Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Gunma Prefecture

Gunma Prefecture attracts many visitors with its majestic nature, hot springs, historic architecture, and delicious local cuisine. In this article, we will introduce the top 10 must-visit tourist spots in Gunma, highlighting their unique charms, key attractions, and surrounding points of interest. If you are planning a trip, be sure to use this guide for inspiration.

1. Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan’s top three hot spring resorts and is a signature destination of Gunma Prefecture. With an abundant water flow of 32,300 liters per minute, the sulfuric aroma and billowing steam envelop the quaint hot spring town centered around the iconic Yubatake (hot water field).

Highlights

• Yubatake Light-up: At night, Yubatake is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Yumomi Show: Witness the traditional practice of cooling hot spring water by hand, an experience steeped in Kusatsu’s culture.
• Footbaths: Several free footbath spots are available, perfect for a quick break during your stroll.

Nearby Attractions

• Mount Shirane: Accessible by car, the summit offers breathtaking seasonal views.
• Shiga Kogen: A natural resort area ideal for skiing and hiking.

2. Ikaho Onsen

Ikaho Onsen is a charming hot spring town famous for its 365 stone steps. Visitors can enjoy two types of spring water: “Golden Water” and “Silver Water.” Along the stone steps, you’ll find traditional inns and retro cafes.

Highlights

• Stone Steps Street: Lined with souvenir shops and cafes, this area is a delightful spot to explore.
• Ikaho Onsen Open-air Bath: Relax in an outdoor bath surrounded by nature.
• Ikaho Shrine: Located at the top of the stone steps, it enshrines the guardian deity of the hot spring town.

Nearby Attractions

• Nagai Shokudo: Famous for Gunma’s specialty, motsu-ni (stewed offal). Arrive early as it often sells out quickly.
• Lake Haruna: A beautiful lake for outdoor activities, especially stunning during autumn.
• Ikaho Green Bokujo: A family-friendly farm offering horseback riding and milking experiences.

3. Mount Tanigawa

Mount Tanigawa, standing at 1,977 meters, offers stunning views and well-maintained hiking trails suitable for beginners. The Tanigawadake Ropeway takes visitors up to Tenjindaira, where panoramic scenery awaits.

Highlights

• Tenjindaira: A great spot to enjoy breathtaking views with minimal effort via the ropeway.
• Hiking Trails: From beginner-friendly paths to advanced routes, there’s a trail for everyone.
• Nature Observation: Discover seasonal plants and wildlife during your hike.

Nearby Attractions

• Tanigawadake Ropeway: Stretching 2.3 kilometers, the ride provides incredible views.
• Minakami Onsen Village: A hot spring area ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Suwakyo Gorge: A nearby valley offering scenic walks and river activities.

4. Tomioka Silk Mill

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tomioka Silk Mill showcases Japan’s industrial history and its role in modernizing the silk industry. Visitors can explore the brick buildings and see historic silk-reeling machines.

Highlights

• East Cocoon Warehouse: An impressive brick building showcasing Japan’s early modern architecture.
• Worker Dormitory Remains: Learn about the lives of laborers during the Meiji era.
• Guided Tours: Popular tours provide in-depth insights into the mill’s history.

Nearby Attractions

• Konjac Park: A theme park where you can enjoy various konjac dishes.
• World Heritage Center: A facility for deepening your understanding of the silk mill’s significance.

5. Fukiware Falls

Known as the “Niagara of the East,” Fukiware Falls is a spectacular waterfall that is 7 meters high and 30 meters wide. Well-maintained walking trails allow visitors to experience the falls up close.

Highlights

• Walking Trails: Scenic paths surround the falls, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Takimi Bridge: A great photo spot offering a panoramic view of the falls.
• Seasonal Scenery: Enjoy the beauty of fresh greenery in spring or vibrant autumn colors.

Nearby Attractions

• Oze National Park: A sprawling highland wetland ideal for nature lovers.
• Oigami Onsen: A peaceful hot spring retreat in the mountains.
• Michi-no-Eki Kawaba Den-en Plaza: A popular roadside station offering local specialties.

6. Lake Haruna and Haruna Shrine

Lake Haruna is a caldera lake perfect for boating and camping. Haruna Shrine, with a history spanning over 1,400 years, is a renowned power spot in the Kanto region.

Highlights

• Lake Haruna Cruise: Enjoy the scenic lake views from a boat.
• Main Shrine of Haruna Shrine: Admire the sacred atmosphere of this architectural gem.
• Sacred Path: Walk along the mystical cedar-lined approach to the shrine.

Nearby Attractions

• Haruna Fuji: Take the ropeway to enjoy stunning summit views.
• Takasaki Haruna Historical Museum: Learn about the area’s cultural and historical significance.

7. Mount Myogi

Mount Myogi is famed for its dramatic rock formations and is considered one of Japan’s top three scenic spots. It’s ideal for hiking and offers unique, rugged landscapes.

Highlights

• Hiking Routes: Trails range from light hikes for beginners to advanced climbing routes.
• Rock Formations: Marvel at the distinctive and unusual rock shapes.
• Myogi Shrine: A historic shrine located at the mountain’s base.

Nearby Attractions

• Nakanojo Shrine: A shrine dedicated to Daikokuten, the god of wealth.
• Michi-no-Eki Myogi: A roadside station featuring local produce and specialties.

8. Lockheart Castle

Lockheart Castle is an authentic European castle relocated from Scotland. It serves as a museum, wedding venue, and photo spot with a distinctly medieval European vibe.

Highlights

• Dress-Up Experience: Try on medieval European costumes for memorable photos.
• Castle Museum: Explore art and antique furniture from Europe.
• Heart Bell: A romantic photo spot for couples.

Nearby Attractions

• Ikaho Green Bokujo: Just a 10-minute drive away.
• Mizusawa Udon: Savor one of Gunma’s most famous noodle dishes.

9. Konjac Park

Konjac Park is a unique theme park where visitors can learn about konjac production and enjoy various konjac dishes. Hands-on workshops make it a hit with families.

Highlights

• Konjac Buffet: A free all-you-can-eat konjac dish experience.
• Production Line Tour: Watch the konjac-making process up close.
• Workshop Area: Try your hand at making konjac products.

Nearby Attractions

• Takasaki Byakue Kannon: A towering 41.8-meter-tall statue of Kannon.
• Tomioka Silk Mill: Just a 30-minute drive away.

10. Haruna Area

In addition to Lake Haruna and Haruna Shrine, the surrounding Haruna area offers abundant natural beauty, including hiking trails and picturesque spots for relaxation.

Highlights

• Autumn Colors: Witness the stunning fall foliage as the mountains turn red and gold.
• Campsites: Enjoy outdoor adventures at lakeside camping grounds.
• Lakeside Cafes: Relax with a coffee while enjoying scenic views.

Nearby Attractions

• Haruna Fuji Ropeway: Ascend to the summit for breathtaking vistas.
• Haruna Mountain Drive: A scenic route perfect for a leisurely drive through nature.

Conclusion

Gunma Prefecture offers a diverse array of attractions, including hot springs, natural wonders, historical landmarks, and delectable cuisine, appealing to all types of travelers. For history enthusiasts, Tomioka Silk Mill and Haruna Shrine are must-visits. Nature lovers will enjoy Mount Tanigawa, Fukiware Falls, and Lake Haruna, while hot spring fans should head to Kusatsu Onsen or Ikaho Onsen.

Use this guide to plan an unforgettable trip to Gunma Prefecture, and discover its hidden gems as you explore its rich and varied attractions. Enjoy your travels!

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