Mount Myogi and Myogi Shrine

Mt. Myogi is located on the westernmost side of the three Jomo Mountains, closer to Nagano Prefecture. It is said that after volcanic activity about 6 to 4 million years ago, weathering and erosion created the sharp, steep, and unique shape of the mountain. It is one of the "Japan’s Three Best Views”. There are several peaks, the highest of which is Soma Peak (1104m). In the Jomo karuta (Japanese playing cards), the phrase "Mt. Myogi reflected in autumn leaves" is used to describe the unique beauty of the red autumn leaves reflected on the steep mountain surface, and is considered the pride of Gunma, a mountainous prefecture.

Myogi Shrine is located halfway up Mt. Hakuun, the main peak of Mt. Myogi. It was constructed in the 6th Century and its deities include Yamato Takeru, Toyouke no Okami, and others. Since the Middle Ages, the shrine has been worshipped by samurai and common people, and was granted a red seal estate of 30 koku by the Edo shogunate. The vast shrine area is dotted with a main shrine, a hall of worship, a Karamon (Chinese-style gate), Somon (a main gate), and other structures. The main shrine, which is connected to the worship hall by a hall of offerings (Stone Hall), and the Karamon and Somon gates in front of it are important cultural properties. The splendidly carved and decorated head shrine is nicknamed "Jomo no Nikko" (Sunlight of the Jomo region). The 200-year-old weeping cherry tree is a sight to behold. It is also popular as a power spot for good luck and success in life.