Yugen no Mori Music Festival

Event Overview

The Yugen no Mori Music Festival is a luxurious musical event held at the historic temple lodging (Shukubo) located at Haruna Shrine in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture. Within the majestic atmosphere of Haruna Shrine, which boasts an estimated 1,400 years of history, you can enjoy professional classical and jazz performances. More than just a concert, the event often offers special plans that include meals made with local ingredients, providing a profound experience of Japanese tradition and art through all five senses.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest draw is the extraordinary experience of enjoying music within a setting of ownered historical architecture, such as the temple lodging or the Kagura-den shrine hall. Depending on the specific date, the program may feature high-quality classical concerts by members of the Gunma Symphony Orchestra or energetic jazz live sessions. Additionally, you can fully enjoy the fusion of music, local culture, and relaxation through special offerings like gourmet meals or hot spring bath vouchers.

Schedule

The program content varies depending on the specific date of the event. In past instances, certain days were dedicated to classical music while others featured jazz. Please be sure to check the latest information for specific dates and schedules. Note that in previous years, a prior reservation system was implemented for specific dates.

Venue & Access

The venue is the temple lodging (such as Hannya-bo) or the Kagura-den located in the Shakacho area of Haruna Shrine. Haruna Shrine is situated in a lush, mountainous area, offering a very peaceful and tranquil environment.

From the West Exit of JR Takasaki Station, take the Gunma Bus (via Hongo, bound for Haruna Lake) and get off at "Haruna Jinja-mae." It is approximately a 15-minute walk from there. As bus services are often on a fixed schedule, we recommend checking the timetable in advance.

You can enjoy a scenic drive through the foothills of Mount Haruna, but please be cautious of road conditions (such as ice or snow) depending on the season.

Participation Tips

This event often has a limited capacity and is held for a small number of guests. In past cases, capacity was limited to approximately 50 people per session, and tickets were primarily available through a prior reservation system (via telephone). By purchasing a meal-inclusive ticket, you can enjoy menus featuring local specialties. Since the content changes significantly depending on the musical genre (Classical or Jazz), please check the program in advance.

What to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

As the venue is a temple lodging or shrine hall, temperatures can drop at night or during certain seasons. If the performance is held in an outdoor or semi-outdoor space, we recommend bringing a thick jacket or shawl for warmth.

To purchase tickets or make a reservation, you must confirm details via the designated contact point (such as the Takasaki City Haruna Branch Industrial Tourism Division) by phone. Please follow the instructions on the official website or the contact point for payment and reservation details.

As the event takes place within historical buildings or shrine grounds, please wear modest, respectful clothing. Additionally, as the terrain may be uneven or slippery, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.