Hakusan National Park Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Hakusan National Park, hike its trails, enjoy its local cuisine, and experience its traditions through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Hakusan National Park

Hakusan National Park is a vast, mountainous area that spreads across three prefectures in Chubu, Japan. The park’s namesake, Mount Hakusan, is a dormant volcano that stands at over 2,700 meters above sea level. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, cultural seekers, and those looking for a relaxing escape.

This park offers a pristine, unspoiled wilderness that is home to rare flora and fauna, serene hot springs, and picturesque mountain villages. It’s recognized not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage dating back over 1,500 years. From the museums and historical places that showcase ancient crafts to the local culinary delights, Hakusan National Park provides an unforgettable experience.

List of Places to Visit in Hakusan National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shirayama Hime Shrine - This ancient shrine, located at the base of Mount Hakusan, has been a place of worship for over 1,500 years. It’s surrounded by cedar trees and provides a remarkable view of Hakusan’s snow-capped peaks.

  • Hakusan Folklore Museum - This museum showcases the traditional crafts and lifestyles of the local people through exhibits of pottery, textiles, and tools used in daily life.

  • Hakusan City Museum of Art - This museum exhibits local and national contemporary art in various mediums.

Natural Attractions of Hakusan National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Hakusan - The iconic peak is the third highest mountain in Japan and a popular destination for hikers and climbers.

  • Shirakawa-go - This UNESCO World Heritage site is a historical village that features traditional Japanese houses with steep roofs that are designed to withstand heavy snowfall.

  • Shinhotaka Ropeway - The cable car provides a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, especially during autumn when the foliage turns into various colors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hakusan National Park

Hakusan National Park has more than 400-kilometer hiking, mountaineering, and biking trails. The park provides an excellent opportunity for adventurous travelers to explore the natural beauty of this region. Here are the best routes:

  • Hakusan Super Rindo Trail - This 33-kilometer hiking trail, running along the Hakusan Super Rindo scenic road, takes you through the heart of the Northern Japanese Alps.

  • Hakusan Munakata Trail - This 8-kilometer trail connects the Hakusan Munakata Shrine and the Shirayama Hime Shrine, providing an opportunity to experience local culture and history.

  • Shirakawa Dake Trail - This trail provides an exhilarating hike up to the top of Shirakawa Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Hakusan National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs - Hakusan has numerous hot springs where you can relax after a long day of exploring the park. Yuwaku Onsen and Awazu Onsen are popular for their flowing waterfalls and natural rock formations that are incorporated into the bathhouses.

  • Cycling - There are numerous biking trails in Hakusan National Park that will take you through stunning scenery and the picturesque mountain villages surrounding the park.

  • Skiing - During the winter months, Hakusan National Park transforms into a winter wonderland that offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hakusan National Park

Day 1: Arrive in Kanazawa and visit the local attractions, such as Kenrokuen Garden and the 21st Museum of Contemporary Art.

Day 2: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawa-go, and visit the Wada House, a traditional gassho-style house.

Day 3: Hike the Super Rindo Trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 4: Visit the Hakusan Folklore Museum to gain insight into the local culture and way of life.

Day 5: Relax in one of the hot springs and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Day 6: Rent a bike and explore the less crowded areas of the park.

Day 7: Departure from Kanazawa.

Food and Drink Scene of Hakusan National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaga cuisine - Kanazawa cuisine focuses on seafood and vegetables, and it’s renowned for its flavors and presentation.

  • Oroshi Soba - Cold Soba noodles with grated Japanese radish, green onion, and soy sauce

  • Yamcha - Dim sum-style local cuisine, often served with locally brewed sake

Local Beverages

  • Sake - The park has many breweries and distilleries that produce sake that pairs well with the local cuisine.

  • Green Tea - the park offers an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of tea plantations and try their products.

Where to Stay in Hakusan National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hakusan Kanazawa Hotel - Located in Kanazawa, this hotel offers comfortable accommodation with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Kaga Yuzen-Tei Hotel - a luxury hotel offers traditional Japanese-style rooms.

  • Hakusan Guesthouse - Located in Hakusan City, this guesthouse provides a friendly atmosphere and cozy accommodation for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Hakusan National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wajima Lacquerware - Hand-painted jewelry boxes, tea sets, and bowls.

  • Kaga Yuzen Fabric - colorful fabrics hand-painted with traditional Japanese designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Hakusan National Park

  • Onsen Etiquette - Before entering an onsen, it’s customary to wash your body at the washing station to maintain high standards of hygiene.

  • Bow - The Japanese bow as a gesture of respect and can be seen in various daily interactions.

Best Time to Visit Hakusan National Park

The best time to visit Hakusan National Park is from April to November when the climate is mild, and the temperature is comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hakusan National Park

Do:

  • Respect the natural beauty of the park and take all trash with you.

  • Follow the park’s rules and regulations.

Don’t:

  • Bring pets or wild animals into the park.

  • Pick any flowers or plants in the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hakusan National Park

Hiking up to Mount Hakusan requires considerable physical stamina and skills. Ensure you have appropriate gear and consult with a professional guide beforehand.

Health in Hakusan National Park

Visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid tick bites, which can lead to tick-borne illnesses.

Getting to Hakusan National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hakusan National Park

Kanazawa Airport is the nearest airport to Hakusan National Park, and it serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Hakusan National Park

The Hokuriku Shinkansen takes you from Tokyo to Kanazawa, which is the central hub for transportation to other parts of Hakusan National Park.

Other Options

Car rentals are also available from Kanazawa or Toyama and offer the freedom to explore the lesser-known areas of the park at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Hakusan National Park

Public transportation is available, but renting a car or bicycle can give you more flexibility and access to the hidden gems of Hakusan National Park.

Where to Go Next from Hakusan National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kanazawa - Rich in cultural heritage, Kanazawa is a historic city that offers many attractions, including Kenrokuen Garden, the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, and the 21st Museum of Contemporary Art.

  • Takahashi - a small city steeped in history and a must-visit for those interested in samurai culture.

Conclusion

Hakusan National Park is a Japanese gem that’s ready to be explored. With its cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and stunning landscapes, it’s a must-visit. From the towering peaks of Mount Hakusan to the serene hot springs and ancient shrines, Hakusan National Park provides an unforgettable experience that leaves visitors wanting more.

Mt. Hakusan Mt. Hakusan