50 recommended sightseeing spots in Gunma! You can’t go wrong here!

Gunma Prefecture, shaped like a vine, is surrounded by mountains, and some people may think that it is difficult to live there because of its hot summers and strong winds in the winter. However, Gunma has many tourist spots where you can enjoy outdoor activities unique to the prefecture, taking advantage of the mountains. If you enjoy outdoor activities, reserving a cheap rental car in Gunma Prefecture will come in handy when you need to carry heavy leisure equipment. Gunma is also one of Japan's leading hot spring powerhouses, including Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's three most famous hot springs.

Gunma Prefecture is easily accessible, about two hours by car from Tokyo. Here we introduce tourist spots unique to inland Gunma. After reading this, you'll fall in love with Gunma even more!

1. Tomioka Silk Mill

The Tomioka Silk Mill was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2014 and has become a famous tourist spot in Gunma. It was built by the Meiji government in 1872 at the end of the Edo period to export raw silk from Gunma to foreign countries.

There are a total of nine buildings on the premises, and you can actually visit two buildings: the "Reeling House" where the silk was extracted from the cocoons and the "East Cocoon Warehouse" where the cocoons were stored.

If you are touring Gunma on your own, we recommend taking a guided tour or audio guide, which requires a fee. You can get an easy-to-understand explanation of Gunma's historic facilities, so you can enjoy your trip even more and learn a lot.

You cannot eat inside the factory, but there are many shops and tourist spots in the surrounding area, so don't worry. There are soba restaurants, Italian restaurants, cafes, and other places that are perfect for lunch, so please stop by while you're sightseeing.

2. Lake Nozori

Lake Nozori is a popular tourist spot in Gunma, also known as the lake in the sky. Located in Gunma Prefecture's Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, it offers a spectacular view from an altitude of about 1,500m.

There are many hiking trails, so you can choose one that suits your time and stamina. Even beginners can enjoy sightseeing. If you want to see a field of bright yellow Hemerocallis daylilies, we recommend visiting around mid-July. The Hemerocallis daylilies stand out beautifully against Gunma's blue sky and green marshland.

If you want to take your time sightseeing, why not try lakeside camping? There are plenty of accommodations and rental items, so you can come empty-handed. Spending time in a bungalow or tent near Gunma's beautiful, crystal-clear lake is an exceptional experience.

3. Mount Myogi

Mount Myogi in Gunma is famous for its many strangely shaped rocks. Made up of many peaks, Mount Myogi has the highest peak, Soma-dake, at about 1,100m above sea level.

There are many uniquely shaped rocks, and some mountain climbing courses start with chain sections, making it a difficult mountain for tourists. For those without rock climbing experience, some courses are difficult to climb, but the course that follows the Kanto Fureai Trail is well-maintained and recommended for beginners. The tourist season is from mid-April to around May when you can enjoy cherry blossoms and fresh greenery.

For those with plenty of climbing experience and who have the stamina and courage, there are also serious climbing courses, so please give it a try.

4. Gunma Safari Park

Gunma Safari Park opened in 1979 as the first large-scale safari park in eastern Japan. The vast park is home to about 1000 animals of 100 different species.

You can meet many large animals in Gunma, including lions and tigers, as well as giraffes and Asiatic black bears. The feeding experience bus is particularly impressive, as you can feed lions and herbivores from inside the bus. This is a very popular tourist course, so if you are considering using it, please do so early.

We also recommend the night safari tour, which is held for a limited time from April to October. After sunset, you will tour the park by bus after it gets dark. You will be able to see lions and zebras with a different wild look than during the day.

Gunma Safari Park also has an amusement park with play equipment that even small children can enjoy, so the whole family can enjoy sightseeing. There are also restaurants and shops, so you can enjoy sightseeing all day long.

5. Konnyaku Park

Gunma Prefecture produces about 90% of Japan's konjac, and the famous tourist spot is Konjac Park. It is also a 15-minute drive from the Tomioka Silk Mill, a World Heritage Site in Gunma Prefecture.

You can learn about Gunma's Konjac, which you may think you know but don't really understand, by enjoying a factory tour. The reservation-based Konjac-making experience offers courses where you can color white Konjac or make your favorite shapes from Konjac powder, allowing you to learn more about it.

The most popular attraction is the buffet, which you can enjoy for free. You can enjoy all-you-can-eat Gunma konjac dishes that are surprisingly arranged. There is also a sweets buffet corner, and the konjac agar jelly, which is full of dietary fiber that is often lacking, is excellent. It is very healthy and low in calories, so it is recommended for those on a diet.

In the Gunma souvenir corner, you can also fill a plastic bag with as much konjac as you want for a fee. There are also many other surprising products such as konnyaku bread and konnyaku ramen, so be sure to stop by.

6. Mount Arafune

Mt. Arafune in Gunma is famous for its appearance which looks like a giant ship. It is about 1,400m above sea level and is one of the 200 famous mountains in Japan. The flat summit is a plateau covered with rocks that stretches about 2km from north to south and about 400m from east to west.

There are three courses for sightseeing and climbing, and some courses can be completed in about 4 hours round trip. The most popular trailhead is Uchiyama Pass, which is easily accessible and recommended for sightseeing. There are some steep sections, but it is a good course for beginners to get used to climbing.

