Mount Hohdatsu (Ishikawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Noto Peninsula’s Highest Peak Climbing Courses, Access, and Attractions Thoroughly Explained
Mount Hohdatsu (ほうだつさん) is a mountain with an elevation of 637.1m located in central Ishikawa Prefecture, known as the highest peak of the Noto Peninsula. The mountain area spans Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town in Hakui County, Kahoku City, Tsubata Town in Kahoku County, as well as Himi City and Takaoka City in Toyama Prefecture, with the summit located in Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town.
Mount Hohdatsu, with its rich beech forests, has been designated as one of Japan’s “100 Water Source Forests” and offers diverse courses suitable for both beginner and experienced climbers. This article provides detailed explanations of Mount Hohdatsu’s appeal, climbing routes, access methods, history, and seasonal highlights.
Basic Information about Mount Hohdatsu
Geography and Overview
Mount Hohdatsu is the main peak of the Hohdatsu Hills, located at the base of the southern Noto Peninsula. Its silhouette can be seen from JR Nanao Line Hohdatsu Station and is cherished as a local symbol.
- Elevation: 637.1m
- Location: Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town, Hakui County, Ishikawa Prefecture (summit)
- Mountain Range: Ishikawa Prefecture (Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town, Kahoku City, Tsubata Town), Toyama Prefecture (Himi City, Takaoka City)
- Features: Highest peak of the Noto Peninsula, designated as one of Japan’s 100 Water Source Forests
Origin of the Mountain Name and History
The name of Mount Hohdatsu is said to be related to gold mines that were mined from the Tenshō era through the Edo period. This gold mine served as an important financial resource for the Kaga Domain, enriching the domain’s finances, and is said to have been named Mount Hohdatsu, meaning “the mountain where treasure is attained.”
During the Edo period, multiple gold mines existed, and at their peak, many miners worked there. Today, traces of tunnels and related structures from that era remain in the mountains, making it a place that evokes historical romance.
Designated 100 Water Source Forests and Beech Forests
Mount Hohdatsu was designated in 1995 by the Forestry Agency as one of Japan’s “100 Water Source Forests.” This recognition acknowledges its high water source conservation function and excellent forest environment.
Beautiful beech forests spread around the summit, forming a rich ecosystem. This beech forest is a precious existence within Ishikawa Prefecture, allowing visitors to enjoy natural beauty throughout the seasons. Particularly during the fresh greenery season and autumn foliage period, many climbers visit.
Mount Hohdatsu Climbing Courses
Multiple climbing routes are established on Mount Hohdatsu, allowing climbers to choose according to their skill level.
Main Climbing Courses List
1. Hohdatsu Summit Park Course (Most Popular)
This course offers the easiest access to the summit with vehicle access possible near the peak.
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Time Required: Approximately 15-20 minutes walk from parking lot to summit
- Features: Utilizes paved forestry road, suitable for families
- Access: Using Hohdatsu Summit Park parking lot
The summit park has rest facilities and observation decks, allowing visitors to easily enjoy views of the Noto Peninsula. On clear days, the observation deck offers a panoramic vista of the Tateyama Mountain Range, Mount Haku, and the Sea of Japan.
2. Higashima Route (Forestry Road Course)
A representative course climbing from the Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town side.
- Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
- Time Required: Approximately 2-3 hours one way
- Features: Uses forestry roads with gentle inclines, allows enjoying forest bathing
- Trailhead: Higashima district
This course features a relatively gentle slope, allowing hikers to enjoy nature while walking through beech forests. Along the way, historical structures such as gold mine ruins can be seen, making history exploration enjoyable.
3. Kahoku City Side Course
A route ascending from the Kahoku City side, characterized by varied terrain.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time Required: Approximately 2.5-3.5 hours one way
- Features: Some steep sections, providing a sense of mountaineering achievement
- Trailhead: Various trailheads within Kahoku City
4. Tsubata Town Side Course
An approach from Tsubata Town, offering quiet mountain walking.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time Required: Approximately 3-4 hours one way
- Features: Relatively few users, allows enjoying serene forests
Precautions While Climbing
- Winter Closure Period: From late November to mid-April, summit facilities are closed
- Weather Confirmation: Weather changes rapidly near the summit; check weather forecasts beforehand
- Equipment: Bring hiking shoes, rain gear, maps, and sufficient water
- Bear Precautions: Carrying bear bells is recommended
- Multiple Trail Junctions: Carefully check trail markers; consider hiking with experienced persons if uncertain
Sights at Mount Hohdatsu Summit
Summit Observation Deck
An observation deck is installed within the summit park, offering 360-degree panoramic views.
Observation Deck Hours:
- 9:00 AM-4:00 PM (mid-April to late November)
- Closed in winter (late November to mid-April)
On clear days, the following scenery can be viewed:
- North: Noto Peninsula coastline, Sea of Japan
- East: Tateyama Mountain Range, Toyama Bay
- South: Haku Mountain Range
- West: Ishikawa Prefecture inland plains
Ryugūjō (Rest Facility)
Near the summit, there is a rest facility called “Ryugūjō” with distinctive architecture. This facility serves as a rest area and gathering place for climbers. Its unique architectural style is cherished as a Mount Hohdatsu landmark.
