Gunma Travel Recommendations

Gunma Prefecture is located on the island of Honshu and is situated in the Kanto region of Japan. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Niigata Prefecture, and Fukushima Prefecture. In this article, we will provide you with an overview of Gunma Prefecture, including how to get there from Tokyo, the best season to visit, and must-see places.

Getting to Gunma from Tokyo

There are several ways to get to Gunma Prefecture from Tokyo. The most popular mode of transportation is by train. You can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Takasaki Station in Gunma Prefecture. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes and costs around 6,500 yen one way. From Takasaki Station, you can transfer to local trains to get to various destinations within Gunma Prefecture.

Alternatively, you can take a highway bus from Tokyo Station to various cities in Gunma Prefecture. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your destination, and costs around 2,000-3,000 yen one way.

Best Season to Visit Gunma

The best season to visit Gunma Prefecture is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the scenery is stunning. In spring, you can see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, and in autumn, the vibrant colors of the leaves create a beautiful backdrop.

Summer (June to August) is also a good time to visit Gunma Prefecture, especially for outdoor activities such as hiking and river rafting. However, the weather can be hot and humid, so be sure to pack appropriately.

Winter (December to February) is another great time to visit Gunma Prefecture if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The prefecture has several ski resorts, including the popular Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort.

Must-See Places in Gunma

Gunma Prefecture is well-known for its natural hot springs (onsen), mountains, and scenic views. Here are some of the must-see places in Gunma Prefecture:

Tomioka Silk Mill

This World Heritage Site was once the largest silk manufacturing plant in Japan. The mill played a significant role in Japan’s industrialization and is now open to the public as a museum.

Kusatsu Onsen

This hot spring town is one of the most popular destinations in Gunma Prefecture. The onsen waters are said to cure various ailments and provide relaxation to those who visit.

Mount Haruna

This mountain is a popular hiking spot and has a stunning view of Lake Haruna. During the autumn season, the mountain is covered in colorful leaves.

Ikaho Onsen

This hot spring town has a unique stone staircase that is over 300 years old. Visitors can bathe in the hot springs and walk up the staircase to reach the top of the town.

Tenjindaira Ski Resort

This ski resort is known for its powder snow and is one of the best places to ski and snowboard in Japan.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Gunma

Oyaki

Oyaki is a traditional dumpling of Gunma Prefecture. It is made by steaming the dough with a filling of vegetables or red bean paste inside. The dough is made from wheat flour, water, and salt. They are often served grilled or pan-fried, and they are a delicious and filling snack or meal.

Houtou

Houtou is a traditional noodle dish of Gunma Prefecture. It is a thick and hearty noodle soup made with wheat noodles, vegetables, and meat. The soup base is made with miso paste and is seasoned with soy sauce and other ingredients. It is often served hot in a large pot with a lid to keep it warm.

Mizusawa Udon

Mizusawa Udon is a type of noodle that is famous in Gunma Prefecture. It is made by hand using locally sourced ingredients. The noodles are thick and chewy, and they are served in a hot soup with a variety of toppings such as tofu, cabbage, and scallions. The soup is made from pork bones and soy sauce, giving it a rich and savory flavor.

Takasaki Negi Soba

Takasaki Negi Soba is a type of buckwheat noodle that is famous in Takasaki City. The noodles are thin and delicate, and they are served cold with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, dashi, and green onions. The green onions are grown locally and are a specialty of the region. The dish is refreshing and perfect for a hot summer day.

Toge no Kamameshi

Toge no Kamameshi is a type of rice dish that is cooked in a traditional iron pot. It is made with local ingredients such as matsutake mushrooms, chestnuts, and wild boar. The rice is cooked in a broth made from soy sauce and other seasonings, giving it a rich and savory flavor. The dish is often served with pickles and miso soup.

Recommended Accommodations in Gunma

Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Village

Located in Kusatsu, this hotel provides traditional Japanese-style rooms with hot springs and an outdoor pool. It’s a great choice for those who want to experience Japanese culture while enjoying the luxury.

Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

This hotel is located in Minakami and has outdoor hot springs with views of the Takaragawa River. The rooms are also Japanese-style and have tatami flooring.

Manza Prince Hotel

Located in Tsumagoi, this hotel has ski-in/ski-out access and a golf course. It also has several hot springs, both indoor and outdoor, and restaurants serving Japanese and Western cuisine.

Hotel Tenbo

This hotel is located in the mountains of Takasaki and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The rooms are spacious and have modern amenities, as well as access to an on-site hot spring.

Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan

Located in Nakanojo, this traditional ryokan has Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futons. It has several hot springs, both indoor and outdoor, and serves delicious kaiseki cuisine.

Oyado Tamaki

This ryokan is located in Kusatsu and has spacious Japanese-style rooms with private hot springs. The outdoor hot spring overlooks Mount Shirane and the surrounding area.

Ryokan Tanigawa

Located in Minakami, this ryokan has Japanese-style rooms with a private outdoor hot spring. It also has an indoor hot spring, a sauna, and a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine.

Hotel Yukyunohana

This hotel, located in Kusatsu, has a variety of rooms, including Japanese-style rooms with private hot springs. It also has several communal hot springs, both indoor and outdoor.

Dogo Onsen Funaya

Located in Kusatsu, this ryokan has Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futons. It has several indoor and outdoor hot springs, as well as a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine.

Chikumagawa Tei

This ryokan is located in Takasaki and has Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futons. It also has several indoor and outdoor hot springs, a sauna, and a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gunma Prefecture is a hidden gem in Japan that offers stunning scenery, natural hot springs, and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. With easy access from Tokyo and various must-see places to explore, it is a destination that should not be missed.