Tour of Gunma’s Power Spots! A Travel Guide to Lake Haruna, Mount Haruna, and Haruna Shrine

Among the many power spots in Gunma Prefecture, Lake Haruna, Mount Haruna, and Haruna Shrine stand out as must-visit destinations. Gunma is well known for its famous hot spring resorts such as Kusatsu Onsen and Manza Onsen, but beyond its hot springs, the prefecture is also blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. From breathtaking locations like Fukiware Falls to the vast wilderness of Oze National Park, Gunma offers countless opportunities for nature-filled sightseeing. In this guide, we will introduce three of Gunma’s most scenic and tranquil destinations—Lake Haruna, Mount Haruna, and Haruna Shrine—each offering a unique spiritual and serene experience.

Is It Possible to Visit All Three Tourist Spots in One Day?

Since Lake Haruna, Mount Haruna, and Haruna Shrine are all located relatively close to one another, it is entirely possible to visit all three in a single day. If you travel by car, you can reach Lake Haruna from Haruna Shrine in about 20 minutes. However, just because they are close does not mean they are small-scale attractions.

Mount Haruna sits beside Lake Haruna, and the route leading to the lake allows travelers to immerse themselves in nature. Since these locations are not typically crowded with tourists, there are times when you may feel like you have the vast natural surroundings all to yourself.

Regardless of the order in which you explore, the experience will surely be enjoyable. However, we highly recommend starting at Haruna Shrine and then heading to Lake Haruna. This way, you can learn about the rich history of the Haruna area at the shrine before witnessing the breathtaking natural beauty of Lake Haruna and Mount Haruna, making it an ideal course for sightseeing.

Lake Haruna is Beautiful in Every Season

Located in the western part of Gunma Prefecture, Lake Haruna (Harunako) was formed by volcanic activity from Mount Haruna. It is Japan’s second-highest lake in terms of elevation and has been a popular tourist destination since the Taisho era. During winter, depending on the temperature, the lake freezes over entirely, attracting many photographers eager to capture the breathtaking scenery. What makes Lake Haruna special is that it offers stunning landscapes throughout all seasons—from spring to winter, each period brings unique and picturesque scenery, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake year-round.

Historically, Lake Haruna was once called Ikaho Marsh (Ikaho-no-numa), and it has been mentioned in various legends and classical Japanese literature such as the Manyoshu. With its crystal-clear waters and deep historical significance, it is an excellent travel destination for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Mount Haruna’s Legends Make It a Fascinating Destination

Designated as an active volcano in 1991, Mount Haruna (Harunasan) is a famous peak located in the western part of Gunma Prefecture. One of the reasons why Gunma is one of Japan’s top hot spring destinations is because of volcanic activity from Mount Haruna. Like Lake Haruna, Mount Haruna is also shrouded in myths and legends.

One famous folklore tells of Daidarabotchi, a giant from Japanese mythology, who competed to build Mount Fuji, Mount Asama, and Mount Haruna. Just as Mount Fuji was about to be completed first, the race ended, leaving the other mountains unfinished. This and many other folktales indicate that Mount Haruna has long been a site of strong mountain worship and spiritual beliefs.

Haruna Shrine’s Architectural Beauty and Natural Surroundings

Completed in 927 AD (Engi 5), Haruna Shrine (Haruna Jinja) is considered one of the most prestigious shrines in Japan, as recorded in the Shinto shrine registry book "Jinmyocho", which lists major shrines nationwide. Surrounded by lush nature, the shrine offers a serene environment filled with ancient trees and massive rock formations, making it one of Gunma Prefecture’s top sightseeing destinations.

Many visitors either begin or end their journey at Haruna Shrine, regardless of whether they are heading toward Lake Haruna or Mount Haruna. The reason for this is its status as a powerful spiritual site. Haruna Shrine is home to unique geological formations, including cliffs with intricate shapes, unusually formed boulders that look almost artificial, and two towering sacred cedar trees. These features make it an ideal shrine for making wishes and seeking spiritual energy.

Recommended Local Cuisine & Souvenirs in the Haruna Area

The area surrounding Lake Haruna, Mount Haruna, and Haruna Shrine is dotted with numerous souvenir shops. One of the most famous local dishes in this region is Mizusawa Udon, a renowned type of udon noodle that is counted among Japan’s top three udon varieties. Mizusawa Udon is thin, smooth, and has a firm, chewy texture, making it a favorite among people of all ages. Be sure to give it a try!

Another highly recommended souvenir is the original shochu (Japanese distilled liquor) from Romance-tei, a well-known local shop. Gunma is blessed with high-quality water and rice, which has led to the development of many historic sake breweries. This makes locally brewed sake and shochu perfect gifts for liquor enthusiasts. In recent years, Gunma has been gaining attention as a travel destination, and further development of its tourist facilities is expected in the near future.

Best Seasons for Visiting Haruna – Fall and Winter Stand Out

Although Haruna is beautiful year-round, winter is highly recommended for sightseeing. As mentioned earlier, during winter, Lake Haruna can freeze completely, creating a rare and breathtaking view that can only be seen at this high-altitude lake. If you are looking for a unique winter experience, a visit to Haruna during this season is a must.

Additionally, autumn foliage is another highlight of the region. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Haruna’s fiery red leaves from the Haruna Ropeway or by taking a swan boat ride on Lake Haruna. These features make it a popular spot for couples and one of the top romantic destinations in the area.

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Tour of Gunma’s Power Spots! A Travel Guide to Lake Haruna, Mount Haruna, and Haruna Shrine