Gunma

About This Prefecture

Gunma is a center for Tengu worship, reflecting the region's powerful mountain ascetic traditions. On sacred peaks like Mt. Kashiya, these bird-like goblins are respected as divine protectors. Gunma is also known for its fierce winds, which gave rise to the legend of Kamaitachi—the Sickle Weasel that rides on whirlwinds to cut travelers. Folklore in Gunma personifies the raw, often harsh energy of the Japanese Alps. The spirits here are depicted as stern and powerful entities, serving as cultural symbols of the awe-inspiring and unpredictable natural environment. These tales highlight the resilience of locals living in harmony with the wild forces of nature.