Mount Hakusan is a magnificent mountain spanning Ishikawa, Fukui, Gifu, and Toyama prefectures. Rising to approximately 2,702 meters, it is revered as one of Japan’s Three Sacred Mountains, together with Mount Fuji and Mount Tateyama. Its name means “White Mountain,” reflecting the snow that often covers its upper slopes for much of the year.
At the heart of Hakusan National Park, Mount Hakusan is celebrated for its pristine forests, alpine flowers, volcanic lakes, waterfalls, and spectacular mountain scenery. It is an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience Japan’s natural beauty, explore mountain trails, and discover centuries-old traditions of mountain worship.
Mount Hakusan has been an important center of religious devotion for more than a thousand years. According to tradition, the Buddhist monk Taicho climbed the mountain in 717, establishing a pilgrimage tradition that attracted monks and worshippers from across the region.
Shirayama Hime Shrine, located at the foot of the mountain, is closely associated with Hakusan worship. Near the summit, Hakusan Okumiya Shrine stands on Gozengamine, the mountain’s highest peak. These sacred sites reflect the long-standing connection between the mountain’s natural environment and Japanese spiritual traditions.
One of Mount Hakusan’s greatest attractions is its remarkable diversity of plant life. Alpine flowers bloom across the mountain slopes during summer, with the period from mid-July to mid-September particularly rewarding for nature lovers. The mountain is also known for its primeval beech forests, which provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.
As you climb higher, the dense forests gradually give way to open alpine landscapes. Depending on the season and weather, hikers may encounter colorful wildflowers, clear mountain streams, rugged volcanic terrain, and snow remaining in sheltered areas even during summer.
Mount Hakusan offers hiking routes for different experience levels, although reaching the summit requires good physical fitness and careful preparation. The most popular approach begins at Bettodeai, the main trailhead on the Ishikawa side. From there, the ascent to the summit and return generally takes around 8 to 10 hours, making it a demanding day hike.
Many hikers choose to stay overnight at Hakusan Murodo, a mountain lodge and visitor facility located at an elevation of approximately 2,450 meters. From Murodo, the summit of Gozengamine can be reached in about 30 minutes. Reservations are required for overnight accommodation, and availability can be limited during the busy summer season.
Experienced hikers can also explore routes around the summit, including trails that pass striking blue-green crater lakes. On clear days, the views may extend across the Sea of Japan and toward the Northern Japan Alps.
The main hiking season generally runs from July through October, depending on snow conditions and trail access. Summer is the best time to enjoy alpine flowers and lush mountain scenery, while September brings the first signs of autumn color. The mountain’s high elevation means temperatures can remain low even in summer, and weather conditions can change rapidly.
Mount Hakusan is also an active volcano, so visitors should follow official safety guidance and respect any trail restrictions. Before setting out, check current weather forecasts, trail conditions, transportation schedules, and the operating dates of mountain facilities.
During the summer hiking season, limited bus services connect Kanazawa Station with the mountain area on designated days. Depending on the service, travelers may need to transfer at Ichinose to a shuttle bus for Bettodeai. On busy weekends and public holidays, private vehicles may be restricted from accessing the trailhead, making the shuttle service necessary.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, carry sufficient drinking water and warm clothing, and allow enough time to complete your planned route safely. Hikers should submit the required mountain-climbing registration, stay on established trails, and carry out all rubbish. As mountain conditions and access arrangements change seasonally, confirm the latest information with the relevant authorities before your visit.
Take the Hakusan Mountain Climbing Bus from JR Kanazawa Station to the Betsudo Deai trailhead bus stop (last stop).
From the Betsudo Deai trailhead, take the new erosion control road to Hakusan Murodo (approx. 4 hr. 30 min.) on foot.