On the way, the observation deck at Tonoiwa is a 200m cliff, and you can look down and see the national highway far below. On a clear day, you can see the magnificent view of Mt. Asama in Gunma nearby and the Northern Alps in the distance.

7. Mount Haruna

Mount Haruna is made up of a variety of volcanoes, large and small, surrounding Gunma's caldera lake, Lake Haruna. It is a collective name for the many peaks. Among them, "Haruna Fuji" is popular for its stunning symmetry.

You can reach the top in about an hour even if you walk slowly, and the hiking trail is well-maintained, so it's safe for sightseeing with children. There is also a ropeway to the peak, so you can enjoy an aerial stroll over Gunma on the way back.

Driving and touring in Gunma are also recommended, as the road was the model for the manga "Initial D". Please drive safely and enjoy sightseeing.

8. Lake Haruna

Located at the summit of Mount Haruna, Lake Haruna is the second-highest lake in Japan. Because it is located in the highlands of Gunma, it is cool in the summer, and the lakeside has become an auto camping site, making it popular with tourists. There are many tent sites, bungalows, trailer houses, etc., so families with children can feel safe. There is also a convenient shop in the center house.

The lake is bustling with various boats, with sightseeing boats in operation from early spring to autumn. It is also known as a place where you can catch black bass and smelt, and tournaments are held, so fishing lovers should definitely come.

In addition, fireworks are held in the summer, and the fireworks reflected in the air and on the lake are a competition of lights. Laser shows and floating lanterns are also held, so it is recommended for sightseeing in Gunma in the summer.

9. Misato Moss Phlox Park

Misato Shibazakura Park is beautiful with its carpet of colorful moss phlox. Moss phlox is also known as Hanatumekusa, and blooms flowers similar to cherry blossoms, but instead of blooming on trees, they bloom along the ground.

The hills in the park were designed to resemble the pink feather robe left behind by Orihime, and the colorful moss phlox expresses patterns such as undulations and swirls. They stand out against the lush greenery of Gunma.

The best time to visit is from early April to early May when the moss phlox blooms. The Misato Shibazakura Festival is held every year at that time.

There are many events and shops during the festival, where you can get Gunma's specialties and snacks. While admiring the moss phlox, be sure to try the delicious sweet miso sauce and Yakimanju, a specialty of Joshu.

10. Nanakusa Festival Daruma Market

The Nanakusa Festival Daruma Market is known as a seasonal winter event in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture. It is a festival held every year from January 6th to 7th at Shorinzan Daruma Temple, which continues through the night.

Shorinzan Daruma Temple is the birthplace of Gunma's Takasaki Daruma dolls, which were created about 200 years ago. After that, many people began making them, and they began to be sold on the festival day of the Nanakusa Festival, which is how the current Daruma Market began.

Daruma shops and stalls line the grounds, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists. The Takasaki Daruma dolls from Gunma sold here are popular as lucky dolls, with their eyebrows representing cranes and whiskers representing turtles. If you're visiting, be sure to buy one to pray for the safety of your family and prosperity in business.

11. Haruna Shrine

Haruna Shrine is a power spot in Gunma that attracts many tourists throughout the year. Located on the side of Mount Haruna, the shrine is surrounded by nature.

From the mountain gate to the main hall, there is a gentle uphill climb, a bit like a hiking trail in Gunma. There are exposed rocks and many giant trees, creating a divine atmosphere. There are also shops along the approach where you can take a rest and enjoy Gunma cuisine, so you can enjoy sightseeing.

Once you arrive at the main hall, we recommend praying and then drawing a "Gosui Good Luck Fortune Slip." When you draw it, there is nothing written on it, but there is a zone where holy water springs up, and if you dip it in the water, the letters will appear. Be sure to try out this fortune slip, which is said to be very accurate.

12. SL Minakami

The steam locomotive "SL" ran from the Meiji to the Showa eras. It is hard to see these days, but you can meet them on the "SL Minakami" that runs through Gunma Prefecture.

The train runs during summer vacation, the autumn foliage tourist season, Golden Week, and the New Year holidays. It takes about two hours to travel the 59.1 km from Takasaki Station in Gunma to Minakami Station. The train runs on D51 and C61 steam locomotives, which were active throughout Japan from the 1930s to the 1970s.

The passenger cars pulled by the SL include old passenger cars and 12-series passenger cars, and the old passenger cars are recommended. The old passenger cars were manufactured before 1965, and their traditional wooden interiors create a nostalgic Gunma trip. This passenger car is very popular with tourists, so make your reservation early.

In addition, the onboard sales also sell products that are perfect as a memento of your ride, such as Joshu 51 bento and SL cookies, so we recommend them. Please enjoy sightseeing on the SL Minakami in Gunma.

13. Kamitsukeno Haniwa no Sato Park

Kamitomono Haniwa no Sato Park is a historical park in Gunma with three large ancient tombs. The park is like a theme park, with museums, a literature museum, workshops, and restaurants. The outer moat is a tourist spot in Gunma where flowers bloom in every season, with sunflowers in summer and cosmos in autumn.

