Mt. Haruna

Cycling up Mt. Haruna in Gunma Prefecture is a thrilling ride that combines challenging climbs with stunning scenery. The route ascends through winding mountain roads surrounded by dense forests, offering moments of tranquility and natural beauty along the way.
At the summit, you’ll find the picturesque Lake Haruna, a crater lake that’s perfect for a restful break. The area also features local eateries and the historic Haruna Shrine, adding cultural highlights to your ride. With its mix of demanding ascents and rewarding views, Mt. Haruna is a must-ride destination for cyclists looking to tackle one of Gunma’s iconic mountains.
Approachs to Mt. Haruna
Thanks for the clarification! Here’s the corrected and detailed breakdown of the five approaches to Mt. Haruna, organized by the routes you mentioned:
1. Route 33 (Ikaho Onsen Route)
- Starting Point: Ikaho Onsen Town
- Distance: ~11.5 km (7.1 miles)
- Elevation Gain: ~900 meters
- Description: This route is iconic among cyclists and anime fans (Initial D enthusiasts will recognize it). Featuring a series of sharp switchbacks and steady gradients, it’s both a challenging climb and a thrilling descent. The scenic views of the valley and the hot spring town below make it a memorable ride.
2. Route 28 (Matsunozawa Pass Route)
- Starting Point: Shintō Village
- Distance: ~15.5 km (9.6 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 942 meters (3,090 feet)
- Average Gradient: 6.1%
- Description: This route climbs through forested terrain with well-paved roads, leading to Matsunozawa Pass. It offers a steady gradient and access to Lake Haruna at the summit, making it a popular choice for cyclists seeking a scenic yet manageable climb.
3. Route 126 (Southern Approach)
- Starting Point: Near Minowa Castle Ruins ( Fureai Park)
- Distance: ~10.9 km
- Elevation Gain: 883 meters
- Average Gradient: 8.2%
- Description: Known for its steeper sections, this route is a favorite among experienced cyclists looking for a challenge. The climb is shorter but intense, with rewarding views of the mountain and lake at the top.
4. Route 33 (Southwest Approach)
- Starting Point: Kurabuchi Post Office (National Route 406)
- Distance: ~13 km
- Elevation Gain: ~900 meters
- Description: This approach combines a gradual start with steeper switchbacks as you ascend. It offers a mix of rolling terrain and sharp climbs, with views of the surrounding countryside and Lake Haruna at the summit. This is the route that is used by the yearly Haruna Hillclimb that starts at the Haruna Gymnastics center
5. Route 28 (Northwest Approach)
- Starting Point: Gobara Station
- Distance: 16 km
- Elevation Gain: 950 meters
- Description: The northwest approach is the longest route, featuring a mix of moderate and steep gradients. The initial sections are relatively gentle, but the climb intensifies as you near the top. This route offers a rewarding challenge and a variety of landscapes along the way. This is the only route that heads to the Northwest and can connect to routes to Kusatsu or Nakanojo
Each of these routes provides a distinct experience, whether you’re looking for a steep and intense climb or a longer, more gradual ascent. The reward at the summit—breathtaking views of Lake Haruna and the surrounding mountains—makes every approach worth the effort.
Getting there and away
Getting to most of the accesses for Mt. Haruna is easy with the Joetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansens which both stop at Takasaki. For an alternative about 10 of the Holuriku Shinkansen a day stop at Annaka-Haruna Station about 15km to the West of Takasaki to give a start that is more out of the city.