Mount Akagi, ranked among Japan’s 100 famous mountains, is a dormant volcanic complex rising above the Kanto plain, its multiple peaks encircling Lake Onuma, a crater lake formed within the volcano’s caldera. Hiking trails of varying difficulty wind across the peaks and around the lake, and each October the mountainside erupts in vivid crimson and gold as maple and other deciduous trees change colour, drawing large numbers of visitors to combine foliage viewing with a visit to the picturesque lakeside Akagi Shrine.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Maebashi area, Gunma |
| Hours | Trails always open; road access seasonal (winter closures possible) |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | 2–4 hours |
| Best time | Mid-October (peak autumn foliage) |
What to See
- Lake Onuma, a crater lake within Akagi’s caldera.
- Hiking trails across the peaks and around the lake.
- Vivid crimson and gold autumn foliage each October.
- The picturesque Akagi Shrine on the lakeshore.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Maebashi City sightseeing.
- Pair with Lake Haruna for a two-lake day.
- Read our Gunma overview .
Getting There
- By bus: seasonal bus from Maebashi Station toward Lake Onuma (limited service, check schedule).
- By car: roughly 2 hours from central Tokyo; winter tyres required in colder months.
Tips
Check the mountain road’s seasonal opening status before travelling, as access can be limited or closed in winter. Peak autumn foliage weekends bring heavy traffic on the mountain road; a weekday visit or early departure helps avoid the worst delays.