The Hodota Tomb Group is a large keyhole-shaped tomb built from the late 5th century to the 6th century and is the tomb of a powerful clan in Gunma. Each is about 100 meters long, surrounded by a vast double moat, and many haniwa are lined up.

The museum also displays haniwa of people and animals from the Kofun period, as well as models that recreate the time, allowing you to feel the richness of the hearts of ancient people through the lives and haniwa of ancient people.

In addition, you can make haniwa for free at the haniwa workshop, and when you finish it, your name will be engraved and it will be placed around the ancient tomb. Please make one as a souvenir of your visit to Gunma.

14. Shaolin Daruma Temple

Shorinzan Daruma Temple is the birthplace of Gunma's "Takasaki Daruma," a daruma doll known for its good luck. The Daruma Hall has a collection of daruma dolls collected from all over the country, including one that is about 3 meters tall. You will be overwhelmed by the Daruma dolls everywhere.

Senshintei, located at the eastern end of the temple grounds and once the residence of a world-famous German architectural scholar, is a wooden one-story building that remains as it was at the time and is full of atmosphere. It is even more picturesque during the autumn foliage tourist season.

For those who collect temple stamps, we also recommend the temple stamp book. It is beautiful with its elaborate design and embroidered daruma dolls.

The temple is easily accessible, about 15 minutes by bus from JR Takasaki Station, so be sure to visit it as part of your first visit to Gunma.

15. Ikaho Toy, Doll and Car Museum

Ikaho Toy, Doll, and Automobile Museum is known as one of the largest amusement parks in Japan. Inside the museum, you can see exhibits from various eras, such as nostalgic toys and dolls from the Showa era, and an automobile museum.

The Toy and Doll Museum has a nostalgic atmosphere and is filled with rare items such as a tin toy specialty store, a Kewpie shop, and Japanese dolls from the Edo period. The retro theme park also has a candy store, a shooting gallery, and a store selling spinning tops and paper balloons, so children can enjoy sightseeing.

In addition, the Automobile Museum has 70 famous cars on display at all times, including sports cars from the 1960s, family cars from the 1930s, and light cars. There may even be a car that your father or grandfather drove. In addition, the mini museum, which collects a variety of color designs of the popular British car "Mini Cooper", is also recommended for sightseeing.

After sightseeing, why not try the cafe space where you can enjoy wine and coffee from around the world? In Gunma, you can enjoy French and Italian wine in a square that resembles a European townscape.

16. Isobe Onsen

Gunma's hot spring town was formed along the Usui River. Isobe Onsen, which gushed forth during the Edo Period due to the eruption of Mt. Asama, has been healing people traveling along Gunma's highways since ancient times. It boasts hot spring ingredients that compete for the top spot in Gunma Prefecture, and its waters are great for women as they are known for their beauty-enhancing properties. Even the casual foot bath will leave your body warm for a while after bathing.

In fact, this hot spring tourism town is also said to be the birthplace of the hot spring symbol. Incidentally, the Isobe Onsen Festival is held every year from August 14th to 16th, so if you visit during the Obon holiday period, you can enjoy sightseeing along with the traditional summer scenery!

17. Usui Third Bridge (Megane Bridge)

The beautiful Usui Third Bridge is a four-arch brick bridge. Commonly known as the Megane Bridge, it is loved by Gunma residents and tourists alike. It was designed by a British engineer and Furukawa Seiichi.

Megane Bridge was built as one of the bridges on the line connecting Yokokawa Station and Karuizawa Station in Gunma Prefecture. At 31m high and 91m long, it was the largest bridge at the time and was made from more than 2 million bricks. The red brick arch, completed during the Meiji period, has a retro feel to it.

It's a tourist spot that offers a spectacular view from above as well as from below. The original railroad tracks are no longer there, but it has been maintained for tourists, so be sure to check it out.

18. Usui Pass

Usui Pass is located on the border between Gunma and Nagano prefectures. It is about 1000m above sea level and is a watershed that divides the river system.

There are many tourist spots around Usui Pass, such as the Usui Pass Railway Culture Village, Lake Usui, and Megane Bridge. The Aputo no Michi hiking course, which is a one-day walk around the area, is a popular tourist course. It starts at Yokokawa Station on the Shinetsu Line and takes you to the remains of the Maruyama Substation, Toge no Yu, Megane Bridge, and Lake Usui.

Toge no Yu is recommended because you can enjoy Gunma's natural hot springs, including an open-air bath and a large bath. You can also relax after sightseeing in Gunma.

In addition, at the Yokokawa Service Area on the Joshinetsu Expressway, an actual train from the Shinetsu Main Line before it was abolished is on display. You can buy "Toge no Kamameshi" (rice cooked in a pot) at the shop and eat it on the train, so you can enjoy the feeling of traveling in Gunma.

19. Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park

Usui Pass Railway Culture Park is Gunma's leading railway theme park, captivating everyone from small children to railway enthusiasts. The facility is located at Usui Pass, where the old Usui Line ran from 1893 to 1997.

