During the green season, usually between June and October, Hakuba Happo-one’s most popular and picturesque trekking route takes hikers through the Chubu Sangaku National Park. Start your journey at the Happo Ike Sanso Station, the final stop of the Happo Alpenline and the Kurobishi line. On a clear day, you will be able to gaze out over 100 of Japan’s most picturesque mountains, including the iconic Mt. Fuji.
The hike leads you through lush green highlands, with plenty of endemic alpine plants, which have been designated Natural Monuments of Nagano Prefecture. With a little bit of luck, you can even watch Japanese serows and snow grouses in their natural surroundings.
After an ascent of around 90 minutes, you’ll come to the crystal-clear Happo Pond, also known as the observation platform of Japan’s Northern Alps. At an altitude of 2,060 m, you’ll be wowed by breathtaking views of the Shirouma Sanzan mountain range and the sky, reflecting in the pond’s deep blue water. Take a break at one of the big rocks around the pond and enjoy the fresh summer breeze high up in the mountains.