Mt. Gongen-dake
Mt. Gongen, known to the locals of Niigata Prefecture’s Itoigawa City as Hakusan, stands at 1,104 meters. As the foremost peak ahead of the famed Mt. Hoko-ga-take, Gongen-dake’s summit hosts a sacred shrine for Hakusan Gongen, reflecting the mountain’s spiritual significance.
The eastern slope showcases a vast collapsed wall, making the ascent a scenic journey past a series of intriguing rock formations named Womb Cave, Tengu Demon’s Residence, Scissor Rock, and Banzai Rock, leading to breathtaking panoramic views from the top.
Despite its beauty, Gongen-dake bears a somber history; a devastating avalanche struck the Maseguchi settlement in January 1986, claiming 13 lives.
In the embrace of the peak, efforts are dedicated to preserving the region’s botanical treasures, including the northernmost rhododendrons (Honshakunage) and the stately Enkianthus campanulatus (Sara-sa-doudan) trees, underscoring the ecological value of Gongen-dake.
For mountaineers, the climb commences from the Maseguchi settlement, following a rocky path alongside Yuzawa Stream. The trail demands skill and caution, rewarding hikers with approximately a 2.5-hour ascent through a natural landscape steeped in both wonder and reverence.
*Before heading out on a hike, make sure to stay updated with the latest information on trails and other important details.