Mount Hakusan

Mount Hakusan (白山), located in the northern part of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, is considered one of Japan’s three holy mountains, alongside Mount Tate and Mount Fuji. It is also designated as a National Park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its significance in both natural and cultural heritage.

The mountain, with a peak elevation of 2,702 meters, has been a sacred site for centuries, serving as the center of Hakusan worship. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring scenic trails and diverse ecosystems. The area is home to various rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, including Japanese serows, golden eagles, and unique alpine plants like the chocolate lily and Hakusan kozakura.

Mount Hakusan is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of trails catering to different skill levels. The most popular trail is the Ishikawa Route, which takes approximately 7-8 hours to reach the summit. However, other routes are available from Gifu and Fukui prefectures as well. The mountain is typically open for climbing from early June to mid-October.

In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, and skiing in the winter months. The surrounding area offers hot springs, traditional Japanese inns, and cultural attractions like the Hakusan Shrine, the central shrine of Hakusan worship. The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road, also known as the Hakusan Super Rindo Forest Road, is a scenic route winding through the mountains, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and convenient access to the mountain.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

From Tokyo:

1. Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station (2.5-3 hours)
2. Transfer to a bus bound for Bettodeai (2 hours 15 minutes)

• Total journey time: About 5 hours

From Osaka:

1. Take the JR Thunderbird limited express to Kanazawa Station (2.5 hours)
2. Transfer to a bus bound for Bettodeai (2 hours 15 minutes)

• Total journey time: About 4-5 hours

By Car

• Renting a car at Kanazawa Station is recommended for easier access
• Drive to Bettodeai trailhead (about 1 hour from Kanazawa)
• Note: The road to Bettodeai closes on peak days during climbing season (July to October)

By Air

• Fly to Komatsu Airport
• From Komatsu Airport:
• Take a taxi or car to Bettodeai (about 1.5 hours)