Mt. Azumaya
Mount Azumaya (Azuyma-yama), also known as Mount Agatsuma, reaches an elevation of 2,354 meters. It is located on the border between Gunma and Nagano Prefectures, making it one of the tallest peaks in the region, following Mount Asama and Mount Kurofu. Known as Mount Azumaya in Nagano and Mount Agatsuma in Gunma, the mountain's name derives from its summit resembling the roof of an "azumaya" (a type of gazebo), and it also bears legends related to the deity Yamato Takeru, who is said to have reminisced about his wife, Princess Tachibana, at this location.
Two shrines are situated at the summit: one for Gunma (Joushu-shi) and another for Nagano (Shinshu-shi), with the latter dedicated to Yamato Takeru, commemorating his historical significance to the area.
Mount Azumaya is part of the Azuma Volcanic Range and is the main peak formed from andesitic lava flows. It links circularly to other peaks and features a caldera about 3.5km in diameter, within which notable waterfalls like Fudo Falls and Gongen Falls are found on the caldera's walls. The area also contains sulfur deposits, indicating its volcanic origins and historical use for sulfur mining.
The typical route to the summit starts at Karui Pass, from where a 3km hike leads to a junction, passing through Tekiiwa and a 2040m peak, with alternative routes coming up from Sugadaira. The summit offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Northern Alps and surrounding landscapes. The mountain also serves as a ski area in the winter, providing opportunities for ski mountaineering.
*Before heading out on a hike, make sure to stay updated with the latest information on trails and other important details.