Salt Road Trek
The Salt Road Trek
Walk the historic Shio-no-Michi and discover Hakuba's rich mountain heritage.
The Salt Road (Shio-no-Michi) is one of Hakuba's most significant historical walking trails, following the route once used to transport salt from the Sea of Japan through the Northern Alps. Today, it offers a peaceful way to experience the region's culture, history and natural beauty during the Green Season.
A Journey Through History
For centuries, porters carried heavy loads of salt along this important trade route, travelling between coastal villages and inland communities. As you walk the trail, you'll pass centuries-old stone Buddha statues, traditional villages, cedar forests and picturesque rice paddies that have changed little over time.
The Route
While the complete trail stretches 120km through the Japanese Alps, Hakuba and nearby Otari hold the best-preserved sections. These accessible paths wind through classic satoyama scenery: majestic cedar forests, terraced rice paddies shimmering in sunlight, and picturesque thatched-roof hamlets, making them ideal for relaxed exploration without strenuous hiking.
Salt Road Festival
If you're visiting during Golden Week (3–5 May), don't miss the annual Salt Road Festival, where locals celebrate Hakuba's history with traditional costumes, cultural performances and guided walks along sections of the historic trail.
FAQs
How do I obtain a ski liftpass for use on all of the ski fields in the Hakuba Valley?
You can purchase your lift tickets online or at the ticket office for each of the ski fields. The following link will provide all of the details for ordering your lift ticket online:
The most cost effective pass in Hakuba is the All-Mountain Season Pass which offers early bird discounts:
If you are arriving into Hakuba and using your ‘Epic Pass’ then this can be validated at the Nikayama ticket office, Gondola station or the Happo Bus terminal, just take a form of ID and you can redeem your Hakuba mountain pass for 5 consecutive days on the slopes.
Lift passes will activate as soon as you go through the turnstile, so please keep this in mind if arriving in the afternoon, as this will forfeit your full day of your pass. Please note that night skiing is also not included in the Hakuba Valley All Mountain Lift Passes but can be purchased on the evening at the chair lifts for 2,100 Yen.
Lift passes that are issued are strictly non-refundable, non-transferable and non-replaceable. If they get lost, unfortunately you will have to buy a new pass, so it is recommended to keep the lift pass in a left-side ski jacket pocket that keeps the lift pass safe. Lift passes should be kept away from metal objects such as coins and mobile phones to avoid scanning issues or deactivation.
Does Hakuba Platinum offer a ski hire service?
Our concierge can assist you with all your ski hire requirements. Please advise them upon your check in or when they reach out regarding your arrival destination so they can assist you.
Can you assist me in organising ski lessons for my group?
Our concierge can assist you with all your ski lessons. Please advise them upon your check in or when they reach out regarding your arrival destination so they can assist you.
During the winter peak season it is best to prebook your lessons online if you want a private group lesson. Hakuba Snow Ski School
If you wish to organise your own lessons, the closest ski school to Hakuba Platinum is located at the Iimori Snow Resort. They are located on the left as you enter the ski field next to the carpark in front of the ski lift.
Is there a shuttle service provided by Hakuba Platinum?
Please ask our concierge for a timetable and directions upon your arrival.
Is Hakuba Platinum a ski in ski out resort?
While Hakuba Platinum is not ski-in/ski-out, it is conveniently located approximately 200 metres from the Goryu Escal Plaza ski lift.
- A scenic forest trail leads from the rear of the hotel for ski access
- The local Goryu Escal Plaza shuttle bus stops 50 metres from the front entrance
- Please see our concierge for shuttle timetables and directions