdays and outside peak season, drive to Ichirino and take a shuttle bus. By car, use the Hokuriku Expressway to Komatsu IC..
Can I hike Mt. Hakusan in winter?
The best season for Mt. Hakusan is July to September, wildflowers in August. Check conditions before hiking in winter.