GUNMA

Mt. Asama Magma Stone Park

Volcanoes and unforgettable landscapes in Gunma

Visit Joshin’etsukogen National Park in the volcanic highlands of the Kanto region to discover a stunning display of natural phenomena. Not only is Gunma famous for hot spring resorts, world-class skiing, plentiful hiking trails and diverse wildlife, it is also the location of several volcanoes, making Mt. Asama Magma Stone Park a unique and wonderful destination for both adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Nature & Outdoor Activities Experience Scenery

Access

A Tale of Volcanoes and Demons

Adventure into the depths of Joshin'etsukogen National Park to visit the famed Onioshien, a park that celebrates natural phenomena and volcanic rock formations. As you step into this park located in the foothills of Mt. Asama, you will soon understand why it was named “onioshidashi” in Japanese (meaning “to push out a demon”). The actual origins of the name are unclear, though it was traditionally believed that demons lived on Mt. Asama. An active volcano, Mt. Asama has seen many volcanic eruptions that have shaken the earth and filled the sky with ash, it may not be so difficult to see why locals also named the area Onioshidashi park. Today, the only demons here are the colorful statues that you can take pictures with!

The Formation of Mt. Asama Magma Stone Park's Unique Landscape

Mt. Asama is one of the most active volcanoes on Honshu, and what visitors see today are the remnants of the last big eruption in 1783. The powerful explosion sent lava approximately 5.5 kilometers north of the peak, covering an area of around 6.8 square kilometers. Lava flowed down the sides of the mountain and eventually cooled and hardened, forming the black igneous rock that has remained there for hundreds of years. Weathering from wind and rain gradually changed the shape of the rocks into the artistic formations that dot the landscape, creating an amazing photo opportunity for photography enthusiasts!

Four Seasons of Natural Wonder and Outdoor Activities

Follow the walking paths around the park to see a delightful range of alpine plants and seasonal flowers, grab a bite to eat at the restaurant or coffee shop, or stop in for a look at Asamayama Kannondo Temple, a temple dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. There are several paths varying in length, making it accessible to people of various ages and levels of fitness. The somewhat desolate landscape surrounding Mt. Asama is framed with lush alpine greenery and stunning flowers in the spring and summer. A visit during autumn promises fall foliage, and a winter visit offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are several onsen resorts that will melt your worries away. Open all year round, you can make your way to Mt. Asama Magma Stone Park at your leisure, as it is easily accessible from Tokyo.

Access to Mt. Asama Magma Stone Park

Mt. Asama Magma Stone Park can be easily accessed from Tokyo Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen, which stops at Takasaki Station. Here, transfer to the local Manza-Kazawaguchi train on the Agatsuma Line to Manza-Kazawaguchi Station. From there, the park is 25 minutes by bus. Another option is to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa Station then take a bus for around 40 minutes to the park.

Address

1053 Kanbara, Tsumagoi, Agatsuma, Gunma 3771593

Contact

Tel: +81 279-86-4141

Business hours

Operating Period: Open year-round

Business Hours: 8:00 - 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)

2nd Floor Observation Restaurant
Coffee Service: 10:00 - 11:00
Restaurant Service: 11:00
*Closed on Wednesdays (may vary, please inquire for details).

WEB site

https://www.princehotels.co.jp/amuse/onioshidashi/