Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road (Ishikawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Fees, Attractions, and Operating Periods Explained
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road is a 33.3 km mountain scenic drive route running along the north side of the sacred mountain Hakusan. Connecting the Ichirino and Nakamiya districts of Hakusan City in Ishikawa Prefecture with Shirakawa Village in Gifu Prefecture, known for its World Heritage status, this driving course winds through the Hakusan National Park between elevations of 600m to 1,450m, making it a popular spot where visitors can enjoy spectacular seasonal scenery and rich natural environments.
Long known by its former name “Hakusan Super Forest Road,” it was renamed the “Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road” on April 1, 2015, with toll fee reductions implemented at the same time. This change has made it easier for more tourists to visit, and the route has gained attention as both the shortest connection between Ishikawa and Gifu prefectures and as a spectacular driving course.
History and Overview of Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road (official name: Hakusan Forest Road) was constructed over 10 years to provide the shortest distance connection between Gifu and Ishikawa prefectures. Since beginning operation as a toll road in Showa 52 (1977), it has functioned as an important tourist route connecting both prefectures.
The road was developed as an expressway exclusively for automobiles, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich natural scenery unique to Hakusan National Park—beech virgin forests, alpine plants, and scenic valleys—from their vehicles. Of the approximately 33 km total length, the toll section spans about 24.5 km, managed from the toll booth on the Ishikawa side (Magari Toll Booth) to the toll booth on the Gifu side (Shirakawa-go Toll Booth).
The Only Tourist Road Through Hakusan National Park
Hakusan National Park spans Ishikawa, Fukui, Gifu, and Toyama prefectures and is one of Japan’s representative mountain parks. At its center, Hakusan (elevation 2,702m) ranks as one of Japan’s Three Sacred Mountains alongside Mount Fuji and Mount Tateyama, and has been revered as an object of faith since ancient times.
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road is the only automobile road through this national park, providing a valuable route where ordinary tourists can easily experience the magnificent natural scenery of Hakusan. The 850m elevation change along the route serves as a natural museum where visitors can experience changes in temperature and vegetation.
Toll Fees and Discount Campaigns
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road operates as a toll road with fees varying by vehicle type. Tolls were reduced when the road was renamed in 2015, making it more accessible.
Basic Fares (One-way)
- Regular cars: 1,700 yen
- Light vehicles: 1,400 yen
- Two-wheeled vehicles (125cc or larger): 600 yen
- Minibuses: 4,600 yen
- Large buses: 11,000 yen
Round-trip fares are double the one-way price. However, limited-period round-trip discounts may apply, so it’s recommended to check the official website in advance.
Advantageous Accommodation Campaigns
Ishikawa Prefecture operates campaigns where toll fees are waived or discounted for visitors staying at cooperating accommodation facilities in the prefecture. During the full-opening season, staying at eligible facilities can result in toll fees being waived—for example, regular cars’ 1,700 yen one-way toll becomes free, an excellent benefit.
By taking advantage of this campaign, you can enjoy a relaxing stay at a hot spring inn near Hakusan or at one of the Kaga hot spring resorts, then enjoy free driving on the White Road the next day. Information about eligible facilities and application conditions can be found on the official websites of the Hakusan Forest Road Ishikawa Management Office or Ishikawa Prefectural Tourism Association.
Operating Period and Hours
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road closes completely during winter due to heavy snowfall and operates only from June through November.
Operating Period
- Accessible period: Early June to mid-November (varies by year)
- Full opening date: Mid-June annually (around June 12)
- Closure period: Mid-November to early June of the following year
The opening day often features commemorative events attended by many drivers and motorcycle touring enthusiasts. Closure dates vary depending on snowfall conditions, so if visiting during the late autumn foliage season, it’s important to check in advance whether passage is possible.
Operating Hours
Operating hours vary by season.
- June to August: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- September to October: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- November: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The road is completely closed during nighttime hours, so it’s necessary to plan with adequate time margins. Whether traveling from the Gifu side to the Ishikawa side or vice versa, ensure you can pass through the toll booth before closing time.