The vast grounds include a railway museum that tells the history of the old Usui Line, and an outdoor exhibition area with over 30 vehicles on display. The most recommended attraction is the Railway Exhibition Hall, which features a variety of trains. In Gunma, you can experience simulators that use the cabs of actual electric locomotives and the Asama Express.

For those who are not satisfied with the simulator, there is also a plan where you can drive a real electric locomotive. After taking a practical exam that takes about a day, you can become a long-awaited engineer if you pass the final exam. If you have always dreamed of driving a train or locomotive, be sure to give it a try.

Another place that families can enjoy is the popular trolley train line. A train that actually ran on the old Usui Line runs about 2.6 km inside the facility. There are also open-top passenger cars, so you can enjoy an open-air sightseeing experience in Gunma.

20. Akagi Cronenberg

Akagi Kronenberg will make you feel like you are sightseeing in Germany. Beautiful German cityscapes spread out at the foot of Gunma's majestic Mount Akagi, and you can enjoy Gunma's natural scenery such as ranches and lakes.

Children will be delighted to interact with many animals at the ranch, including the popular alpacas, donkeys, and sheep. You can have a special experience in Gunma, such as horse riding, feeding, and sheep driving shows.

There is also a wide variety of gourmet food, and you can enjoy authentic German cuisine and local beer at the restaurant "Krone". At the stone oven bread and pizza factory "Holz", you can taste German-style bread and pizza baked in a stone oven using firewood. There is also a barbecue house, so it is recommended for families and large groups. It is popular because you can visit Gunma empty-handed.

Also, the fireworks festival held every July is a must-see. The fireworks, which are watched along with the German countryside scenery and music, are exceptional. Please enjoy them with beer and sausages.

21. Fujido

Fujido Cave is known as the largest cave in the Kanto region. It is located in Kawawa Natural Park in Gunma Prefecture and is a natural monument of Gunma.

It is about 2km long and takes about 40 minutes to go around once. As it is located at an altitude of 700m, the temperature inside the cave is about 11 degrees all year round, cool in summer and warm in winter, making it ideal for sightseeing.

The interior of the cave is lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere. The beauty of the stalactites hanging down like icicles is also captivating. There is also a spiral staircase inside the rugged interior, making it look like a movie set. Try sightseeing while feeling like an explorer.

22. Ueno Sky Bridge

For those who love high places, Gunma's Ueno Sky Bridge is a must-see. It is a pedestrian-only suspension bridge that is 90 meters high and 225 meters long.

From the bridge, you can enjoy Gunma's beautiful mountains and feel exhilarated. The spectacular view will make you want to scream.

On weekends and holidays from April to November, soap bubbles are blown around at certain times, making it a recommended sightseeing spot. You can enjoy the fantastic and extraordinary scenery of Gunma with countless rainbow-colored soap bubbles.

Also, during the autumn foliage tourist season, the mountains colored red and yellow look like a painting. Be sure to enjoy an aerial walk in Gunma.

23. Ikaho Onsen

Ikaho Onsen is extremely well-known within Gunma Prefecture. You can see tourists in yukata strolling through the stone steps. Ikaho Onsen is packed with tourist spots that both adults and children can enjoy! Try a shooting game while eating hot spring buns. On cold days, warm your whole body in a foot bath... such blissful moments await you.

Ikaho Onsen is also famous for two baths: the golden hot spring, which is characterized by its brown color, and the colorless and transparent silver hot spring. The golden hot spring in particular is known for its beautiful spring quality, which is great for women! You'll want to enjoy both baths. Even if you can't stay overnight in Gunma, you can enjoy a day trip to the hot springs.

24. Manza Onsen

Gunma's Manza Onsen boasts an abundant supply of hot water, with temperatures as high as 80 degrees. The sulfur springs, which have a distinctive rotten egg scent, are said to be effective against lifestyle habits and atopic dermatitis. Another unique feature is that it is located in Takayama, Gunma! In winter, it is nice to be able to bathe immediately after enjoying winter sports at the nearby ski resort.

The hotels lined up in the hot spring town boast open-air baths where you can enjoy the nature of Gunma, which changes with the seasons. The contrast of the greenery and sky reflected in the milky white water is one of a kind. There are also hotels with rare mixed-gender open-air baths. It's the talk of the town right now! It's a hot spring tourist destination that Gunma is proud of.

25. Hara Museum ARC

Located in Ikaho Green Ranch in Gunma, the Hara Museum ARC is an annex of the Hara Museum of Contemporary Art in Tokyo. The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Arata Isozaki. The beautiful black stable-style building stands out among the lush greenery of Gunma.

Inside the museum, there is a gallery of contemporary art from the 1950s onwards and a special exhibition room displaying ancient Oriental art, including early modern Japanese paintings, where you can enjoy excellent art.

There are also works of art outside the building, including an impressive red heart-shaped glass object by a contemporary artist from France. The urban flair shines amid the natural beauty of Gunma.

If you want to relax during your sightseeing, we recommend Cafe d'Art, where you can relax on the terrace overlooking the ranch. They also offer special sandwiches and homemade cakes, so you can have a wonderful time.

