Hakuba Daisekkei & Mt. Shirouma
白馬大雪渓・白馬岳
One of Japan's three great snow valleys, where you can climb about 3.5 km of snowfield in crampons even in midsummer, leading to alpine flower fields and Mt. Shirouma.
Hakuba Daisekkei lies in the valley on the east side of Mt. Shirouma. It is about 3.5 km long and, together with Kenzawa and Harinoki, is counted among Japan's three great snow valleys, remaining deep in snow even in midsummer. From Sarukura trailhead (about 1,250 m), it takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes on foot to reach Hakubashiri Hut, where you can see the full snow valley. Most casual visitors turn back here. Continuing upward requires light crampons and 2-3 hours of climbing on the snow, so watch for falling rocks. The upper section, Negidaira, is a treasure trove of alpine flowers. Beyond that is the summit of Mt. Shirouma (2,932 m), which usually requires an overnight stay at the summit hut. Getting there: about 30 minutes by bus from Hakuba Station to Sarukura (operates around May to October).
Opening hours
Hiking season about July–Sep
Nearby sights
- Tsugaike Nature Park
- Happo Pond
- Hakuba Happo Onsen
- Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Harbor
- Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort
- Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium
- Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort
- Hakuba Goryu & Hakuba 47