Attractions and Viewpoints
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road features numerous spectacular viewpoints and natural attractions scattered along the route. Well-maintained observation platforms, waterfalls, and walking paths allow visitors to enjoy nature while driving.
Fukube Falls
The representative attraction on the Ishikawa side is “Fukube Falls,” which boasts a drop of 86 meters. Among seven waterfalls along the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road, this is the largest, and the water spraying down dramatically is awe-inspiring.
A walking trail connects from the parking area to the waterfall, accessible within minutes on foot. During the fresh green season, the surrounding verdant landscape is refreshing; during autumn foliage season, the colorful valley scenery is magnificent. Bathed in abundant negative ions while experiencing nature’s power, this is a recommended spot.
Uba Falls (Ubagataiki)
Selected as one of “Japan’s 100 Best Waterfalls,” Uba Falls is a signature waterfall of the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road. With a drop of 76 meters, the water cascades down the rocky surface like white cloth, and the name “Uba Falls” comes from its appearance resembling a white-haired elderly woman.
Visitors can walk behind the waterfall from the parking area, making it known as a “back-view waterfall.” The view from behind the waterfall is mystical, with water serving as a curtain creating a fantastical atmosphere. It’s popular as a trekking course with a well-maintained 15-minute walking trail one way.
Sanpo Rock Parking Area (Highest Point)
Located at 1,450 meters elevation, Sanpo Rock Parking Area is the highest point on the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road. From here, you can view a magnificent panorama of the Hakusan mountain range, including Gozennmine (2,702m), the main peak of Hakusan.
On clear days, you may see the Northern Alps in Gifu Prefecture and even the Japan Sea on the Ishikawa side. A observation platform is installed at the parking area, making it a popular photo spot. Even in summer, the weather is cool, and during the alpine flower season, you can observe delicate blooms.
Shirakawa-go Observation Platform
From the Shirakawa-go Observation Platform on the Gifu side, you can overlook the Shirakawa-go gassho-zukuri farmhouse village registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site. This excellent viewpoint allows a bird’s-eye view of the unique landscape where these traditional houses are scattered.
Particularly striking are the autumn foliage season and the snowy winter landscape (in late autumn before closure), which showcase exceptional beauty. The observation platform has parking space where you can leisurely enjoy the view. Visiting before heading to Shirakawa-go or before entering the White Road deepens travel memories.
Hakusan Observation Platform
The Hakusan Observation Platform offers views of Hakusan’s main peak, Gozennmine, and surrounding mountains at close range. The scenery of beech virgin forest spreading as a vast sea of trees is also magnificent, displaying different appearances seasonally.
The appeal lies in enjoying completely different scenery depending on visitation timing—fresh green in early summer, deep green in summer, and autumn foliage. The walking trail from the parking area to the observation platform is flat and easy to enjoy.
Oyatani Hot Spring (Oyatani-no-yu)
Oyatani Hot Spring is a natural hot spring source along the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road. Walking a five-minute trail from the parking area brings you to hot water bubbling up alongside the stream.
While not a bathing facility, it functions as a foot bath where you can soak your hands and feet. You can soothe driving fatigue while experiencing the benefits of natural hot springs surrounded by nature. Benches are installed nearby, making it an ideal rest stop.
Trekking Courses and Hiking
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road serves not only as a driving destination but also as a base for trekking and hiking. Walking trails extending from each parking area offer courses suitable for beginners through intermediate hikers.
Uba Falls Trekking Course
The course starting from Uba Falls Parking Area is an accessible 15-minute trekking course one way. Walking on a well-maintained trail, you can reach behind the waterfall. You can enjoy forest bathing in an environment rich with negative ions.
Beech Virgin Forest Walking Course
The area around Sanpo Rock Parking Area offers courses for walking through beech virgin forests. Walking through a forest with centuries-old giant beech trees creates an almost otherworldly, mystical atmosphere.
During fresh green season, young leaves are beautiful; in autumn, the foliage glows golden yellow. Trail signs guide visitors safely, with consideration given to accessibility.
