Mount Tanigawa

Mount Tanigawa

Mount Tanigawa is a peak located at the border between Gunma and Niigata prefectures. Together with the surrounding Mount Mantaro, Mount Sendokura, and Mount Mokuradake, it is collectively referred to as the Tanigawa Range. It consists of two peaks with elevations of 1,963 meters and 1,977 meters respectively. The mountain features steep cliffs and complex terrain, serving as the watershed between Japan’s eastern and western river systems, and experiences highly variable weather due to influences from the Sea of Japan and the Pacific Ocean.

Mount Tanigawa is one of Japan’s Hundred Famous Mountains and a well-known mountaineering and sightseeing destination in Gunma Prefecture. However, due to harsh weather conditions, no vegetation grows above 1,500 meters, allowing alpine plants to be observed at relatively lower altitudes. The Tanigawa Ropeway runs approximately 2.4 kilometers from the Tanigawa-Dogaido entrance to Tenjindaira at an elevation of 1,321 meters and takes about 10 minutes to reach the top. From the ropeway windows, the majestic view of the Tanigawa Mountain Range is spectacular and has captivated countless visitors.

Although magnificent, Mount Tanigawa is notorious for frequent mountaineering accidents due to its harsh weather and steep cliffs, earning it the nickname "Demon Mountain." According to official statistics, 781 climbers have lost their lives on Mount Tanigawa between 1931 and 2005. To prevent further tragedies, Gunma Prefecture has established specific mountain climbing regulations, and climbers are required to submit climbing plans at each trailhead to ensure safety.

Mount Tanigawa

Must-visit reason: The steepest mountain in Gunma Prefecture

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Japan[Japan]

Prefecture/state where the attraction is located: Gunma Prefecture [Gunma Prefecture]