5 recommended sightseeing spots in Isesaki City, Gunma!

Have you ever heard of Jōmō Karuta? It’s a local karuta card game featuring Gunma’s specialties, history, and famous sightseeing spots as reading cards. Most Gunma residents participate in karuta competitions during their elementary school years, so many still remember the cards even as adults.

The place we are introducing this time, Isesaki City, is featured in Jōmō Karuta under the "Me" card. Gunma Prefecture has long been known for sericulture, and Isesaki City thrived in the silk industry. The kasuri fabric produced in Isesaki is called "Isesaki Kasuri," which was so popular that it was shipped to Edo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

In Jōmō Karuta, Isesaki City is fondly described as "Meisen fabric-producing Isesaki City." Now, let’s take a look at some of Isesaki’s must-visit tourist spots and some local B-grade gourmet dishes that only the locals know about!

1. Kezoji Park Amusement Park

One of the symbols of Isesaki City is the giant Ferris wheel at Kezōji Park Amusement Park. Named "Himawari" (Sunflower), this large Ferris wheel was installed in 1985 and, at the time, was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. It is still in operation today, delighting many visitors. On clear days, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Kanto Plain, and at night, you can admire the beautiful nightscape of Isesaki.

Kezōji Park Amusement Park is also one of Isesaki’s best cherry blossom viewing spots. During cherry blossom season, many tourists visit from outside the city and even from other prefectures. At night, food stalls open, and the cherry blossoms are beautifully illuminated, creating a lively atmosphere that continues into the evening.

In the parking lot, you’ll see many cars with license plates from outside Gunma. This amusement park is a place where people of all ages can have fun, making it a great destination for families and groups. If you visit Isesaki, be sure to stop by this must-see attraction!

2. Tajima Yahei Former House

June 2014 was an exciting time for Gunma Prefecture. That was when Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites were registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site! As seen in the existence of the local Jōmō Karuta game, Gunma residents have a deep love for their hometown, and at the time, the entire prefecture was in a celebratory mood.

However, what many people don’t realize is that it wasn’t just Tomioka Silk Mill that was registered as a World Heritage Site—the related silk industry heritage sites were included as well.

One of these sites is the Former Tajima Yahei Residence in Isesaki. This residence is significant as it played a key role in the development of the modern sericulture method known as Seiryō-iku and is considered the foundation of sericulture farm architecture. Due to its historical importance, it has been designated a National Historic Site.

Since it is a private residence, visitors cannot enter the interior. However, you can explore the mulberry field and visit the information center, where historical materials are exhibited free of charge. If you are a history enthusiast or want to deepen your understanding of Gunma’s silk industry, this is a great place to visit.

3. Akabori Small Chrysanthemum Village

Although it is not widely known, Isesaki City is home to many flower and plant-themed tourist spots. One of these is Akabori Small Chrysanthemum Village in Akabori. As the name suggests, this unique site features an entire hillside covered exclusively with small chrysanthemums, making it a rare and remarkable attraction in Japan.

The peak bloom season is from mid to late October, during which visitors can enjoy colorful chrysanthemums in shades of yellow, red, purple, and white. Best of all, admission and parking are free, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.

Inside the park, visitors can also purchase chrysanthemums, and the prices are significantly lower compared to other chrysanthemum sales events. While it remains a hidden gem unknown to many people outside Isesaki, its breathtaking scenery is definitely worth seeing at least once!

4. Tenmaku Castle Ruins and Akabori Lotus Garden

Located very close to Akabori Small Chrysanthemum Village, Tenbaku Castle Ruins & Akabori Lotus Garden is another famous flower-related sightseeing spot in Isesaki. It remains a hidden gem, cherished by the locals. The area is transformed into a magical landscape with vast spreads of purple, pink, and white Chinese lotuses.

These lotuses bloom from early July to mid-August, making it an ideal summer destination for flower enthusiasts. In mid-July, the Akabori Lotus Festival is held, drawing many visitors. Why not make Tenbaku Castle Ruins & Akabori Lotus Garden your next summer adventure?

5. Koizumi Inari Shrine

Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its countless torii gates, but did you know that Isesaki also has a shrine known for its impressive torii gates? That shrine is Koizumi Inari Shrine. While temples and shrines are often associated with a quiet and serene atmosphere, visitors to Koizumi Inari Shrine are often surprised by its striking torii gates that stand boldly in an open area surrounded by fields.

The grand torii gate on the western side of the shrine is said to be the largest in Gunma Prefecture, towering at an impressive 22 meters. Additionally, the shrine features a 100-meter-long path lined with three rows of torii gates, making for a truly stunning sight.

In October, the Cosmos Festival is held, during which visitors can witness a breathtaking view of the grand torii gate surrounded by a carpet of 20 million cosmos flowers. While many shrines are famous for their torii gates, Koizumi Inari Shrine offers a unique experience. If you’re looking for something a little different, why not pay a visit?

6. Isesaki's B-class gourmet

Aside from sightseeing, Isesaki has many other exciting attractions. One of them is its unique B-grade gourmet cuisine. Let’s explore some of the delicious and affordable local specialties that make Isesaki a hidden culinary treasure!

◆ Jinja Croquette

When it comes to Isesaki’s B-grade gourmet dishes, the first name that often comes up is Jinja Croquette, a long-time favorite among locals. Originally sold more than 70 years ago near Isesaki Shrine under the simple name "Croquette," it gradually became known as Jinja Croquette (Shrine Croquette) after children began calling it that. Today, the name has become firmly established.

Despite being called a croquette, it differs from the typical variety. The ingredients consist only of flour, potatoes, and aonori (green seaweed). Some stores also add okara (soy pulp). It is served with a special sweet and savory sauce that enhances its nostalgic flavor.

Jinja Croquette was even featured on the popular TV program Himitsu no Kenmin SHOW, where it received high praise from guests from other prefectures. It is sold at a dedicated store in front of Isesaki Municipal Hospital and can also be found in the prepared food sections of supermarkets throughout the city. If you visit Isesaki, be sure to give it a try!

◆ Isesaki Monja

Almost everyone in Isesaki has tried Isesaki Monja at least once. What makes it different from regular monjayaki? The key distinction is the existence of a sweet variation called Ama (short for "amami," meaning sweetness). Surprisingly, the secret ingredient used to create this sweetness is ichigo syrup—the same strawberry syrup used for shaved ice! As a result, the uncooked batter has a slightly reddish hue, which makes it unique.

This sweet-style monja, known as Ama, is said to have originated in candy shops and has become an addictive treat not just for children but also for many adults. Although it contains strawberry syrup, the carefully balanced mixture ensures that the strawberry flavor is subtle, allowing the sweetness to stand out without overpowering the dish.

Isesaki Monja has been featured in the media multiple times, so more people outside of Gunma are becoming aware of it. In addition to Ama, there are other variations such as Ooama (extra sweet) and Kara (with curry powder), offering a wide range of flavors. While exploring Isesaki, why not indulge in this beloved local soul food?

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced five recommended tourist spots in Isesaki along with some of its famous B-grade gourmet dishes. What did you think? Did any places or foods pique your interest?

Gunma is often associated with onsen (hot springs) and skiing, so people rarely visit Isesaki as their sole destination. However, this city is filled with hidden charms that cannot be fully captured in a single article. If this guide has sparked your interest, we would be delighted if more people choose to visit Isesaki and discover its many attractions firsthand.

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5 recommended sightseeing spots in Isesaki City, Gunma!