Tucked into the mountains above Hakuba Village, Happo Pond is a small alpine lake with crystal-clear water that  that mirrors the dramatic peaks of the Northern Alps like a mirror. Its jaw-dropping beauty, combined with easy access by lift and a short hike, makes it a favorite for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers alike.

Why Happo Pond Is a Must-Visit in Hakuba

Happo Pond (Happo-ike), located at an altitude of about 2,060 m, is one of Japan’s most famous “mirror lakes.” On calm days, it reflects the majestic Hakuba Sanzan peaks—Mt. Shirouma, Mt. Yari, and Mt. Shakushi—creating unforgettable views. With its scenic landscape and relatively easy access, it’s one of the most popular hiking spots in the Japan Alps.

Best Time to Visit Happo Pond

Happo Pond is generally accessible from late June to mid-October, when the Happo Alpen Line (gondola and ski lifts) is in operation. Since the trail starts at the top lift station, hiking to the pond isn't possible outside this period unless you’re an experienced alpine climber.

Each season offers different highlights:

Hiking to Hakuba Happo Pond

Trail Overview

• Distance: About 1.5 km
• Elevation Gain: About 230 m
• Time required: About 1.5–2 hours uphill, 1 hour downhill

As mentioned earlier, the trailhead begins at Happo Ike Sanso Lodge, located at the top of the Grat Quad lift. To get there, take the Happo Alpen Line, which includes the Adam Gondola and two ski lifts: Alpen Quad and Grat Quad. These lifts bring you up to around 1,830 meters in about 20-25 minutes.

From the top station, it’s about a 1.5 km walk along a scenic ridgeline trail with a gentle elevation gain of around 230 meters. The full hike usually takes around 2.5 hours round-trip, making it a great option for casual hikers and families.

While the trail may feel a bit challenging for those who don’t usually exercise, you’ll often see energetic elementary school kids cheerfully outpacing adults. It’s also quite common to see active seniors in their 60s and 70s enjoying the hike at their own pace.

Before Hiking to Happo Pond

• You can get a simple trail map when purchasing your gondola or lift ticket, but the route is straightforward—just follow the people ahead. (See hiking map here)
• Be sure to check the lift closing time, as it changes depending on the season.
• Always check the weather before heading out. The trail is completely exposed, with no shelter from wind or rain.
• Even in summer, temperatures at this altitude can drop to single digits (Celsius), so pack warm layers just in case.
• There are two basic toilets available: one at Happo Ike Sanso Lodge and one partway along the trail.
• Avoid handbags and heels—don’t be misled by influencers in dresses posing by the pond. Dress appropriately for a mountain hike.
• There are coin lockers available at the gondola ticket office, Happo Bus Terminal, and Hakuba Station.

Hiking to Happo Pond

The hike begins at Happo-ike Sanso Lodge, situated directly in front of the highest ski lift station. The route features a blend of rocky paths and wooden boardwalks. Shortly after you begin the hike, the path splits into two routes:

• Left side: Mostly wooden boardwalks, which are easier and more stable to walk on.
• Right side: Rockier and uneven, requiring more attention to footing.

Happo-ike Sanso Lodge (left), souvenir shop and soft serve ice cream (right).

Both routes reconnect further up the trail, so feel free to choose whichever looks more comfortable for you. (See hiking map here)

Along the trail, you'll pass cairns (stone markers), alpine wildflowers in summer, and several vantage points with sweeping views. As you approach the pond, the ridgeline opens up to reveal the breathtaking Northern Alps.

This cairn looks funny and cute!

From late June to mid-July, you may even see patches of snow remaining along the trail.

Happo-One is located at the northern tip of the Northern Japan Alps. The ridgelines here stretch in eight directions, which is where the name “Happo-One” comes from (Happo = eight directions, One = ridge). According to the official brochure, you can see 11 of the famous “Japan’s 100 Mountains” from this trail. On exceptionally clear days, you might even spot Mount Fuji from cairn No.1.