Summit Park Facilities
- Parking Lot: Accommodates approximately 50 vehicles
- Restrooms: Public restrooms available (during operating season)
- Rest Areas: Benches and tables provided
- Information Boards: Climbing maps and surrounding information
Access Methods
By Car
From Kanazawa Area
- Exit at “Hohdatsu IC” on the Noto Satoyama Kaido highway
- Proceed toward Hohdatsu Summit Park via prefectural roads
- Time Required: Approximately 50 minutes from central Kanazawa
From Toyama Area
- From National Route 8 via prefectural roads
- Via Himi City and Takaoka City toward Mount Hohdatsu
- Time Required: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from central Toyama
By Public Transportation
Train
- JR Nanao Line “Hohdatsu Station” – Disembark
- From station to trailhead via taxi (approximately 15-20 minutes)
- Or possible to approach on foot (approximately 2 hours)
Bus
Public bus service is limited; it is recommended to confirm schedules beforehand. Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town community buses may be available.
Parking Information
- Hohdatsu Summit Park Parking Lot: Free, approximately 50 vehicles
- Various Trailheads: Small parking spaces available (several vehicles)
- Available Period: Mid-April to late November (closed in winter)
Mount Hohdatsu in Four Seasons
Spring (April-May)
Mountain opening ceremony is held in mid-April, beginning the climbing season. Fresh greenery begins to emerge, and beech forests become covered in vibrant green. Residual snow may remain, so equipment care is necessary.
- Highlights: Fresh green beech forests, alpine flowers
- Temperature: Around 5-15°C near summit
Summer (June-August)
A season to enjoy forest bathing surrounded by deep green. Relatively cool, also suitable for escaping summer heat.
- Highlights: Deep green beech forests, bird watching
- Temperature: Around 15-25°C near summit
- Precautions: Insect protection, water intake
Autumn (September-November)
The most popular season. From mid-October to early November, beech forests turn golden, offering spectacular autumn foliage.
- Highlights: Autumn foliage in beech forests, distant views from clear air
- Temperature: Around 5-15°C near summit
- Best Season: Mid-October to early November
Winter (December-March)
From late November, winter closure begins and summit facilities become unavailable. Winter mountaineering requires equipment and experience.
- Precautions: Winter closure period, summit facilities closed
- Climbing: Snowshoes or crampons necessary
- Recommendation: Experienced climbers only, avoid solo hiking
Tourist Spots Around Mount Hohdatsu
Attractions in Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town
Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town History and Folklore Museum
A facility to learn about gold mine history and regional culture. Gold mine-related materials and mining tools are displayed.
Roadside Station “Noto Senri-hama”
A roadside station worth stopping at on the way back from Mount Hohdatsu. Fresh local agricultural products and seafood can be purchased.
Attractions in Kahoku City
Keta Taisha Shrine
An ancient shrine known as the principal shrine of Noto Province. Popular as a power spot.
Chirihama Nagi-sa Drive Way
Famous as Japan’s only drivable sandy beach. Many tourists visit this popular spot combined with Mount Hohdatsu climbing.
Nature and Ecosystem of Mount Hohdatsu
Vegetation
Mount Hohdatsu’s vegetation changes by elevation.
- Low Mountain Zone (up to 400m): Plantations of cryptomeria and cypress, deciduous broadleaf trees like konara and kudzu
- Mountain Zone (400m and above): Deciduous broadleaf forests primarily composed of beech
- Near Summit: Beech, mizunara, maple species
The beech forest near the summit is particularly precious within Ishikawa Prefecture, with ancient trees over 100 years old present.
Animal Life
- Mammals: Japanese serow, Japanese macaque, wild boar, Japanese black bear
- Birds: Japanese pheasant, Japanese green woodpecker, lesser cuckoo, various wild birds
- Insects: Various butterfly and beetle species
Being a Japanese black bear habitat, appropriate measures such as carrying bear bells are necessary while climbing.
How to Enjoy Mount Hohdatsu Climbing
Beginner Plan
Time Required: Half day (3-4 hours)
- Park vehicle at Hohdatsu Summit Park parking lot
- Light hiking to summit observation deck (1 hour round trip)
- Enjoy lunch and scenery at summit
- After descending, visit nearby tourist attractions or hot springs
Experienced Climber Plan
Time Required: Full day (6-8 hours)
- Begin climbing from Higashima route or Kahoku City side
- Head toward summit while enjoying beech forests
- Have lunch and enjoy views at summit
- Enjoy loop course via alternate route
- Relieve fatigue with hot spring after descent
Photography Spots
- Summit Observation Deck: Panoramic scenery, sunrise and sunset
- Beech Forests: Fresh greenery and autumn foliage seasons
- Ryugūjō: Distinctive architecture
- Gold Mine Ruins: Historical structures
Nearby Hot Springs and Accommodations
Hot Spring Facilities
Shio-Sakura no Sato Hot Spring Kofun-no-Yu
A day-use hot spring facility in Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town. Perfect for relieving climbing fatigue.
