Lake Haruna
Lake Haruna, A Crater Lake On Mount Haruna In Gunma, Ringed By A Lakeside Path And A Lakeside Shrine, With A Ropeway Up Mount Haruna Fuji, Swan Boats And A Ski Ground. A Cool Day Trip From Takasaki In Summer. · Takasaki, Gunma
Lake Haruna is a crater lake in the Haruna volcano, on Mount Haruna in Gunma, about 1,100 m above sea level - confirm - an hour or so by bus from Takasaki. Cool air, grass slopes and a ring of rocky peaks make it a favourite escape from Kanto summer heat. A lakeside path of about 4 km - confirm - circles most of the water, and Haruna Shrine stands under steep rock cliffs on the mountain side, a mountain shrine with a dark, quiet approach, worth the walk. A ropeway climbs Mount Haruna-Fuji for a wide view - confirm its season and hours. Swan boats and a small row of cafes and gift shops line the shore, and in winter the lake can freeze for wakasagi smelt ice fishing and nearby ski runs - confirm. It suits families and drivers, and anyone who likes quiet water. Without a car it is a slow day by bus; it is worth it for the shrine and the air, less so on a hazy, crowded holiday or if you dislike cold wind.
Haruna-machi, Takasaki, Gunma, on the crater lake of Mount Haruna, reached by bus from Takasaki or Ikaho Onsen, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
The lakeside path and shore are open all day and free. The shrine grounds are open through the day, with shop and office hours shorter in winter; the Haruna-Fuji ropeway runs in daytime on set seasons and stops in strong wind or snow - confirm the timetable and fare. Boats and cafes keep daytime hours, and many close early outside summer and autumn. Buses run from Takasaki Station and from Ikaho Onsen, often only a few times a day, with the last bus down in the late afternoon - confirm the times. Roads may be icy or closed in deep winter. Bring cash for small shops and the shrine.