Will the Hakuba Daisekkei route be passable this year? Current outlook

[Latest information as of June 24th, 2025]

In last year, record low snowfall and high temperatures caused the Hakuba Daisekkei route to be closed in early July, causing many people to change their climbing plans. So what will happen in this year? We will introduce the current state of the Hakuba Daisekkei route, the outlook for this season, and the best time to climb the mountain.

There is a lot of snow this season. The conditions of the Oyukikei route

Hakuba Daisekkei, one of Japan's three largest snow fields, is a dynamic route where you can walk on snow even in summer. It is a popular trail visited by many climbers every year.

The winter of 2024 saw little snowfall, coupled with a sudden rise in temperatures from spring, which made it difficult to ensure safety and forced the road to be closed in early July, much earlier than usual.

On the other hand,There will be a lot of snow this winter in 2025, and it is currently expected that the summer road will be passable from early July.The Hakuba Village, the mountain guides' association, and mountain hut officials are closely cooperating to monitor the situation. There is still a lot of snow remaining in June, the summer trails are not open, and there is still a lot of snow remaining in the small snowfields, so crampons and other equipment are essential. If you are considering climbing by early July, please check the following notice.

The following photo was taken on June 18 and shows the conditions around the second snowfield, located in the latter half of the Hakuba Daisekkei route. There is still a substantial amount of snow remaining, and we expect the route will remain passable even during the peak season in late July.

However, this year too, a trend towards higher temperatures is already evident, with temperatures exceeding 30℃ continuing since May.
Since we are dealing with nature, we cannot say for sure that it will be safe during this season.We recommend that you plan flexibly, taking into account the weather and snow conditions just before your trip.

Is the shortest route to the summit of Mt. Hakuba surprisingly easy?

Some people may be worried that it will be difficult to climb the snowfield, but in fact,the Hakuba Daisekkei route is the shortest and easiest route to the summit of Mt. Hakuba, also known as Mt. Shirouma.

This is because you can take small steps with each step on the snow, making it more stable to climb than on rocks. Many people say that snow routes, where you can choose where to place your feet even on the same slope, are easier for beginners than climbing rocky areas with sudden changes in elevation.

The key point is to wear “simple crampons.” Crampons are essential, especially when descending, as it becomes easier to slip. They also make climbing much easier.
At Sarukura Hut, located near the trailhead, you can rent simple crampons, so you can try climbing even if you don't have your own equipment.

In addition, although falling rocks are a concern on any mountain, you must also be careful on snowfields. While climbing, be aware of the sounds around you and above you, and walk safely.
As the risk of falling rocks increases when approaching rock faces, it is also important to stay away from rock faces and not stray from the route.

Once you cross the large snowy valley, a "flower field in the sky" awaits you.

Once you reach the top of the Hakuba Daisekkei valley, on the way to the ridge of Mt. Hakuba/ Mt. Shirouma,Hakuba's "flower fields".This area is a veritable natural paradise, with a wide variety of alpine plants blooming in full glory every year from early to mid-July.

Colorful flowers such as the white mountain cherry, the edelweiss, the mountain buttercup, and the white mountain anemone sprout all at once from the moist soil just after the snow melts.Mt.Hakuba, also known as Mt.Shirouma is one of Japan's leading treasure troves of alpine plantsand one of the world's most diverse alpine plants, and many climbers visit every year to see this beautiful scenery.

Beyond the snowy valley lies a magnificent view that will make you forget all the fatigue of the climb. It's a place you should definitely burn into your memory as a "reward" after climbing up a steep slope.

Hakuba Sanso Lodge, a "lodging in the sky" that spreads out beyond the ridge

Once you leave the snowy valley and reach the ridgeline, you'll find Hakuba Sanso Lodge waiting for you. It is the largest and oldest mountain lodge in Japan, located at an altitude of 2,832m, and offers an extraordinary stay, as if you were staying at a lodging in the sky. Enjoying beer and light meals at the spectacular cafe restaurant "Sky Plaza" will help you blow away the fatigue of your climb.

If the weather is good, you will be able to see some breathtaking views, such as the ridgeline at dusk, a starry sky, and a sea of ​​clouds in the morning.
Hakuba Sanso Lodge offers hot meals and bedding, and has a variety of room types, including bedrooms, private rooms for solo occupants (2 tatami mat rooms), and private rooms for multiple people (6 tatami mat and 8 tatami mat rooms), so even beginners can stay with peace of mind.

Access to the trailhead | Sarukura parking lot is unavailable

Sarukura Parking Lot which is the closest parking lot to the trailhead in 2025 is unavailable. Therefore, if you are coming by car,Use the free parking lots in the Happo area (5th, 3rd, east side of Lawson convenience store), and then take a bus or taxi to the trailhead.

Starting this year, buses require advance reservations, so if you are considering using the bus, please check the information from Alpico Kotsu below and make a reservation in advance.

The operating schedule varies depending on the season, so please check before you depart.Transportation PagePlease check the official websites of each company for the latest information.

Summary | This year, experience hiking on snowy fields

At present, it is expected that the Hakuba Daisekkei Route will be passable this season...
However, the situation will change depending on the progress of snow melting, rising temperatures, and the weather during the rainy season. It is important to make flexible plans while keeping an eye on the weather and information..

If this is your first time walking on snow, why not take this opportunity to give it a try?
This is the season when alpine plants begin to bloom and the mountains awaken. Feeling the breath of nature, you will surely make an unforgettable memory as you make your way to the top of Mt. Hakuba, also known as Mt.Shirouma

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