[Nagano Prefecture] Hakuba Happoike: Enjoy the spectacular reflections of the lake in the sky
by タビノモリ
Oct 29, 2025
#AutumnFoliageSeason
Located at 2,060m above sea level on the Hakuba Ridge in Nagano Prefecture, Happoike Pond is a sky-high lake.
On clear, windless days, the Hakuba Sanzan mountains spread out before your eyes, reflected in the water, creating a spectacular reflection.
*When I visited, there was wind, so I couldn't see the reflection...
You can also easily take a lift from the base of the mountain to Happoike Mountain Lodge at 1,860m above sea level.
From the lodge, you can take a shortcut up the steep ridge, taking a clockwise route (approximately 60 minutes each way), or a leisurely 90-minute walk along the boardwalk to enjoy the views. There's a clockwise hiking trail about 10 minutes away.
If you're lucky, you can even see a sea of clouds.
You can also enjoy the beautiful alpine plants in summer and the spectacular autumn foliage in autumn.
Sneakers are fine for the boardwalk trail, but the clockwise trail is rocky and scree-filled, so proper trekking shoes are recommended.
Location: Happoike Pond, Hakuba Village, Azumino District, Nagano Prefecture
Access: Approximately 1 hour by car from Nagano Interchange on the Nagano Expressway, or approximately 20 minutes by gondola and lift from Happo Station on the Happo Alpine Line.
#NaganoPrefecture #MountainClimbing #AutumnFoliage #StunningViews #Hiking
Post by タビノモリ | Oct 29, 2025












