Tateyama Bessan Loop (Toyama)

Apr 15, 2023
2 min read

Updated: Jan 24

The Tatayama 3015m to Bessan 2880m loop is an intermediate hike around the Tateyama plateau. The hike is possible once the Kurobe Alpine Route opens.

Because of the easy access the first part of the hike is incredibly busy during summer. If possible it’s best to go early or during the week.

Until the end of June winter gear like crampons and axe is needed.

			
⏲︎	Time: 6-7h
✎	Kanji: 立山
⚲ 	Location: Nagano
↔	Distance: 10km
✮	Difficulty: Intermediate
ᨒ	Elevation Gain: 1000m
☀	Dayhike
☉	Hiking Season: Mid April to
	November

Access

From Toyama side at Tateyama station or Nagano side at Shinano Omachi only by public transportation through the Kurobe Alpine Route.

Reserve your tickets online beforehand. The early morning slots are often sold out and you might have to wait a while or not be able to board at all if it's really busy.

Trail description

Start from Murodo (室堂) and make your way up to Mt. Onanji (大汝山). Depending on your stamina and the snow level it should take about 2h to the peak.

Then follow the ridgeline until Bessan which is another 2h. Continue on the ridge until

Tsurugisawakoya and descent back to Murodo.

The descent back down is steep and depending on the snow levels there might be no tracks and avalanche danger.

Early in the season or from April till the end of June this route requires winter mountaineering experience . Snowstorms until May are not uncommon and conditions can be harsh even when the rest of Japan already feels sunny and warm. Make sure to bring an ice axe and crampons until end of June.

Accomodation

There are multiple hut along this route to turn it into an overnight hike or to see the sunrise. The huts around Murodo also have Onsen and it’s possible to take a bath before you take the Kurobe Alpine Route back (e.g. Renpo for 700¥)

Popular huts

Raichozawa Hutte (9800Y incl. 2 meals)

Tsurugigozengoya (12500Y incl. 2 meals/ +1500Y in April, May, June)

Reservation for huts are required. Some huts around Tateyama and Murodo also require a deposit that needs to paid via bank transfer.