Agatsuma Gorge

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Experience the majestic scenery of this gorge, sometimes called the "Yamakei of Kanto"! Its diverse topography offers breathtaking views throughout the year, from vibrant greenery to stunning autumn colors.

Tourist destination images of Agatsuma Gorge(1)

Tourist destination images of Agatsuma Gorge(2)

Tourist destination images of Agatsuma Gorge(3)

Overview

Agatsuma Gorge, known as the "Yamakei of Kanto," is a gorge carved by the Agatsuma River in Higashiagatsuma Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture. Its magnificent scenery has captivated many literati and artists throughout history. The varied landscape provides beautiful views year-round, from the fresh green of spring to the vibrant autumn foliage. In spring, the profuse blooming of *mitsuba tsutsuji* (three-leaf azalea) is a sight to behold, while the autumn colors of maple and *kunugi* (Japanese evergreen oak) trees paint the gorge in stunning hues. Many highlights grace Agatsuma Gorge, including Benten Island, Wakaba-dai (Green Leaf Terrace), Byobu-iwa (Folding Screen Rock), Hotei-iwa (Hotei Rock), Hachio-kurayami (Eight-Cho Dark), Ryuto-iwa (Dragon Head Rock), Ryubi-iwa (Dragon Tail Rock), Momiji-dai (Maple Terrace), and Shin-Horai (New Horai). The section near Shika Tobi Bridge, known as "Hachio-kurayami" (Eight-Cho Dark), is particularly striking, with its narrow river and imposing cliff walls creating a sense of awe. From Shin-Horai, located just downstream of the Yatsuhada Dam, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the reservoir and Agatsuma Gorge. Well-maintained walking paths make exploring the gorge easy and enjoyable. A stroll along these paths brings you up close to the majestic beauty of the gorge, allowing you to feel the pulse of nature. Agatsuma Gorge is a popular destination for experiencing nature and appreciating magnificent scenery. Recently, the completion of the Yatsuhada Dam has created a new reservoir, further transforming the landscape of Agatsuma Gorge. The contrast between the reservoir and the gorge adds a new dimension to its scenic beauty.

Historic Sites
Scenic Views
Flower Viewing

Basic Information

Address: 873 Matsuya, Higashiagatsuma-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Gunma

Access: Take a local bus from Iwajima Station on the JR Agatsuma Line, then a 10-minute walk to Shika Tobi Bridge. From the Kan-etsu Expressway's Shibukawa-Ikaho Interchange or Numata Interchange, it's a 40-minute drive to Higashiagatsuma Town. From Ueda City in Nagano Prefecture, it takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. Nearby parking options include the Agatsuma Gorge Michi-no-Eki (95 regular cars, 11 large vehicles), the Keikoku Parking near the Agatsuma Gorge Bridge (14 regular cars, 2 large vehicles), and the Juniizawa Parking near Saru Bridge (27 regular cars, large vehicles for drop-off and pick-up only). Show route

Op.Hours: 24 hours a day

Cld.Days: No days off

Fee: Free

INFO: Parking is available at multiple locations, including the Agatsuma Gorge Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station), Keikoku Parking, and Juni-zawa Parking. The old National Route 145 on the left bank is closed to general vehicles from the Azuma Gorge Bridge upstream. General tourists can walk along the adjacent promenade. The hiking course on the right bank is quite steep, like a mountain trail. If you are concerned about safety with children or the elderly, it is recommended to use the aforementioned promenade along the old national highway.