| From Tokyo: | 4-5 hr |
| From Osaka: | 4-5 hr |
How to Get There
Hakusan National Park’s main attraction is Mount Hakusan, one of Japan’s three most sacred mountains. Other highlights include traditional buildings in Shiramine, the panoramic view of Hyakuyojo-no-taki Falls and Hakusan Chukyo-jinja Shrine. The park spans Fukui, Gifu, Ishikawa and Toyama prefectures west of Tokyo. Public transportation in the area is somewhat limited, so renting a car is your best option.
From Tokyo
During the climbing season (July to October), a limited bus service runs to the Bettodeai trailhead, which leads to Mount Hakusan. To reach the trailhead from Tokyo, take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station (2.5-3 hr) and transfer to a bus (2 hr). Renting a car at Kanazawa Station makes it easier to reach the trailhead, and many areas of the park not served by public transportation. However, the road to Bettodeai trailhead closes on peak days during the climbing season (July to October). On those days, you can park near the Ichinose Visitor Center and take a shuttle to the trail.
From Osaka
Take the JR Thunderbird limited express train to Kanazawa Station (2 hr 30 min) and transfer to a bus (2 hr). Renting a car at Kanazawa Station makes it easier to reach the trailhead, and many areas of the park not served by public transportation. However, the road to Bettodeai trailhead closes on peak days during the climbing season (July to October). On those days, you can park near the Ichinose Visitor Center and take a shuttle to the trail.
Getting Around
If traveling by bus, it’s important to note the bus times and schedule your hikes around them. Although Mount Hakusan is possible as a day trip by bus from Kanazawa, you might find yourself rushing to catch the last bus back. Renting a car and booking a stay at Shiramine Onsen will allow for a more relaxed exploration of the park, including stops at the numerous shrines where pilgrims have worshiped for centuries, such as Hakusan Chukyo-jinja Shrine. You’ll also have time for some scenic drives, such as the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road that passes through the mountains toward Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture.