5th Jan 2006: Mount Asama located on the border between Nagano and Gunma

This is a photo of Mount Asama that I took during my visit to Karuizawa at the very beginning of the New Year.

Mount Asama, located on the border between Nagano and Gunma Prefectures, is an active volcano rising to 2,568 meters and is recognized as one of Japan’s “100 Famous Mountains.” It is a stratovolcano distinguished by its elegant, conical shape, and has long been revered as a sacred site as well as a setting for literary works.

Asama remains highly active, and its most catastrophic eruption occurred in 1783 during the Tenmei era, causing one of the worst disasters in Japanese history. Pyroclastic flows and mudslides claimed numerous lives, and the event is considered a major factor in the Tenmei famine. Today, the volcano is under constant surveillance by the Japan Meteorological Agency, and access to areas near the crater is strictly restricted.

Several hiking trails lead to scenic viewpoints, with the route from Mount Kurofu offering particularly stunning views of Asama. Surrounding the volcano are dramatic lava fields, such as Onioshidashi Park, where visitors can experience the raw power of volcanic activity up close. Nearby destinations like Karuizawa and Komoro provide additional attractions and seasonal landscapes.

Mount Asama embodies both the beauty of nature and the formidable force of volcanism, making it one of Japan’s most iconic mountains. It holds historical, geological, and touristic significance, and anyone planning a visit should take appropriate safety precautions.

Taken with Nikon New FM2 / AF-S 28-70mm F2.8D / Kodak Gold 100

Photographed from Asama Rokurigahara Rest Area