26. Takehisa Yumeji Ikaho Memorial Museum and Sound Theme Museum

The Takehisa Yumeji Ikaho Memorial Museum stands in the vast grounds of the Taisho Romantic Forest. It is a memorial museum for Takehisa Yumeji, a painter of the "Taisho Romantic" period who was born in the Meiji era and became famous for his portraits of beautiful women. His innovative designs, commercial designs, and gentle children's drawings that have not faded even in modern times still fascinate people.

In the main building's Taisho Romantic Museum, you can enjoy the world of Yumeji's works with about 16,000 documents and paintings in a homely atmosphere. In addition, the main building's Yumeji Black Ship Museum has a Western-style exterior and an interior filled with glass shades and antiques made in the Taisho era, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of Taisho Romanticism in Gunma.

We recommend the Sound Theme Museum, where the sounds of the Taisho era resonate beautifully. Inside the museum, there are old wooden music boxes and gramophones that play romantic sounds. You can feel the world of Takehisa Yumeji through sound as well.

27. Ikaho Green Ranch

Ikaho Green Ranch in Gunma opened in 1970 with the concept of interacting with nature, people, and culture. Within the vast ranch, you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including an animal encounter park, a campsite, and a shopping plaza.

There are also plenty of experience corners, and people of all ages can enjoy activities such as milking cows, horseback riding, and strawberry picking in an eco-house.

There is also a golf course, archery range, and sports field, so why not work up a sweat with the whole family? There is also an ice cream shop nearby, where you can enjoy the extremely popular soft-serve ice cream, ice cream in a cup, and sundaes, all of which are special when eaten at the ranch.

Enjoy many experiences that you can't normally have in the great outdoors of Gunma.

Name: Ikaho Green Ranch
Address: 2844-1 Kanai, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture
Official and related site URL: http://www.greenbokujo.co.jp/

28. Tanbara Lavender Park

Gunma's Tanbara Lavender Park is home to the Kanto region's largest lavender field. Approximately 50,000 lavender plants bloom in the vast 200,000 square meter land of Gunma. The best time to see the lavender is from mid-July to mid-August. You can see 15 types of lavender, including the early-blooming Koimurasaki and the late-blooming Grosso Super Sevillian Blue.

The park has a summer mountain lift that is open for a limited time, so you can enjoy sightseeing in the air in the refreshing breeze of the plateau. You can also get a panoramic view of the lavender fields from the large observation deck at an altitude of about 1,300 meters.

There are other attractions, such as a jungle maze, trampolines, and a pool that even children can enjoy. If you get tired of sightseeing, take a break at a restaurant or cafe. How about a pork loin cutlet bowl or set meal made with Gunma's Joshu pork, or a beautiful purple lavender soft serve?

On your way back, be sure to visit a shop filled with the scent of lavender. There are also cosmetics, soaps, and aroma goods made with Gunma's lavender oil.

29. Kusatsu Onsen

This is a famous hot spring that represents not only Gunma but Japan. The acidic spring is suitable for skin diseases, and the effect is so strong that if you soak in it for a long time, you will get a hot spring shock. Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma is famous for the hot spring massage. What was originally a way to lower the temperature of the water has now become a form of exercise, so much so that dancers have been formed! Auditions are also held and it has become a specialty of the hot spring town.

The Yubatake is also a popular photo spot for tourists. The waterfall of hot spring water that falls while raising steam is very impressive. Furthermore, when lit up at night, it transforms into a fantastic space. A healing bath that you will not get bored of even if you stay there all day. Enjoy a hot spring cure trip to the famous Kusatsu Onsen.

30. Roadside Station Rural Plaza Kawaba

Roadside stations are generally thought of as resting facilities for people who drive, but Denen Plaza Kawaba is a little different. The park has a restaurant, a park with playground equipment, a pond, a workshop, and more, making it a Gunma theme park. Families can enjoy sightseeing in the lush greenery at the foot of Mt. Hotaka in Gunma Prefecture.

There are so many restaurants and eateries that make the most of Gunma's natural bounty that it's hard to choose. There are plenty of options, including Neapolitan-style pizza made in an authentic stone oven, restaurants that use local beer and Gunma-grown vegetables, crepes, and soft-serve ice cream.

One of the most recommended dishes is the Sanzoku-yaki at Meat Workshop. Ham and sausages handmade by craftsmen who trained in Germany are grilled on a hot iron plate. It is so popular with tourists that there are often long lines, so be sure to get there early.

In addition, the park is packed with fun things to do, such as picking blueberries, a pottery class where you can experience pottery on a wheel, and a workshop where you can make woodworking goods. Everyone from children to adults can play while sightseeing all day long.

31. Kusatsu Tropical Garden

Kusatsu Tropical Garden is known as Gunma's highest zoo and botanical garden in Japan. The Jungle Dome, a subtropical area that utilizes the hot spring heat of Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma, is home to rare plants and animals. There are crocodiles, snakes, flamingos, and more, and you can touch the snakes and take commemorative photos with them.

There are also other cute animals such as the capybara family, monkeys, and meerkats that are popular with tourists. If you time it right, you can touch the capybaras. You can also feed the monkeys for a fee, so why not get a closer look?

In addition, if you put your hand in the tank, a fish called a doctor's fish, Garra rufa, will eat the old dead skin and waste from your hands and feet. It's ticklish at first, but it gradually becomes more pleasant, so please try it when you visit.

