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Drive Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road with Kagari Kisshotei

The Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road serves as a primary scenic artery connecting Ishikawa and Gifu prefectures. Spanning 33.3 kilometers through Hakusan National Park, the route reaches altitudes between 600 and 1,450 meters, offering distinct seasonal transitions from the deep verdure of summer to the vivid foliage surrounding the World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go in autumn.

A car parked at Kunimi Observatory overlooking a sea of clouds
The Kunimi Observatory offers views of the sea of clouds along the route.

The Alpine Route Through Hakusan National Park

Navigating the White Road allows travelers to witness rare geological and atmospheric phenomena. Highlights include the Kunimi Observatory, known for its frequent morning sea of clouds, and the various waterfalls that line the cliffsides. The road is a vital link for those moving between the historic *onsen* (hot spring) towns of Kaga and the traditional thatched-roof villages of Gifu.

Aerial view of the winding Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road
The 33.3 km route features dramatic elevation changes and hairpin turns.

Regional Support for the Self-Drive Traveler

To encourage exploration of the Hokuriku and Gifu regions, Kagari Kisshotei has introduced a dedicated drive support plan available from July through October 2026. The package covers the one-way toll for standard vehicles (1,700 yen) on the White Road and includes a 2,000 yen gasoline voucher per room. To facilitate local discovery, guests receive the “Kaga Yunomeguri Machiaruki-cho,” a booklet containing tickets for local gourmet items and access to public baths in the Yamanaka Onsen area.

Local gourmet tickets and guidebook for Yamanaka Onsen
The inclusion of a local guide booklet encourages exploration of the town.

Riverside Hospitality in Yamanaka Onsen

Located along the Kakusenkei Gorge, Kagari Kisshotei is a *ryokan* (traditional inn) where rooms and communal baths are positioned to overlook the river. The stay experience includes several complimentary hospitality services, such as a 90-minute free-flow drink service during dinner, an evening Happy Hour featuring cocktails, and a nightly “Kaga Pudding” made with local milk. On weekends, the atmosphere is further defined by performances of traditional Kaga Taiko drums.

Open-air rock bath overlooking a green river gorge
Open-air baths provide views of the Kakusenkei Gorge.

Dining at the property focuses on regional flavors, with *kaiseki* (multi-course) meals served at Dining Kaga-tobi. The menu often features seasonal seafood and mountain vegetables, reflecting the geography of Ishikawa Prefecture.

A kaiseki meal spread with various small dishes and a hot pot
Dinner at Dining Kaga-tobi features seasonal regional cuisine.
A jar of Kaga Pudding on a lacquer tray
Kaga Pudding is served as a complimentary nightly treat.
Exterior of Kagari Kisshotei with a large crab statue at the entrance
Kagari Kisshotei is situated in the heart of Yamanaka Onsen.

Property details

Property
Kagari Kisshotei
Address
Yamanaka Onsen, Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Access
30 minutes by car from Kaga-Onsen Station; 45 minutes from Komatsu Airport (Free scheduled shuttle available with advanced reservation)
Official site
https://kagari-kisshotei.com/english/
Rooms
48
Pricing
From 22,000 yen (2 guests per room), 20,000 yen (3 guests per room), 19,000 yen (4 guests per room). Prices are per person, including tax and service charge, excluding 150 yen bath tax.

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Area: Ishikawa