Alpine Plant Observation Course
Higher elevation areas allow for alpine plant observation during summer. Plants include Hakusan Evening-Primrose, Japanese False Hellebore, and False Hellebore, along with colorful wildflowers lining the hiking trail.
Even those unfamiliar with plants can enjoy and learn from installed information boards and explanatory panels. Many visitors are seen photographing flowers with cameras.
Seasonal Enjoyment
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road offers different charms each season. Visiting at different times reveals completely different landscapes, with new discoveries on each visit.
Early Summer (June-July): Fresh Green and Snow Patches
Just after full opening in June, snow remains visible on mountains. The contrast between vibrant new green and white snow is beautiful, and driving is pleasant in the fresh mountain air.
Snowmelt increases waterfall volume, making Fukube Falls and Uba Falls display their most powerful forms. Alpine plants begin blooming, allowing visitors to feel nature’s vitality.
Summer (July-August): Cool Retreat and Alpine Flowers
Summer offers cool temperatures at high elevation, making it ideal for escaping summer heat. Even when lowlands experience extreme heat, the White Road maintains comfortable temperatures. Alpine flowers reach peak beauty, with colorful blooms flourishing.
The season is optimal for trekking and hiking, suitable for families and groups. Early mornings may bring sea-of-clouds phenomena, offering chances for fantastical views.
Autumn (September-November): Magnificent Foliage
The foliage season brings the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road’s highest visitor numbers. Coloring begins in late September, reaching peak around mid-October. Beech, rowan, and Dake birch turn red and yellow, transforming the entire mountain into a beautiful brocade-like landscape.
The elevation difference means foliage progression varies by location, allowing visitors to experience various foliage displays in a single drive. The Sanpo Rock Parking Area and Uba Falls areas are particularly renowned foliage destinations.
Weekends and holidays see crowding, so weekday and early morning visits are recommended. In late foliage season, temperatures drop and road icing becomes possible, requiring winter tires and appropriate cold-weather clothing.
Access Methods and Surrounding Tourism
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road is accessible from both Ishikawa and Gifu sides. The route and surrounding attractions differ depending on your entry point.
Access from Ishikawa Side
From Kanazawa area
- Approximately 45 minutes via National Route 157 from “Hakusan IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 50 km to Magari Toll Booth (Ishikawa-side entrance)
The Ishikawa side entrance is in the Ozoe district of Hakusan City, accessing via the Ichirino and Nakamiya areas. Scattered nearby are Hakusan-slope hot springs like Ichirino Hot Spring and Nakamiya Hot Spring, where visitors can enjoy bathing and day-use facilities.
Access from Gifu Side
From Takayama area
- Approximately 10 minutes via National Route 156 from “Shirakawa-go IC” on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 5 km to Shirakawa-go Toll Booth (Gifu-side entrance)
The Gifu side entrance is in Shirakawa Village, near the World Heritage gassho-zukuri farmhouse village. Many tourists combine Shirakawa-go sightseeing with the White Road, with visiting farmhouses before driving the route being a popular itinerary.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Ishikawa side
- Hakusan Hime Shrine: The Grand Shrine of Hakusan faith
- Hakusan Dinosaur Park Shiramine: Dinosaur fossil exhibition facility
- Ichirino Highland: Ski resort and hot spring facilities
- Kaga Hot Spring Towns: Yamashiro, Yamanaka, Katayamazu hot springs, etc.
Gifu side
- Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village: World Cultural Heritage
- Historic Takayama: Old-town streets and Hida beef cuisine
- Gokayama Gassho-zukuri Villages: Toyama Prefecture World Heritage sites
Cuisine and Souvenir Information
The area surrounding Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road offers abundant regional cuisine and souvenirs.
