Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Akagi is a compound volcanic massif that spans Maebashi City in Gunma Prefecture and surrounding cities and towns. It has long been beloved as one of the three Jomo mountains (Mount Akagi, Mount Haruna, and Mount Myogi). Home to the caldera lake Onuma, highlands, lush forests and grasslands, the area offers a variety of seasonal natural attractions, including mountain climbing, hiking, driving, autumn foliage, snowscapes, and winter icy views (such as the frozen Onuma lake). The foot of the mountain is easily accessible to Akagi Shrine and other religious sites, tourist facilities, ranches, and hot springs, making it an area that combines leisure, faith, and nature observation.
Highlights
- Lake Onuma and Akagi ShrineThe tranquil scenery of the caldera lake and Akagi Shrine (approach and vermilion torii gate) on the lakeside are popular photo spots.
- Hiking and mountain climbing courses: There are a variety of trails to choose from, from beginner-friendly lakeside walks to full-scale ridgeline hiking. You can enjoy the views of the plateau and from the summit.
- Akagi Kogen Ranch (Cronenberg, etc.): There are tourist ranches and flower fields that are popular with families, as well as facilities where you can interact with animals.
- Drives and Viewpoints: The winding roads around Mount Akagi and the view of Joshu from the observation deck are particularly spectacular in the autumn foliage season.
- A winter traditionDuring the cold winter months, Lake Onuma sometimes freezes over, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery on the ice and some ice leisure activities (limited depending on the season and operating conditions).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus: JR Maebashi Station and JR Shibukawa Station are the main entrances. From these stations, you can access Mount Akagi by seasonal route buses and local buses. You can also access the area from Akagi Station on the Jomo Electric Railway by transferring (please check the operating status in advance).
- car: Approximately 40-70 minutes via national and prefectural roads from Maebashi IC or Shibukawa Ikaho IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway (depending on the starting point and traffic conditions). Please drive carefully as there are mountainous and narrow roads.
- Estimated distance from the city center: From Tokyo, it generally takes around 2 hours by train or car (this may vary depending on traffic conditions).
- *Please note that bus service numbers and winter road restrictions are subject to change, so please check the latest timetables and road information before setting off.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Stroll around Onuma and Akagi Shrine: 1-2 hours
- A drive around Akagi Highlands Ranch and observation spots + a short walk: Half a day (3-4 hours)
- Full-scale mountain climbing to the summit or ridgeline (round trip): Approximately 4 to 7 hours depending on the course
- Viewing autumn leaves and freezing snow + relaxing at nearby hot springs: 1 night (we recommend using nearby hot springs)
Nearby spots
- Ikaho Onsen (approximately 30-50 minutes by car): This historic hot spring town offers hot spring baths and stone steps.
- Mount Haruna and Mount Myogi (other mountains of the Jomo Sanzan): You can visit both by driving or hiking.
- Akagi Kogen Ranch (Kronenberg, etc.): A tourist ranch and experience facility for families.
- Maebashi and Shibukawa tourist attractions (historical sites, gourmet spots, etc.): Convenient as a base for sightseeing.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: Parking lots tend to fill up quickly, especially during the autumn foliage season, weekends, and holidays. Please consider leaving early and using public transportation.
- Weather and clothing: The weather in the mountains is changeable and the temperature is lower than at the foot of the mountain, so be sure to bring layers and wind and cold protection.
- Winter road conditions and traffic restrictions: Roads may be closed due to snow or ice, and winter tire (chain) restrictions may be in place. Please check road information in advance.
- Nature Conservation and Manners: Always take your trash with you and avoid harming plants and animals. When hiking, don't forget to submit a hiking plan and prepare your equipment.
- Ice Safety: Lake Onuma does freeze over, but the thickness of the ice and its safety vary greatly from day to day. If you go out onto the ice, be sure to follow the instructions of local guides and managers (do not go out if it is dangerous).
Mount Akagi is a mountain range with its own charm in each season. Please plan your itinerary according to your purpose (walking, photography, mountain climbing, visiting a ranch, or combining a visit to a hot spring), and check the latest traffic and weather information to ensure a safe trip.
