Climbing Mt. Karamatsu (Via Happo Pond)
Update:2019/09/28
During summer, the Happo One ski resort opens several of its lifts for hiking season. From Hakuba-ike Sanso at the top of the last lift, there are a number of picturesque hikes for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
One of Hakuba's most popular spots in summer is undoubtedly Happo Pond, surrounded by the gorgeous peaks of the Northern Japanese Alps. On a clear day, the pond has amazing views of the Hakuba Sanzan mountains (Mts. Shirouma, Shakushi, and Hakuba-Yari) and reflects them in its waters. Despite its lofty location, the pond is a brisk 90-minute hike from Hakuba-ike Sanso, and along the way is a treasure trove of wildflowers.
More adventurous hikers can proceed up to 2,696m Mt. Karamatsu. From Hakuba-ike Sanso, the hike can be completed in one day in about 7.1 hours. In mid July and August, junior high schoolers around Nagano climb Karamatsu-dake for their annual outdoor field trips. Beginners can certainly enjoy the hike but a degree of physical fitness and hiking equipment is required.
| Location | Hakuba Village Map |
|---|---|
| TEL | 0261-72-7100 (Hakuba Town Tourism Office) |
| FAX | 0261-72-6311 |
| info@po.vill.hakuba.nagano.jp | |
| Business hours | Early June to end of October |
| Usage fee | Alpine Line Roundtrip (Adult) : 2,900 yen Alpine Line Roundtrip (Child) : 1,750 yen |
| Trail details | Total Distance: 10.5km Total Time: 7.1 hours Recommended No. of Days: 1 day Elevation Difference: 950m Starting/Ending Point: Hakuba-ike Sanso Mid Point: Mt. Karamatsu Lodging: Hakuba-ike Sanso, Karamatsu-dake Sancho Sanso |
| Seasonal Info | Fall Foliage: late September to early October |
Access and Parking
| Access |
By Train:Get off at Nagano Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen) Take the Hakuba line bus to the Happo Bus Terminal. From there, a 10-minute walk to the Adam Gondola. |
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