Ishikawa Side Cuisine
- Hakusan hard tofu: Traditional firm tofu from Hakusan foothills
- Iwana (char) dishes: Salt-grilled or sashimi of iwana raised in clear streams
- Mountain vegetable cuisine: Local vegetables like bracken, ostrich fern, and aralia shoots
- Kaga vegetables: Traditional Kanazawa vegetables in various dishes
Gifu Side Cuisine
- Hida beef: Brand wagyu steak and grilled meat
- Magnolia leaf miso: Miso grilled in magnolia leaves
- Goheimochi: Mochi with savory-sweet walnut or sesame sauce
- Red turnip pickles: Traditional Hida preserved vegetables
Recommended Souvenirs
- Hakusan natural water: Products using Hakusan snowmelt water
- Hakusan Hime-related goods: Talismans and charms from Hakusan Hime Shrine
- Gassho-zukuri motif crafts: Souvenirs uniquely representing Shirakawa-go
- Hida regional sake: Ishikawa’s sake and shochu
Precautions and Safety Information
To safely enjoy the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road, note the following points.
Driving Precautions
- Numerous curves: Mountain roads feature sharp curves and consecutive bends. Avoid excessive speed and watch for oncoming traffic.
- Wildlife: Japanese monkeys, Japanese serows, and bears may appear. Particularly in early morning and evening, caution is necessary.
- Weather conditions: High elevation means changeable weather with possible fog. During poor visibility, use headlights and reduce speed.
- Road conditions: Rain makes surfaces slippery. Early season or late season closure approaches bring cold temperatures with possible icing.
Clothing and Supplies
- Warm clothing: Despite summer season, high elevation can bring low temperatures. Bring a jacket.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Trekking and waterfall viewing require non-slip footwear.
- Rain gear: Changeable weather makes rainwear or umbrellas advisable.
- Beverages and snacks: Few vending machines or shops along the route, so prepare in advance.
Cellular Reception
In mountainous terrain, some areas lack cellular coverage. Prepare contact information and confirm details before traveling for emergencies.
Events and Special Programs
Various events occur along the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road during the season.
Full Opening Commemorative Events
Commemorative events sometimes occur on the annual full-opening day in June. Prizes for early arrivals, memorial gifts distribution, and local specialty sales create bustling crowds.
Foliage Night Lighting (Irregular)
Some facilities and observation platforms conduct nighttime foliage illumination during the season. While night travel is normally prohibited, special periods may extend hours—check the official website.
Montbell Friend Shop Benefits
Montbell Club members receive benefits at Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road. Member card presentation provides toll discounts and original merchandise gifts.
Basic Information
Name: Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road (formerly: Hakusan Super Forest Road)
Official Name: Hakusan Forest Road
Total Length: 33.3 km (Toll section: approximately 24.5 km)
Elevation: 600m to 1,450m
Operating Period: Early June to mid-November (varies annually)
Operating Hours: Season-dependent (7:00 AM-6:00 PM, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM)
Fares (One-way)
- Regular cars: 1,700 yen
- Light vehicles: 1,400 yen
- Two-wheeled vehicles: 600 yen
- Minibuses: 4,600 yen
- Large buses: 11,000 yen
Management Office
Hakusan Forest Road Ishikawa Management Office
Address: Ozoe, Hakusan City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Phone: 076-256-7341 (during operating period)
Official Website: https://hs-whiteroad.jp/
Access
- Ishikawa side: Approximately 45 minutes from “Hakusan IC” on Hokuriku Expressway
- Gifu side: Approximately 10 minutes from “Shirakawa-go IC” on Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
Parking: Free parking at major viewpoints
Restrooms: Located at main parking areas
Summary
The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road is a spectacular 33.3 km driving course connecting Ishikawa and Gifu prefectures. Running through the rich natural environment of Hakusan National Park, it features numerous seasonal attractions including Fukube Falls and Uba Falls, beech virgin forests, and alpine plants.
Operating from June through November, the route offers different attractions each season—fresh green in early summer, alpine flowers in summer, and foliage in autumn. One-way tolls for regular cars are 1,700 yen, but campaigns make passage free for those staying at cooperating Ishikawa accommodation facilities.
Combining with nearby attractions like the World Heritage Shirakawa-go, historic Kanazawa, Kaga hot spring towns, and Takayama creates more comprehensive travel plans. Beyond driving, trekking, hiking, and hot springs provide diverse enjoyment options.
Why not create unforgettable memories of magnificent Hakusan nature driving on the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road?
