Onioshidashi Volcanic Park

Onioshidashi Volcanic Park is a striking landscape of jagged black lava rocks on the northern slopes of Mount Asama, on the border of Gunma and Nagano prefectures. The rocks were created by the volcano's catastrophic 1783 eruption, when a massive lava flow engulfed the surrounding landscape. Walking paths wind through the formations, with views of Mount Asama and a Buddhist temple dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. The park is near the resort town of Karuizawa and is accessible by bus from Karuizawa or Manza-Kazawaguchi stations.