Mount Akagi: A Scenic Escape in Gunma Prefecture
Mount Akagi (赤城山), located in Gunma Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most accessible and rewarding volcanic mountains. Known for its broad caldera, alpine lakes, and panoramic views of the Kanto Plain, Mount Akagi hiking offers a perfect balance between nature, culture, and ease of access. Whether you’re a beginner hiker or a seasoned mountain lover looking for a relaxed day trip from Tokyo, Mount Akagi is a destination that quietly surprises.
Standing at 1,828 meters, Mount Akagi is not a single peak but a group of mountains, with Kurobi-yama being the highest. Its gentle trails, seasonal beauty, and spiritual atmosphere make it one of the best mountains to hike in Gunma.
January 25, 2026 at Lake Onuma free parking lot. Looking at Mt. Akagi.
What Makes Mount Akagi Unique?
What truly sets Mount Akagi apart is its massive volcanic caldera, formed thousands of years ago.
Inside this caldera sits Lake Onuma (Ōnuma) and Lake Konuma, both adding a calm, almost mystical feel to the landscape.
Key highlights that make Mount Akagi unique:
A volcanic mountain with easy hiking trails
Stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days
A strong connection to Japanese folklore and Shinto beliefs
Akagi Shrine, dramatically floating above Lake Onuma
A rare combination of mountain hiking and lakeside walking
Unlike more crowded peaks near Tokyo, Mount Akagi remains peaceful, making it ideal for hikers seeking quiet nature and reflection.
View of Lake Onuma and Mt. Akagi shrine below. Freezing cold, and the wind was strong at that time.
When Is the Best Time to Hike Mount Akagi?
The best time to hike Mount Akagi is from late May to early November.
Spring (May–June): Fresh greenery and cool temperatures
Summer (July–August): Comfortable hiking weather compared to lower elevations
Autumn (October): One of the best places in Gunma for fall foliage hiking
Winter (November–April): Snow-covered trails; hiking is not recommended without winter mountaineering experience
I did my hike in January. It is cold, and the weather is unstable.
Autumn is especially popular, as Mount Akagi becomes a canvas of red and gold leaves, attracting photographers and nature lovers.
Viewpoint of Mt. Fuji in the direction of the arrow. Unfortunately, it was bad weather, and there was nothing to see.
The Hiking Trail
Mount Akagi offers several well-maintained hiking trails suitable for different skill levels:
Kurobi-yama Trail
Highest peak of Mount Akagi
Moderate difficulty
Offers the best panoramic views
Jizo-dake Trail
Short and beginner-friendly
Ideal for first-time hikers
Great views with minimal effort
Lake Onuma Loop
Easy walking trail
Perfect for a relaxed nature walk
Ideal for families and casual travelers
These trails make Mount Akagi hiking accessible while still feeling adventurous.
Trailhead marker. From Mt. Akagi Shrine, it is approximately a 300m walk to reach this point.
Getting to Mount Akagi from Tokyo
Getting to Mount Akagi from Tokyo is straightforward, especially by train and car.
By Train and Bus
Take the JR Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Maebashi Station
Transfer to a local bus bound for Mount Akagi
Travel time: approximately 2.5–3 hours
By Car
Drive via Kan-Etsu Expressway
Around 2.5 hours from central Tokyo
Highly recommended for flexibility, especially when visiting multiple spots
Driving allows easy access to trailheads, lakes, and viewpoints around the mountain.
Strong wind and snowfall at the time this picture was taken. The weather is unpredictable, just as life, but we have to learn to adapt and smile.
My Sample Day Trip Itinerary (From Tokyo)
04:30 – Depart Tokyo by car
08:00 – Arrive at Lake Onuma, light walk and photography
08:30 – Visit Akagi Shrine
09:00 – Start hiking
12:00 – Lunch at the peak with mountain views
01:00 – Descent
03:00 – Depart Lake Onuma Parking lot
04:00 – Fujimi Onsen
05:00 – Enroute back to Tokyo
Fujimi Onsen Public Bath. Relax your muscles after this hike and enjoy the city view on top of the mountain.
Final Thoughts
During my trip to Mount Akagi, the weather suddenly changed. Clear skies turned into heavy fog, strong winds, and dropping temperatures within minutes. The mountain reminded me how quickly conditions and life can shift without warning.
Hiking Mount Akagi became more than just a walk in nature. It was a quiet lesson in humility and adaptability. Sometimes, no matter how well we plan, we must slow down, adjust, and respect forces beyond our control.
Mount Akagi doesn’t shout for attention, but if you listen closely, it has a lot to teach.
Until the next adventure!
Cheers!
Jeric (Moses)
Where should we go NEXT?
Where should we go NEXT?
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