32. Mt. Shirane

Mount Shirane in Gunma is home to an emerald-green crater lake. The crater lake, also known as Yugama, is cloudy white due to the effects of sulfur and iron ions from volcanic gases, giving it a dreamy appearance.

At an altitude of about 2,000m, there are well-established courses for sightseeing and mountain climbing, so even first-timers can feel at ease. The cute alpine plants such as gentians and Hakusan rhododendrons are soothing.

There is also Mount Shirane Ropeway from Sesshogawara to Ainomine, so it is recommended for those who want to sightsee near the summit. From the large windows of the ropeway, you can enjoy spectacular views of Gunma's hot spring towns and the Kusatsu Plateau.

33. Lockheart Castle

Lockheart Castle was built in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1829. After more than 150 years, it was moved and restored to Takayama Village, Gunma Prefecture in 1993.

As an old British castle was restored exactly as it was, you can feel like you are sightseeing in Europe in Gunma. Many weddings are held in the castle with its excellent atmosphere, and there are plenty of wedding plans. You can hold a special ceremony or party in a classical location.
There is also a plan where you can experience being a princess, and you can wear a gorgeous dress and have your photo taken by a photographer. There are costumes for women, children, and men, so families can enjoy it when sightseeing. Why not take a beautiful and memorable photo in an extraordinary space in Gunma?

It is also famous as a filming location in Gunma and has been used in many movies and dramas. In addition to the castle, there is also a church and a stone factory, and a workshop where you can experience making accessories, so please try it out.

34. Onioshidashi Park

Onioshidashi Park is a sea of strange rocks. It was formed by the weathering of a huge amount of lava that flowed out during the eruption of Mt. Asama in 1783.

The original name comes from the fact that people from Gunma who saw the eruption at the time said that an oni (demon) was raging in the crater and pushed out the rocks. You can witness the tremendous and grandeur of the energy of nature.

There are paved courses in the park, and you can choose one based on the amount of time you have available for sightseeing. The courses are filled with rare alpine plants, flowers, and greenery, so you can enjoy sightseeing as a walk.

There are also restaurants and places to get snacks, so you can take a break if you get tired of sightseeing. They also have ramen, Gunma-style grilled cabbage, soft-serve ice cream, and dango. The shop sells local sake and oni manju, so they are great souvenirs from Gunma.

35. Shima Onsen

A famous hot spring in Gunma Prefecture, it came to be called Shima Onsen because it cures all kinds of diseases. Its origins date back more than a thousand years. This hot spring, which was the first nationally recognized health resort, is characterized by its rejuvenating waters that are expected to have a revitalizing effect on the skin. It is one of the beauty springs that women will love.

This Shima Onsen is actually nicknamed Kusatsu Onsen, another famous hot spring in Gunma Prefecture! After sterilizing your skin with the highly acidic Kusatsu waters, finish off your skin with the moisturizing Shima waters. There is also a tourist spot nearby, Fudo Falls, so be sure to soak up plenty of negative ions when you visit.

36. Oze

Oze is also a popular summer tourist destination in Gunma. The boardwalks of Ozegahara are especially famous. Surrounded by 2000m-class mountains, Oze is a tourist spot overflowing with nature, including swamps, waterfalls, and the 100 famous mountains, centered around a marshland that stretches 12km east to west and 9km north to south.

There are various sightseeing routes, ranging from 2-3 hour courses for day trips to leisurely courses with overnight stays in mountain huts. There are a wide variety of hiking routes, so you can choose one that suits your sightseeing purpose.

If you want to see skunk cabbage, we recommend sightseeing from late May to mid-June. During this time, you can enjoy the skunk cabbage blooming in the marshland no matter which course you walk

37. Fukiware Falls

The beautiful Fukiware Falls is also known as the Niagara Falls of the Orient. The waterfall is 7 meters high and 30 meters wide, and the amount of water that falls with force is overwhelming. This is a tourist spot where you can feel the dynamic nature of the cracks in the rocks that were formed over 10,000 years.

The surrounding area is very well maintained and is a popular tourist destination. The promenade leading to the falls is lined with souvenir shops and stores. If you walk along the promenade, you will see the 15-meter-high Masuhi Falls. It is said that this name comes from the fact that a trout that came up from the sea was unable to reach the upstream of the falls and stopped there.

If you go further, you will come across the Hannya Rock, which resembles the face of a demon. The strange rocks stretch out over tens of meters, and the majesty of the rocks will keep your eyes glued to them. The hole that looks like a mouth is impressive. Please come and experience the majesty of nature for yourself.

38. Okawa Museum of Art

The Okawa Art Museum is located on the side of Mt. Suidoyama with a great view. You can see the cityscape of Gunma from every exhibition room, and the unique design makes it feel like you're walking through a maze as you go down the stairs.

The museum displays the collection of Japanese and foreign artists that Eiji Okawa, who was also a businessman, has collected for over 40 years. Japanese artists include Matsumoto Shunsuke and Noda Hideo, and the museum focuses on modern Western paintings. Foreign artists include Picasso, Miro, Rouault, and other Western artists.

