Guida
Kenoun Pass is a mountain pass situated at an altitude of 1,823m, marking the boundary between Takayama Village in Nagano Prefecture and Tsumagoi Village in Gunma Prefecture. As its name suggests (meaning 'no trees'), the landscape is characterized by a desolate, barren beauty with very little vegetation. This unique scenery is deeply connected to the history of sulfur mining once practiced in the area. Today, visitors can see the remains of the ropeway (a transport system similar to a cable car) used to transport materials from the former Ogushi Mine, creating a striking fusion of natural beauty and industrial ruins.
This region has a rich history of sulfur mining dating back from the Meiji to the Taisho eras. The local vegetation was significantly altered due to the historical practice of clearing trees for smelting and the impact of sulfur dioxide gas produced during the process. The area also holds a somber history, including a major landslide disaster in 1937. In recent years, the pass has gained modern fame as a popular filming location for internet memes, the movie 'Fly Me to the Saitama,' and music videos for artists such as LiSA and back number.
The greatest highlight is the sight of the iron towers left behind by the old ropeway system. These towers standing against the desolate, wide-open landscape create an incredibly cinematic and impressive view. The signpost marking the border between Gunma and Nagano is also a popular spot for photos due to its unique atmosphere. For active travelers, well-maintained hiking trails lead to peaks such as Hafugadake, Kenounzan, and Gohan-dake. On clear days, the pass offers a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges.
The best time to visit is from June to September, when the changing colors of the flora and flowers are most visible. While summer is suitable for hiking, please be aware that weather conditions can change rapidly due to the high altitude. Fog is common, so it is highly recommended to plan your visit for a clear, sunny day to ensure maximum visibility. Note that during the winter season (mid-November to mid-May), the Manza Road is closed, making the pass inaccessible by vehicle.
You can enjoy nature walks, hiking, and mountain climbing. Trekking through the landscape while observing the industrial remains is a one-of-a-kind experience. For photography enthusiasts, the dramatic scenery—reminiscent of movie sets—provides a perfect backdrop for professional-grade shots. However, as the area can be affected by volcanic activity or sudden weather shifts, it is vital to check local conditions before heading out.
The area is surrounded by volcanic regions, including the Kusatsu-Shirane volcanic zone. It is located near the scenic areas of Takayama Village and Tsumagoi Village, making it an excellent destination for a combined driving trip or mountain excursion. Access is possible from the Nagano side via Suzaka and from the Gunma side via the Kusatsu area.
Due to the high altitude, temperatures can be much lower than the surrounding lowlands even in summer. We strongly recommend bringing warm clothing and waterproof gear to handle sudden weather changes. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential for the unpaved paths and hiking trails. Additionally, please be cautious near closed mine shafts, as sulfur gas may be present; do not enter any restricted areas. Since there are no shops nearby, please ensure you have sufficient cash and supplies before arriving. English signage and staff support are limited, so we recommend researching your route in advance.