Hakusan, or Mt. Haku, is one of Japan's three holy mountains along with Mt. Fuji and Tateyama. It's a long but easy hike offering both free and paid mountain huts. It's somewhat difficult to access due to the infrequent bus schedule, so a car is generally recommended. The bus stop and parking are located at the Bettodeai trailhead which has two options, an easy and mild approach up through the forest (the Sabo Shindo), or a steeper but much more beautiful trail climbing along the ridgeline (the Kanko Shindo). There is a free mountain hut located on both trails and they're both about 2.5 hrs from the peak, however, there is a big difference in quality and size. Although the Kanko trail is more exciting, the mountain hut here, although modern, is very basic, quite small, and has no water source. On the other hand, the mountain hut on the Sabo trail is very nice, with more space and drinking water. The final option is the Murodo Mountain Lodge, only 30 mins from the peak, it's fully equipped with a gift shop, a humble restaurant, and many guest rooms.

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Like most of Japan's famous peaks, it's worth noting that it can be very busy on weekends and holidays, so booking ahead is necessary on weekends during the summer and autumn hiking season.

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