Uchinada Hot Spring
Hot spring facilities in Kahoku City and Uchinada Town area. Bathing while enjoying ocean views is possible.
Accommodations
- Within Hohdatsu-Shimizu Town: Guesthouses, business hotels
- Kahoku City: Hotels, inns
- Kanazawa City: Diverse accommodations (approximately 1 hour by car)
Preparation and Equipment for Mount Hohdatsu Climbing
Basic Equipment
- Hiking Boots: Hiking shoes or higher grade (rock sections limited but grip strength important)
- Clothing: Quick-dry wear, warm clothing (varies by season)
- Rain Gear: Separable upper and lower rain wear
- Backpack: 20-30L capacity
- Drinking Water: 1-2L
- Provisions: Rice balls, bread, energy bars
- Map and Compass: Smartphone GPS app also effective
- Headlamp: Backup for sunset
- First Aid: Bandages, tape, common medications
- Bear Bell: Wildlife protection measures
Seasonal Additional Equipment
Spring and Autumn:
- Fleece or down jacket
- Gloves, hat
Summer:
- Sunscreen, hat
- Insect repellent spray
- Extra water
Winter (Experienced Climbers Only):
- Snowshoes or crampons
- Winter clothing (outer, inner layers)
- Goggles, gloves
History and Culture of Mount Hohdatsu
Gold Mine History
Mount Hohdatsu’s gold mines are said to have been discovered during the Tenshō era (1573-1592) and served as an important financial resource for the Kaga Domain throughout the Edo period. At their peak, multiple mines operated with many miners working there.
The gold mined contributed to the domain’s finances and the prosperity of “Kaga Hyakuman-goku” (Kaga’s Million Koku). Today, traces of tunnels and related facilities remain in the mountains, recognized for their value as industrial heritage.
Relationship with Local Community
Mount Hohdatsu has historically been an object of regional worship and possesses a history of mountain worship. Every spring, religious ceremonies for safety blessings are held during mountain opening, cherished by local residents.
Additionally, livelihoods utilizing mountain resources, such as forestry and charcoal production, have been practiced. Currently, it serves as a tourism resource and water source conservation forest, becoming an important presence for the region.
Precautions and Etiquette for Mount Hohdatsu Climbing
Climbing Etiquette
- Always Take Trash with You: For environmental conservation
- Stay on Marked Trails: To protect vegetation
- Exchange Greetings: With other climbers you meet
- Smoking Only in Designated Areas: Fire prevention
- Do Not Feed Wildlife: Ecosystem protection
Emergency Response
- Emergency Contact Numbers: 110 (Police), 119 (Fire Department)
- Nearest Police Box: Hakui Police Station
- Nearest Fire Station: Hakui County and City Comprehensive Fire Department
- During Accidents: Remain still, call for help via mobile phone
- Location Information: Utilize smartphone GPS features
Weather and Climbing Judgment
Although Mount Hohdatsu has relatively low elevation, weather near the summit changes easily. Climbing suspension or postponement is recommended in the following cases:
- Heavy rain or wind warnings are issued
- Thunderstorm advisories are in effect
- Typhoon approach
- Rough winter weather
Mount Hohdatsu and Surrounding Mountains
Mountains of the Noto Peninsula
While Mount Hohdatsu is the highest peak of the Noto Peninsula, fascinating mountains exist in the surrounding area.
- Goishi-ga-mine (461m elevation): Principal peak of the Mayoke Mountain System in Hakui City
- Takatume-yama (341m elevation): A famous mountain in northern Noto Peninsula
- Ishidō-yama (564m elevation): A historic mountain of mountain ascetic practices
Traverse and Loop Courses
For experienced climbers, traverse courses to surrounding mountains from Mount Hohdatsu are also enjoyable. Courses walking along the Hohdatsu Hills ridge offer varied scenery and a sense of accomplishment.
Conclusion
Though Mount Hohdatsu has an elevation of 637.1m, which is not particularly high, it possesses numerous attractions including the title of Noto Peninsula’s highest peak, beautiful beech forests, rich history, and magnificent views from the summit.
While beginners can easily enjoy the summit from the summit park, multiple climbing courses are established, allowing experienced climbers satisfying mountaineering. The abundant natural environment designated as one of Japan’s 100 Water Source Forests displays beautiful characteristics throughout the seasons.
Fresh greenery in spring, deep green in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and winter serenity. Mount Hohdatsu reveals different faces with each season, offering new discoveries with each visit. Its proximity to Kanazawa City—approximately one hour by car—is attractive, making it ideal for weekend day trips.
When visiting the Noto Peninsula, be sure to climb Mount Hohdatsu and enjoy the grand panorama of the Noto land and the Sea of Japan, with distant views of the Tateyama Mountain Range and Mount Haku. After climbing, relieve fatigue at nearby hot springs and savor local delicious seafood for a fulfilling day.
Mount Hohdatsu, true to its name meaning “mountain where treasure is attained,” is a famous mountain representing Ishikawa Prefecture where such precious experiences can be had.
