Mt Hakuba-Norikura
& Mt Korenge

The Alpine lake at Hakuba‑Oike is one of the quiet gems of the North Alps. Although the ridge line is overshadowed by the towering presence of Mt Shirouma (白馬岳) to the south, the Hakuba‑Oike basin and its surrounding peaks of Mt Hakuba‑Norikura (白馬乗鞍岳) and Mt Korenge (小蓮華山) offer some of the most beautiful terrain in the range.

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The lake itself sits in a broad volcanic basin, its clear water reflecting the rugged skyline above. It’s a classic glacial‑alpine environment with shattered rock, pale granite, lingering snowfields and hardy plants clinging to thin soil. In summer, the meadows around the lake bloom with alpine flowers, and raichō rock ptarmigans often wander in the creeping pine. 

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The broad rocky summit of Mt Hakuba‑Norikura and the sharper Mt Korenge rise sharply above the basin, their ridges built from ancient volcanic layers and uplifted sedimentary rock. The geology here is complex and expressive with steep faces, broken cliffs and long ridgelines. These mountains are quieter than Shirouma, but their views are superb, especially across the northern Alps toward Goryu (五竜岳), Kashimayari (鹿島槍ヶ岳), and the distant spear of Yari (槍ヶ岳).

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Access is typically from the Tsugaike ropeway from where a long approach leads through forest, wetlands, a steep rocky scramble and eventually into the high alpine zone. It’s also possible to reach the area from Shirouma to the south, linking the peaks as part of a longer traverse. Next to the lake sits a mountain hut and a campsite, both offering simple accommodation in one of the most atmospheric basins in the Alps. This accommodation makes it possible to enjoy this area at leisure rather than a rushed day hike that would put you in danger of missing the last departure on the ropeway back down to Tsugaike village. Note that the Tsugaike Nature Park with its network of boardwalks and trails near the top of the ropeway is worth visiting if you have the time.

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The Hakuba‑Oike area an these two peaks may not have the fame of Shirouma, but the combination of geology, alpine lake scenery and quiet ridgelines make it one of my favourite parts of the North Alps.

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(All information here is based on personal observations and experiences. Check official sources before planning or starting any hikes.)