The most difficult road to pass through in Hokkaido -- a road that many motorcyclists approach on tiptoe in the hopes of climbing -- has opened again this year. This road in the town of Higashikawa, Hokkaido, near where Mt. Taisetsu rises, is known as the "Phantom Path" and is open to traffic until Oct. 8.
Prefectural Road Route 1116 connects the towns of Higashikawa and Biei and the 12.4-kilometer section in Higashikawa was completed in 2012 to promote tourism. However, in 2013 it was discovered that some sections of the road were vulnerable to landslides, so the prefectural government closed the road and monitored groundwater levels. After the road was confirmed to be safe, the closure was lifted in September 2017.
In consideration of the safety risks resulting from Hokkaido's typically heavy snowfall and its thaw, it is only possible to pass through the Phantom Path for about one month out of the year from mid-September to mid-October. Additionally, even when the road is accessible it may be closed due to bad weather.
Thus this area's route has been dubbed "The most difficult road to pass through in Hokkaido" by internet commentators.
In keeping with most mountain roads, Phantom Path is packed with plenty of curves, inclines and declines, but Reiun Bridge helps it stand out with a view of picturesque Asahikawa City located about 15 kilometers away.
This year, the road closure was lifted on Sept. 8, and many riders rode up during a four-day holiday on Monday. A man in his 60s who rode from the town of Betsukai in eastern Hokkaido said, "I came across [the Phantom Path] on social media and I've been enjoying the precious time. I am glad that I could pass through for the first time."
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