Shibu Pass
渋峠
At 2,172 meters, the highest point on Japan's national highways, on the border of Gunma and Nagano prefectures. In spring, when the road reopens, snow walls several meters high line the route.
Shibu Pass lies on National Route 292, the Shiga-Kusatsu Road. At 2,172 meters, it is the highest point on any Japanese national highway. A stone marker declares it the "Highest Point on Japan's National Highways." The prefectural border between Gunma and Nagano runs through the Shibu Pass Hotel. When the road reopens in late April, the snow walls on either side can reach several meters high. In summer the air is cool, and you can see the Northern Alps and the Shiga Highlands. In autumn the hillsides turn red with maple leaves. The road is closed in winter, roughly from mid-November to late April, and it is also affected by restrictions tied to volcanic activity at Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, so check road information in advance. It takes about 40 minutes to drive from Kusatsu.
Opening hours
Road open approx. late Apr–mid Nov
Nearby sights
- Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane Yugama
- Manza Onsen
- Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort
- Sainokawara Open-air Bath
- Sainokawara Park
- Shirane Shrine
- Kosen-ji Temple
- Gozanoyu