Mount Hakkai lies around 35km from Echigo-Yuzawa Station and is well-worth the effort of getting to. Home to one of Niigata’s best ski resorts, the large ‘Hakkaisan Ropeway’ – capable of carrying more than 80 passengers in the gondola – operates not just in winter but for most of the year. In doing so, the ropeway covers a distance of 221i metres and ascends 771 metres during its 4-minute journey as it arrives at the upper station located at 1417 metres.

From there, visitors can simply enjoy the view, exploring the alpine flower garden or walk the trails, noting that only experienced mountaineers should attempt the trails leading to the mountain summit at 1778 metres. The landscape is especially beautiful in autumn with the changing leaves while in winter, the ropeway is the main transport of Muikamachi Hakkaisan Ski Resort. Known for its deep powder, Hakkaisan is a great option of intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboards but beginners should stick to the lower green runs. For more information, see our ‘Yuzawa & Niigata Ski Resorts’ page.