【Gunma Prefecture】The breathtaking autumn foliage view from the Shibu Pass

"Shibu Pass" straddles Nakanojo Town in Gunma Prefecture and Yamanouchi Town in Nagano Prefecture.

Located along National Route 292 on the Gunma side, at an altitude of 2,172 meters, stands the "Japan's National Highway Highest Point Monument."

From there, you can enjoy a stunning view of the autumn foliage of the Yoshigadaira Wetlands, which are also registered under the Ramsar Convention.

Especially at dawn, if the weather conditions are right, you can witness a sea of clouds, the morning sun breaking through, and a fiery red sunrise all at once, making it a hidden gem among scenic spots!

Near the monument, there is a small parking lot available. However, during the peak season, many people stay overnight in their cars the day before, so it is usually full by midnight.

National Route 292 surprisingly has many roadside shoulders, so there are quite a few places to park. *However, you may need to walk a bit.

On days when the sea of clouds is likely to occur, by 4 a.m. before dawn, all the best spots were already taken... It's a fierce competition.

Even so, the magnificent autumn foliage at sunrise is highly recommended.

＜Japan's National Highway Highest Point Monument＞
Location: Between Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, and Nakanojo Town, Gunma Prefecture, along National Route 292 "Shiga Kusatsu Highland Route."
Admission and parking: Free
Closed for winter: Early November to late April
Access: About 2.5 hours by car from Takasaki City, about 20 minutes by car from Manza Onsen.

Post by タビノモリ | Oct 29, 2025