Hakkaisan Ropeway 八海山ロープウェー

At a height of 1,778 meters, Mt. Hakkai in Minamiuonuma City is one of the three mountains of Echigo, and the eight rocky peaks at its summit are said to be the symbol of this sacred mountain.

The ropeway goes up to the 4th station of Mt. Hakkai. From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a beautiful 360° panoramic view of the Joshinetsu mountains and, on a clear day, the Sea of Japan and Sado Island.

Accessible by train or car.

From Tokyo, take the shinkansen to Echigo-Yuzawa Station and transfer to the Joetsu Line or Hokuhoku Line to Muikamachi Station. Take the Mt. Hakkai Ski Resort Line bus and get off at the final stop. The trailhead is a six-minute walk.

Mt. Hakkai is about 20 minutes from the Muikamachi Interchange on routes 253 and 17.

Enjoy Mt. Hakkai's beauty by taking the Hakkaisan Ropeway with a ride on the aerial tramway that originally opened in 1983. Mainly used to transport skiers within Muikamachi Hakkaisan Ski Resort on the western slopes of Mt. Hakkai, but in spring and early summer, and the alpine flora blooms on the mountain and the temperature is 5-8°C cooler and more refreshing than at the foot of the mountain. In November, the contrast between the white snow and red the leaves near the top of Mt. Hakkai is stunning.

The ropeway operates from December to March in winter and May to November in summer and fall.

Climbing Mt. Hakkai is also possible, but recommended for experienced climbers only as the path gets very steep at times. In some areas the trail has nearly 90-degree climbs and you will have to use the chains provided. There are many steep ups and downs on this route, making it quite physically challenging.