Kiryu River Headwaters Forest

Mount Nemoto, one of Gunma’s 100 Famous Mountains, rises 1,199 meters above sea level. The clear, pristine waters of the Kiryu River flow from the mountain, nurturing magnificent natural scenery. The forest along the river is known as the Kiryu River Headwaters Forest. Its remarkable landscape has earned it a place on both Japan’s 100 Best Forests for Forest Bathing and 100 Best Water Source Forests lists. The changing scenery, from fresh summer greenery to colorful autumn foliage, offers a soothing retreat in every season.

Trekking is a great way to explore the area. If you are confident in your stamina, consider extending your walk from Lake Umeda to Ishigamo Tenmangu Shrine, located about 7 km upstream. The walk along Prefectural Route 337 takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Along the way, you will pass sights such as the Ishigamo dosojin roadside deity as you venture deeper into the mountains. Ishigamo Tenmangu Shrine stands where the road becomes so narrow that cars cannot pass each other.

The shrine once enshrined the guardian deity of Fujiu Kii-no-Kami, who ruled this area. According to a local folk tale, heavy rain caused the Kiryu River to flood and wash away the shrine building. The villagers searched for it, eventually finding it at the site where the shrine now stands and enshrining it there. Pass through the torii gate and enter the shrine grounds. At the top of a steep stone staircase, the timeworn shrine building and stone sanctuary create a deeply mystical atmosphere. The many offerings show that the shrine remains an important place for local residents today.

Take in the natural scenery as it changes with the seasons, and visit this village shrine that has long existed in harmony with nature.