Each exhibition room is equipped with sofas, so you can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere as if you were looking at paintings at home. This is a museum where you can casually encounter masterpieces, so why not visit it many times?

In addition to the masterpieces, the tea room on the second floor is also recommended. They offer coffee, tea, cakes, sandwiches, and more, and you can enjoy them while looking out at the lush garden.

39. Watarase Valley Railway

The Watarase Valley Railway has two types of trolley trains. It travels 44km from Kiryu Station in Gunma to Mato Station in Tochigi in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

A trip on a retro train along the Watarase River is a very atmospheric experience. The open, windowless interior of the train is a great way to enjoy the fresh breeze. The best part of the trip is being able to see different scenery each season: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves in autumn.

In the 5,000m-long Kusaki Tunnel, the illuminations on the ceiling of the Watarase Valley Trolley Train create a romantic atmosphere. It's a great way to enjoy the tunnel even when you can't see the view.

We also recommend Godo Station, which has a train restaurant. Inside the station, two train cars that were used on the Tobu Railway Nikko Line have been turned into restaurants, where you can eat Gunma's Maitake rice, set meals, and mushroom curry.

40. Kiryu Meijikan

Kiryu Meijikan is a symmetrical white Western-style building built in the Meiji era that looks like something out of a storybook. It is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan and is a Western-style building built by Japanese carpenters.

It was originally built as a sanitation center for Gunma Prefecture, and after repairs and construction, it was opened to the public as Kiryu Meijikan in 1986. Inside the building, pianos, organs, and antique items from the Meiji era are on display, giving it a great atmosphere. It also takes photos for events such as Shichi-Go-San and Coming of Age Day, so it is recommended to use it for other purposes besides sightseeing.

There is also a cafe on the first floor where you can enjoy coffee, cakes, fritters, and other light meals. Music plays from a hand-cranked gramophone inside the building, and you can immerse yourself in the tasteful sounds that are different from modern digital audio.

Name: Kiryu Meijikan
Address: 2-414-6 Aioicho, Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture
Official and related site URL: http://www.city.kiryu.lg.jp/shisetsu/bunka/meijikan/1005113.html

41. Kiryu Tenmangu Shrine

Kiryu Tenmangu Shrine is a tourist destination where the Antique Market, famous as one of the three largest antique markets in the Kanto region, is held. It is held on the first Saturday of every month, and about 80 stores line the streets. There is a wide selection of items, including old books, household items, cameras, and ceramics. It's fun just to look around.

Kiryu Tenmangu Shrine, built in 1789, is also an important cultural property of Gunma Prefecture. There are many high schools in the surrounding area, and many people visit during exam season. It is popular for its benefits in academic success, so we recommend the amulets.

In addition, many of the architectural decorations of the shrine are themed around dragons, and they are believed to be the guardian deity of good fortune. You can visit the shrine from Tokyo on a day trip, so be sure to visit.

Name: Kiryu Tenmangu Shrine
Address: 1-3-4 Tenjincho, Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture
Official and related site URL: http://www.kiryutenjin.jp/

42. Caribbean Beach

Caribbean Beach has an appealing Caribbean resort atmosphere. It is one of the largest indoor heated pools in the Kanto region and is a popular tourist spot in Gunma.

There are eight pools in total, including a wave pool, lazy river, and children's pool, so both small children and adults can enjoy it. There are also plenty of exhilarating facilities, such as the Rodeo Mountain slide, which is only available to elementary school students, and a water slide that can be used by people over 120 cm tall. There are also jacuzzis and saunas, so you can relax and play while you relax.

Also, from around 7:00 p.m., there is a twilight performance that creates a great atmosphere. After 7:30 p.m., big waves form in the wave pool and you can bodyboard. This is a recommended tourist spot for those who want to enjoy the feeling of perpetual summer in Gunma all year round.

43. Morinji Temple

Morinji Temple is a tourist spot in Gunma known as the temple of the Bunbuku Chagama. Bunbuku Chagama is a Japanese folk tale about a tanuki (raccoon dog) that transforms into a tea kettle.

There are tanuki statues all over the temple, with various expressions, creating a fun atmosphere. There are over 800 statues, so it's fun to search for your favorite one.

In spring, weeping cherry blossoms and Yoshino cherry blossoms bloom, making it a great place for sightseeing. The tanuki are dressed up for each season, so be sure to take some photos.

44. Japan Snake Center

Japan Snake Center is one of the best snake-themed facilities in Japan and is a must-see for snake lovers. Originally a facility in Gunma for the research and breeding of venomous snakes, it exhibits a large number of vipers, venomous snakes from around the world, and large snakes.

Various tourist events are also held, and you can see snakes up close, such as places where you can touch them, experiments to extract venom from Habu snakes, and snake feeding time.

You can also take commemorative photos with the large snakes, so it's recommended. The types of snakes change depending on the day, but the thick part of the python is about 10 cm in diameter, and it feels heavy when wrapped around your neck, and the cool feeling is likely to become addictive.

If you are a challenger, why not try eating a snake? At the restaurant in the park, there are dishes that are difficult to tell from their appearance, such as grilled viper and deep-fried viper. If you are curious about what it tastes like, please give it a try.

