Onioshidashi Park
Explore a dramatic volcanic landscape shaped by Mt. Asama's eruption, featuring jagged lava rocks and a serene temple.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Azaleas in bloom
Onioshidashi Park
Best Time
Azaleas in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a dramatic volcanic landscape shaped by Mt. Asama's eruption, featuring jagged lava rocks and a serene temple.
"A unique volcanic landscape with a peaceful temple, offering stunning views year-round."
🚶♀️ Leisurely Pace
Allow 90-120 minutes for a relaxed exploration of all routes. A brisk walk can cover major sights in about an hour.
🚗 Toll-Free Navigation
Set GPS to 'no tolls' for a more comfortable and potentially cheaper drive to the park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jagged Lava Formations
Explore an otherworldly landscape of sharp, black volcanic rocks, a testament to Mt. Asama's powerful eruption.
Asamayama Kannondo Temple
Center of the park
A serene temple offering a place for reflection amidst the stark volcanic scenery.
Seasonal Azaleas
In spring, vibrant azaleas bloom, adding a splash of color to the dark volcanic terrain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating to the Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Leisurely Pace
Allow 90-120 minutes for a relaxed exploration of all routes. A brisk walk can cover major sights in about an hour.
🚗 Toll-Free Navigation
Set GPS to 'no tolls' for a more comfortable and potentially cheaper drive to the park.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Bring your furry friends! Dogs are welcome with no extra fee and a dog run is available.
⚠️ Check Trail Status
Be aware that trails can close due to wildlife sightings; check ahead to avoid disappointment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Leisurely Pace
Allow 90-120 minutes for a relaxed exploration of all routes. A brisk walk can cover major sights in about an hour.
🚗 Toll-Free Navigation
Set GPS to 'no tolls' for a more comfortable and potentially cheaper drive to the park.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Bring your furry friends! Dogs are welcome with no extra fee and a dog run is available.
⚠️ Check Trail Status
Be aware that trails can close due to wildlife sightings; check ahead to avoid disappointment.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The stark volcanic rocks against seasonal blooms offer unique photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Onioshidashi Park for its unique volcanic landscape and the serene temple, especially when complemented by seasonal blooms. While some find the infrastructure a bit dated and concrete paths less natural, the convenience of free parking and the park's dog-friendly policy are significant draws. Trail closures due to wildlife are a potential concern to be aware of.
"If you go extremely leisurely I think you can finish all routes in 90-120min.
I circled the outer rim one time and it took about 45 min.
Plenty of parking outside which is free.
The scenery was quite good, with volcanic rock formations and autumn colours all around 😊
I came 31st Oct 2024 which was apparently a little past peak, though, 2024 was a later year than normal for autumn colours."
Ang Ze Yu
"Very nice place with nice view and a temple. 2 hours would be more than enough for a full walk. If you are fast, 1 hour can cover most of the major routes."
dreamknight70
"A nice scenery of volcanic rocks. It's a pity the place is covered with concrete and not much of the trail is kept natural. While I understand this makes it more accessible, it kind of killed the atmosphere for me. The buildings and facilities are also outdated, which gives it the feeling of an old theme park rather than a beautiful natural park.
On top of that, half of the trails were closed because someone saw a bear a month ago. It would have been useful to know this when we entered.
There's free parking, but to get here from Old Karuizawa or Kita-Karuizawa, you have to go through a paid "highway." I recommend setting your navigation for "no tolls," as we took a public road on the way back and it was a more comfortable drive.
On the positive side, you can enter with a dog 🐕, and there's no additional fee for them. There's also a dog run next to the parking lot that costs about 1,000 yen (or 500 yen if you visit the park as well)."
- Ymg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Onioshidashi Park is accessible by car, with plenty of free parking available. If driving from Karuizawa, consider setting your navigation to avoid tolls for a more pleasant journey. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules is recommended.
Yes, there is ample free parking available at the park entrance, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Some routes to the park may involve tolls. Travelers recommend setting your navigation system to 'no tolls' to find alternative, more scenic, and potentially cost-effective routes.
Absolutely! Onioshidashi Park is very dog-friendly. There's no extra fee for dogs, and a dedicated dog run is available nearby.
Driving is the most convenient option. While some routes have tolls, opting for a 'no tolls' setting on your GPS can lead you through local roads, offering a different perspective of the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official park website or local tourism information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Information regarding entrance fees is not consistently mentioned in reviews, but parking is generally free. It's advisable to confirm any admission costs prior to your visit.
Advance ticket purchase information is not readily available. Visitors typically pay upon arrival or the park may have free entry with potential fees for specific facilities.
Details on discounts are not widely publicized. However, the free parking and dog-friendly policy are significant benefits for visitors.
Trail closures can occur due to wildlife. It's recommended to inquire at the park entrance or check local advisories beforehand to be aware of any access limitations.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic contrast between the black volcanic rocks and the vibrant seasonal flowers (like azaleas in spring or autumn foliage) makes for stunning photos. The Asamayama Kannondo Temple also offers a picturesque element.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the lava formations. The midday sun can be harsh, but still offers good visibility.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with park authorities or local aviation guidelines before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive volcanic landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing Mt. Asama in the background.
The park's unique geological formations, the serene temple, and the seasonal flora provide diverse photographic opportunities, from grand landscapes to intricate details.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient for a thorough exploration, including walking the main routes and visiting the temple. Some may take longer if they are very leisurely.
The paths are generally well-maintained and relatively easy to use, with some paved sections. There are small hills, but rest stops are available.
Facilities include rest stops along the paths and a dog run. Some reviews mention that the buildings and facilities might feel a bit outdated.
While some paths are paved and maintained, the volcanic terrain can be uneven. It's advisable to check with the park directly regarding accessibility for specific mobility needs.
The park offers a unique atmosphere of natural power and tranquility, with a stark volcanic landscape complemented by a temple and seasonal beauty. Some find the concrete paths detract from a purely natural feel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park might be limited or basic. The dog-friendly policy is a huge plus for families traveling with pets, and the dog run offers a great place for them to burn off energy.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
As a day trip, the park can be comfortably explored within a few hours, leaving ample time for other nearby attractions like Shiraito Falls or the charming streets of Karuizawa.
The unique volcanic landscape provides a striking contrast to the more typical natural scenery found elsewhere in Japan, making it a memorable addition to any itinerary. 🐶 Pet Owners
Ensure your dog is on a leash when not in the dog run and be mindful of other visitors. The park's trails are generally easy to walk, making it suitable for dogs of various energy levels. Remember to bring water for both yourself and your pet, especially during warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Origins of Onioshidashi Park
The park serves as a stark reminder of nature's force, yet it also embodies a sense of peace. At its heart lies the Asamayama Kannondo Temple, built to commemorate the victims of the eruption and offer a place for quiet contemplation. This juxtaposition of destructive power and serene spirituality is a key element of the park's appeal.
Despite its volcanic origins, the park is surprisingly home to diverse flora. During spring, azaleas burst into bloom, adding vibrant colors to the dark rocks, and autumn brings a display of colorful foliage. This seasonal beauty transforms the landscape, offering a different visual experience throughout the year.
Navigating and Experiencing the Park
While the park's infrastructure is designed for ease of access, some visitors note that the presence of concrete paths and facilities can detract from a purely natural atmosphere, giving it a feel akin to an older theme park rather than a pristine natural site.
For those traveling with pets, Onioshidashi Park is a welcoming destination. Dogs are permitted without additional fees, and there's even a dedicated dog run adjacent to the parking lot, making it a convenient outing for families with canine companions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit