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Mount Kusatsu-Shirane: An Active Volcano

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Explore an active volcano near Kusatsu Onsen, offering hiking trails and stunning views of the emerald green Yugama crater lake.

Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, an active stratovolcano in Gunma Prefecture, offers stunning views and unique volcanic landscapes. Though volcanic activity has, at times, restricted access to certain areas, the mountain remains a popular destination for hiking and enjoying the beauty of its emerald green crater lake, Yugama.

A brief summary to Mount Kusatsu-Shirane

  • Kusatsu, Kusatsu, Kusatsu, Agatsuma District, Gunma, JP
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mount Kusatsu-Shirane.

  • Check for updated information on trail closures and volcanic activity before visiting.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
  • Bring layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change quickly.

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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal, take a JR bus towards the Shirane Resthouse. The bus ride is approximately 30 minutes. Check the bus schedule beforehand as services may be limited or interrupted due to volcanic activity. A one-way fare costs around ¥1130. Some buses are covered by the Japan Rail Pass, JR East Nagano Niigata Area Pass, and JR East Tohoku Area Pass.

Discover more about Mount Kusatsu-Shirane

Mount Kusatsu-Shirane (草津白根山, Kusatsu Shirane-san) is a 2,165-meter active stratovolcano located near Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most renowned hot spring resorts. To distinguish it from Mount Nikkō-Shirane, it's often called Kusatsu-Shirane. The mountain's summit features overlapping pyroclastic cones and crater lakes, with Yugama being the most iconic.Yugama Crater Lake's vivid emerald green color is due to the presence of iron ions and dissolved sulfur. The lake's water is highly acidic, boasting a pH of approximately 1.0. While past volcanic activity has led to closures, hiking trails around the mountain offer opportunities to witness alpine plants and unique volcanic formations.Kusatsu-Shirane has a history of eruptions, with the most recent confirmed event in 2018. Despite the volcanic activity, the area continues to attract visitors seeking natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

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