Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane

Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane

Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane is an active volcano at 2,160-meter elevation which stands in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. It is made up of Mt. Shirane, Mt. Ainomine, and Mt. Hon Shirane.
Many alpine plants grow around the Mt. Hon Shirane area which turns into a popular spot for hikers during the summer when dicentras come into bloom.
Near Mt. Shirane's peak in a northeastern to southwestern direction are three crater lakes called Mizugama, Yugama, and Kogama that are lined up behind each other. Yugama, the one in the center, is a huge caldera lake with a diameter of approximately 300 meters and a depth of 30 meters.
Because of its acid level at around PH1.0, which is very high and quite rare even on a worldwide standard, plants cannot grow around this lake. The desolate mountain surface and emerald green lake create a vivid contrast, allowing a mystic aura to settle in the area.
Although going near the mountaintop is restricted, a walking trail has been paved from the edge of the lake to the observation deck. Therefore, visitors can see the lake up close (off-limits during the winter season).
There is a place to dine and park your car at the Kusatsu Shirane Rest House located along Route 292 below Yugama.