Kanna Town is a small mountain community in Tano District, southwestern Gunma Prefecture, with a population of approximately 1,800. The clear-flowing Kanna River, which gave the town its name, runs through the center of the area, while mountains of western Joshu surround the town on all sides.
Kanna is also famous as the place where dinosaur footprint fossils were first discovered in Japan, earning it the nickname “Dinosaur Kingdom.” The area around the town hall is approximately 340 meters above sea level, while mountains reaching around 1,000 meters rise throughout the surrounding area.
Of the town’s total area of approximately 114.69 square kilometers, around 90 percent is covered by forest. Flat land is limited, and terraced fields can be found on the steep mountain slopes. Surrounded by lush greenery and clear mountain water, Kanna has a nostalgic atmosphere that evokes the warmth of a traditional Japanese rural hometown.
On April 3, 1985, dinosaur footprint fossils were discovered for the first time in Japan in what was then Nakazato Village. This historic discovery became the catalyst for local revitalization efforts centered on dinosaurs, and the village began promoting itself as a “Dinosaur Kingdom.”
In 1987, the Kanna Dinosaur Centre, the area’s principal dinosaur-themed facility, opened and became the center of tourism and educational activities related to dinosaurs.
In 2003, Nakazato Village and Manba Town merged to form present-day Kanna Town. The name “Dinosaur Kingdom Nakazato” was retained, and tourism and educational programs centered on dinosaurs have continued ever since.
The Dinosaur Centre features fossil exhibits, dinosaur models, and hands-on educational experiences, making it an attraction that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
Kanna Town hosts a variety of events throughout the year, giving visitors opportunities to experience the town in different seasons.
In spring, the Koinobori Festival fills the sky with colorful carp streamers above the clear river. The event is said to have been the first festival in Japan to turn koinobori, traditional carp-shaped streamers flown for Children’s Day, into a major local event.
Summer brings Kanna no Ryo, an event centered on enjoying the cool waters of the river. In autumn, the mountainous terrain provides the setting for the Kanna Mountain Run & Walk, attracting participants from across Japan.
During winter, the Kanna Winter Illumination adds a warm glow to the town. These seasonal events offer visitors a chance to experience the changing character of this mountain community throughout the year.
Serinashi no Renkon, designated a natural monument by Gunma Prefecture, is a valuable geological site preserving traces of an ancient seashore from the Cretaceous period. Alongside fossilized ripple marks left by waves, approximately 50 dinosaur footprints of various sizes remain visible on the rock surface.
Standing before these ancient traces offers a fascinating glimpse into a world that existed millions of years ago.
In spring, the weeping cherry tree at Ryushoji Temple bursts into bloom, attracting visitors for hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying cherry blossoms.
The sight of the graceful branches against the peaceful backdrop of the mountain village creates a particularly tranquil springtime scene.
Hayataki Falls is a powerful plunging waterfall on the Shiozawa River, with a drop of approximately 30 to 40 meters. It is especially famous in winter, when the waterfall can freeze into a spectacular icefall.
At an elevation of around 900 meters, the area becomes extremely cold in winter. The waterfall generally begins freezing around the end of December and can become almost completely frozen around February.
The surrounding forest is home to deciduous trees such as konara oak and maple, providing beautiful scenery in every season.
Shiramizu Falls is a subsurface-flow waterfall formed by water emerging from the mountainside of Mount Kanou and flowing down a moss-covered slope. The soft, white stream resembles delicate threads of water and gives the waterfall an elegant, graceful appearance.
The distinctive landscape created by the limestone geology of the area is another highlight of this natural attraction.
Irisawa Falls is a two-tiered waterfall whose lower section flows over a layer of hard chert. It is also known as a waterfall that can be viewed from behind.
A small shrine dedicated to Fudō Myōō stands behind the waterfall. The deity has long been worshipped here, and the site is known as “Miguri Fudō,” a name associated with a local tradition of devotion.
Roadside Station Manyo no Sato is a popular base for exploring Kanna Town, with an attractive riverside terrace overlooking the Kanna River.
On clear days, visitors can relax on the terrace surrounded by fresh green foliage while watching the transparent waters of the river flow below.
The area’s famous Manyo Suspension Bridge is a thrilling footbridge so narrow that people cross it one at a time. Its design allows visitors to see through the floor beneath their feet, adding an extra sense of excitement.
The views from the bridge are particularly impressive, with the clear river and rugged rock formations spreading out below.
The roadside station’s shop sells a selection of locally produced goods, including freshly harvested seasonal vegetables, honey, and miso made by a local miso producer.
At the restaurant, visitors can enjoy handmade soba noodles prepared using buckwheat grown in Kanna Town and stone-ground before being made into noodles. The noodles are known for their firm texture and naturally sweet flavor.
Other local specialties worth trying include Manyo Tofu, made with the region’s distinctive Awabata soybeans, and smooth soy milk pudding.
Kanna Town makes the most of its beautiful natural environment of clear rivers and forest-covered mountains while placing great importance on the warm hospitality of its residents. Community members work together to create a welcoming town, and this spirit of local cooperation is one of Kanna’s most appealing qualities.
From the mystery of dinosaurs and the beauty of crystal-clear mountain streams to seasonal festivals and peaceful rural landscapes, Kanna Town offers an opportunity to experience a quieter side of Japan where nature and history come together.
For travelers looking to escape the bustle of the city and spend time surrounded by mountains, rivers, and welcoming local communities, Kanna provides a peaceful and memorable rural experience.