We recommend travelers plan their travel to the Dewa Sanzan during Mt. Gassan’s official hiking season (July 1^st to September 15^th) if their goal is to complete the Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage in one-go (which means praying at each mountain’s shrine). But it is totally possible to enjoy the off-season as well if you don’t mind skipping the shrines that are closed past this date! In this short article we will be discussing a visit to the beautiful snow covered landscape of Mt. Haguro in the winter. 

A White Forest Covered in Pure White Snow

As the only mountain of the Dewa Sanzan open throughout the year, Mt. Haguro also makes for an excellent winter destination.

While it is impossible to promise with absolute certainty the snow conditions of the future, one can generally expect to see Mt. Haguro under the snow from December 15th to March 1st .

Those who expect to see a pure white blanket of snow covering the forest of Mt. Haguro for photography purposes or sightseeing, should remember that while there is still snow remaining in March, it will begin to melt and fall from the trees. This causes the snow on the trail and forest to be covered in branches and other debris which can affect its visual appeal.

For immaculate snow landscapes, please aim to visit from late December to mid February.

Access and Points of Caution

The bus connecting Mt. Haguro to Tsuruoka Station operates year round even during the winter.
You can check the bus timetable through Tsuruoka’s local bus company’s website:
https://www.shonaikotsu.jp/english/tourism/haguro_tt.html

Visitors to Mt. Haguro should be aware that there are times when it is not possible to climb up Mt. Haguro from the Zuishinmon Gate. This can occur in times of heavy snowfall when the deep snow impedes hiking up the path and also at times of sub zero temperatures when the stone steps themselves may be covered in ice which can be very dangerous.

Winter visits to Haguro also demand proper clothing and gear.
Visitors should have appropriate winter clothing with under thermal wear highly recommended.
Proper snow boots are also highly recommended to prevent snow from getting into your footwear and to provide proper traction for the snow.

We encourage travelers to check weather conditions and avoid climbing this mountain during times of extreme weather.