The higher you go, the fewer tall trees you’ll see. Look down at the ground instead—you’ll notice tiny alpine flowers growing between the rocks. They're easy to miss, but worth the attention.

Eventually, after a short descent, you’ll arrive at the serene Happo Pond.

Even if it's cloudy when you arrive, don't give up—if you wait a little while, the clouds might drift away and give you a beautiful glimpse of the sky and peaks. Actually, the two photos below were taken just five minutes apart!

Even if you're not lucky enough to catch a perfect reflection of the mountains in the water, the mist and clouds hanging over the ridges give the area a magical, dreamlike feel. Standing in front of this scene makes you feel small, yet deeply connected to nature.

If you're planning to take a break around Happo Pond, be sure to prepare for strong winds. Windproof clothing is a must, even on calm-looking days.

Near the pond, you'll find a small stone shrine. This reflects traditional Shinto beliefs. In Japan, many people believe that kami—gods or spirits—reside in all things in nature: mountains, forests, rivers, and even the sea.

That's why it's very common to see small shrines like this on mountaintops and other scenic spots. These modest stone structures are quiet reminders of the deep spiritual connection between nature and Japanese culture.

How to Get to the Happo Pond

There are no direct buses or trains that go straight to the Happo Gondola Station, so you’ll first need to get to Hakuba village, either to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal or JR Hakuba Station. From there, it’s just a short ride by taxi to reach the gondola.

So let’s break this down into two parts:

1. Getting to Hakuba from major cities
2. Getting to Happo Gondola Station

Getting to Hakuba from major cities

Whichever transportation method you choose, you’ll want to arrive at either Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal or JR Hakuba Station.

Happo Bus Terminal (left), JR Hakuba Station (right).

From Nagano to Hakuba

Take the Nagano–Hakuba bus from Nagano Station. It stops at both Happo Bus Terminal and Hakuba Station.

From Matsumoto to Hakuba

• Option 1: Take the JR Oito Line from Matsumoto Station. At JR Shinano-Omachi Station, transfer to a train bound for Minami-Otari, then get off at Hakuba Station.
• Option 2: Take the Azusa Express train directly to Hakuba Station. This is easier but operates on limited days.

Note: A direct Matsumoto–Hakuba bus is available, but only during the winter season.

From Tokyo to Hakuba

• Option 1: Take the Shinjuku–Hakuba highway bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Happo Bus Terminal or Hakuba Station. This is the most affordable and involves fewer transfers.
• Option 2: Take the Shinkansen to Nagano Station, then transfer to the Nagano–Hakuba bus. This is the fastest but also the most expensive route.
• Option 3: Take the Azusa Express train from Shinjuku Station to Hakuba Station. Again, note that this train is limited and runs only during certain seasons.
  

From Hakuba to Happo Gondola Station

The easiest and most convenient option is to take a taxi from either the bus terminal or train station. Taxis are always waiting in front of Hakuba Station, so you can just hop in. If you’re traveling with a group, this is the best choice. A one-way fare from the station to Happo Gondola Station costs about ¥1,500. Shuttle buses are available, but they run infrequently and may not match your schedule.

You can also take a taxi from the Happo Bus Terminal, although taxis are not usually waiting there. Instead, you’ll find a free-dial taxi phone at the terminal. Just pick up the phone and tell the operator your name, the number of passengers, your queue card number (next to the phone), and your destination. The operators are used to assisting foreign travelers, and they may speak basic English, so don’t worry

By the way, the Happo Bus Terminal is closer to the gondola station than Hakuba Station, so the taxi fare is slightly cheaper.

Happo Pond is a small alpine spot that offers more than you'd expect — stunning views, changing seasonal landscapes, and easy access. Whether you visit in summer or autumn, it’s a perfect way to experience the magic of the Japanese Alps without a tough climb. If you're coming to Hakuba, don't miss the green season. It might just surprise you.

Read more articles about Hakuba:

• Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort: Nagano’s Must-Visit Spot After Kamikochi
• 5-Day Best of Nagano Itinerary: Matsumoto Castle, Kamikochi, Hakuba, Togakushi, and Nakasendo