The surrounding area is deep snow country. This mountain is famous for the many alpine plants found above the tree line. The Siberian Dwarf Pine can be seen here, together with fauna such as the Rock Ptarmigan. There are several climbing routes to the top of the mountain, principally from Sasagemine after the annual spring re-opening of the road. The Kōya-ike pond along the route is noted for its autumn foliage.[6] Accommodation in the alpine environment are the Kōya mountain hut with campground, and the Kurosawa-ike hut also with campground. Both are located is to the southeast of the peak on the mountain trail system.
Sumie Tanaka selected this mountain as one of the "100 famous flower mountains of Japan". She described the Hakusankozakura (ハクサンコザクラ) (Primula cuneifolia, Ledeb. var. hakusanensis Makino) as a representative flower.[citation needed]