45. Ikushina Shrine

Ikushina Shrine is a tourist spot known for its bronze statue of Nitta Yoshisada, a military commander who played an active role from the Kamakura period to the Nanboku-cho period. In 2010, the statue was stolen by an unknown person, which caused a big stir, but in 2012, the people of Gunma rebuilt the statue. You can also see the dignified figure of Nitta Yoshisada.

Every year on May 8th, the "Kaburaya Festival" is held, where local elementary school students dressed in hakama shoot arrows from Gunma towards Kamakura. This is based on the historical story of how Nitta Yoshisada shot an arrow in the direction of Kamakura to divine good or bad luck when attacking the Kamakura Shogunate. The ceremony of the dignified young warriors is a must-see for tourists.

46. Numata Castle Ruins

Numata is a tourist destination that has been gaining attention through the NHK historical drama series "Sanada Maru" and "Buratamori." It is a town with historical ties to the Edo period, when the Sanada and Hojo clans fought over territory. It is said that a large five-story castle tower was once built on Numata Castle, which became the Sanada clan's castle.

The castle ruins, now beloved by locals as Numata Park, still have the castle tower base from that time, and a restored bell tower has been built in one corner. The bell tower, which changes with the seasons, is a great photo spot! Gunma has been reborn as a tourist destination where you can enjoy the seasons.

47. Kanayama Castle Ruins

A castle from the Warring States period known as Ota Kanayama Castle or Nitta Kanayama Castle. There are no buildings, but as it was built by a powerful feudal lord as a frontline base, the remains of stone walls remain, which are rare in the Kanto region. In recent years, it has become a popular hidden tourist spot for its night view, as it is located at an altitude of 235m above sea level! If the weather is good, you can sometimes see not only Gunma Prefecture but also central Tokyo and the Skytree.

After visiting the Kanayama Castle ruins, please also stop by the Kanayama Regional Exchange Center. In addition to the exhibits inside the building, the facility designed by architect Kengo Kuma is also a tourist attraction. The exterior walls are modeled after the stone walls of Kanayama Castle, giving it a stylish and modern appearance.

48. Takayamasha Shrine Ruins

Takayamasha Shrine Site was Gunma's first registered World Heritage Site along with Tomioka Silk Mill. It is a nationally designated historic site built by Takayama Chogoro, who aimed to improve sericulture methods. Research to improve sericulture methods and training of sericulture staff were carried out here.

Preserved within the building is the room where Takayama Chogoro lived and the open-air silkworm room where silkworms were raised. You can tour and see these rooms for free at Tthe akayamasha Shrine Site. Guide staff will accompany you and provide a thorough and easy-to-understand explanation.

The tour lasts a maximum of 60 minutes. It is open at any time except the New Year holidays, so why not stop by after visiting Tomioka Silk Mill?

49. Mt. Tanigawa

Tanigawadake is a famous mountain that stands on the border between Gunma and Niigata prefectures. In winter, the humid winds from the Sea of Japan hit the mountain, causing a lot of snow, which has led to the creation of many ski resorts at the base of the mountain.

It is also a mountain where you can enjoy leisure activities in every season and is crowded with tourists throughout the year. Tenjindai, the largest ski resort on Tanigawadake, is dotted near the summit. Those who enjoy mountain climbing and skiing can take the ropeway that departs from the base of the mountain to Tenjindai. The ropeway ride takes 10 minutes, but it is steep, so you climb all at once. Therefore, in the autumn season, tourists are welcomed by the magnificent gradation of the leaves changing from green to red.

If you have time, try visiting the tourist spot "Ichinokurazawa". It is located further from the ropeway station at the base. Ichinokurazawa is the final site of one of the three major rock formations in Japan and is a recommended tourist spot that is famous in Gunma. Why not enjoy the great nature of Tanigawa with the perpetual snow that never melts all year round behind you?

50. Mount Akagi

Mount Akagi is about a two-hour drive from Tokyo. It is a Gunma tourist spot that is full of things to do and can be visited on a day trip. Located in the center of Gunma Prefecture, it is a series of peaks with an altitude of about 1,800m. Near the summit, there is Lake Onuma, which was formed by volcanic activity, and it is famous as a tourist spot that can be enjoyed regardless of the season. The best time to see azaleas is in mid-June, and you can enjoy fireworks in the summer and autumn leaves in the fall.

There are also hot springs and inns in the surrounding area, so it is also recommended for weekend outings. There is also an auto camping site, so you can enjoy outdoor sightseeing with your children. Enjoy a cool summer in Gunma with barbecues, fishing, water play, and more.

◎Summary

Gunma Prefecture has more tourist attractions than you might expect, with mountains, lakes, hot springs, and cultural heritage sites. Although Gunma is still relatively unknown, there are many tourist spots that families and couples can enjoy. You can enjoy it regardless of the season!

In addition to the tourist spots introduced this time, there are still many hidden tourist spots in Gunma, which is not well known. Finally, be sure to buy a doll or cookies of Gunma's mascot, "Gunma-chan," as a souvenir!

50 recommended sightseeing spots in Gunma! You can’t go wrong here!