Akagi Nature Park

Something to enjoy in all seasons

Kim   - 2 min read

Located at the western foot of Gunma's Mt. Akagi at an altitude of 600 to 700 meters, the Akagi Nature Park covers an area of​​ 120 hectares, with half of that space open to the public. The park is renowned for its beauty throughout all four seasons, with something to enjoy no matter when you visit.

During spring the park is home to a wide variety of flowers, with one of the highlights being the colorful rhododendrons. They're usually at their best from late April to late May, and aside from being a visual treat they also attract a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the park's ecological significance.

Another equally colorful time of year is during autumn, when the park is packed with vivid changing leaves. The best time to catch the fall foliage is typically from late October to mid-November, and various flowers are also in bloom around this period.

Photo: Credit Saison Co., Ltd.

Along with the impressive array of plant life on display, there are numerous creatures to keep an eye out for. A section on the park's website provides a comprehensive rundown, but the list includes the likes of grey herons, kingfishers, squirrels, and tree frogs to name just a handful.

If you do plan a visit here, please note that the operating days differ depending on the season. From April through November the park opens every day except Tuesdays, but during the winter season from December through March the park is only open on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays.

Getting there

The Akagi Nature Park is located around 10 minutes driving time from Akagi IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway. Free on-site parking is available for up to 400 vehicles.

If you plan to visit via public transport, taxis and buses are available from JR Shibukawa Station.

Kim

Kim @kim.b