5 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Oizumi Town, Gunma Prefecture

Oizumi Town in Gunma Prefecture, known as the “Brazil of Gunma,” is part of Oizumi District. Following the Japanese government's relaxation of regulations to secure labor by accepting foreign workers, many Nikkei Brazilians have come to Japan and formed vibrant communities throughout the country. Oizumi Town is one such community.

For those living in the metropolitan area who long to experience Brazil but lack the time or funds to travel abroad, a visit to Oizumi Town is a fantastic alternative. As soon as you get off the Tobu Koizumi Line at Nishi-Koizumi Station, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported out of Japan and into Brazil. Enjoy a taste of “Brazil for just a few thousand yen” on your weekend getaway. Here are five recommended tourist attractions in Oizumi Town.

1. Jonouchi Park

When it comes to famous cherry blossom spots in Oizumi, Jonouchi Park is the place to be. With around 300 cherry trees planted throughout the park, it continues to captivate countless visitors from both within and outside the prefecture every year. The nighttime illumination is simply a must-see.

Developed on part of the main and secondary baileys of Koizumi Castle, originally built in 1489, the park features expansive grounds with playgrounds, open spaces, and a small zoo. The abundant natural surroundings allow you to watch ducks and turtles diligently swimming in the moat.

It’s an ideal spot to leisurely explore on a day off while soaking in the historical atmosphere along the “Great Bridge” that leads to the castle ruins.

2. Brazil Town

Brazil Town is a unique tourist area in Oizumi that emerged as a result of the town’s active recruitment of Nikkei Brazilian workers in recent years. The Brazilian community in Oizumi has formed its own distinct enclave.

After disembarking at Nishi-Koizumi Station on the Tobu Koizumi Line, you’ll be greeted by signs in Portuguese and South American-style buildings, making you feel as though you’re in Brazil rather than Japan. Here, you can shop for Brazilian groceries and miscellaneous goods and enjoy Brazilian cuisine at one of the many restaurants. For those who want to sample a slice of South America or get a feel for its atmosphere before an actual trip, Brazil Town is a must-visit.

The cheerful Brazilians are friendly and accommodating, so you can feel at ease even if you don't speak English or Portuguese.

♦ Restaurant Brasil

If you visit Brazil Town, be sure to have lunch at Restaurant Brasil, where you can enjoy authentic Brazilian cuisine at reasonable prices. The colorful dishes and Brazilian décor enhance the atmosphere, allowing you to experience Brazilian gourmet culture right here in Japan.

♦ Brazilian Plaza

If you’re unsure where to go next after disembarking at Nishi-Koizumi Station, stop by Brazilian Plaza. The first floor hosts various general merchandise stores and travel agencies, while the second floor features a food court where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

3. Oizumi Town Cultural Village (Bunka Mura)

Oizumi Town Cultural Village is the center of local events. It hosts concerts by professional singers, orchestras, performances by local schools, and cultural classes. One of the town’s largest events, the Oizumi Town Carnival, was held here in 2016. Event schedules are regularly updated on the official website.

The cultural village also houses an ethnographic museum and exhibition halls, making it a must-visit for those who want to learn about Oizumi Town. In spring, the venue becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot as well.

◆ Oizumi Town Carnival

Oizumi Town, known as "Japan's Brazil," also hosts its own carnival. During the carnival, you can witness dazzling performances by professional carnival dance units.

In 2016, the "Oizumi Town Carnival" held at Oizumi Town Cultural Village coincided with an industrial festival. In addition to the dance performances, you could savor Brazilian cuisine at food stalls, attracting many local residents and tourists.

Opportunities to experience an authentic Brazilian carnival are quite rare—so make sure to indulge in the real carnival spirit right here in Oizumi Town!

4. Goseisaku Park

Located on the eastern side of Oizumi Town, Goseisaku Park features a large pond at its center and is ideal for leisurely strolls. With a pavilion for resting, a lawn area, a playground, and a softball field, it is a beloved spot for local residents on weekends.

The park’s main attraction is the unique "Yukin Sakura" (Right-kin Cherry Blossoms) that bloom in mid-April. These pale yellow-brown cherry blossoms have a distinctive charm compared to the usual pink blossoms. If you’re looking for a different cherry blossom experience, Goseisaku Park is the place to go.

5. Izumi Greenway

Izumi Greenway is a lush, approximately 2.8-kilometer long pathway that runs north-south through the center of Oizumi Town and has become a symbol of the town. Starting from Nishi-Koizumi Station, a walk along the greenway reveals sights such as Brazil Town, Jonouchi Park, and Izumi Sogo Park. Along the way, you’ll encounter various monuments, flower beds, playgrounds, and exercise equipment. The pathway is well-maintained with both pedestrian and bicycle lanes, making it a popular route for walkers.

Almost every month, an event called “Gourmet Yokocho” is held along the greenway at “Hana no Hiroba,” where you can enjoy cuisine from various countries. This is a must-visit if you’re in Oizumi Town.

♦ Izumi Sogo Park

Izumi Sogo Park is Oizumi Town’s largest and only comprehensive park. Covering 13.1 hectares, it features sports facilities such as a gymnasium, baseball field, soccer field, and gateball court, as well as expansive lawns and play areas designed amidst the abundant natural surroundings. Since Izumi Sogo Park is adjacent to Izumi Greenway to the north, you can enjoy a continuous walking route spanning up to 4 kilometers.

◎Summary

We’ve showcased the charms of Oizumi Town, from its Brazilian community and lively events to its museums, parks, and famed cherry blossom spots. However, this article can only scratch the surface of what makes Oizumi Town so unique. For those living in the metropolitan area, Oizumi is just a short trip away—so make sure to experience what “Brazil in Japan” really feels like. After getting off at Nishi-Koizumi Station on the Tobu Line, start by exploring Brazil Town, then stroll along Izumi Greenway to discover more of Oizumi’s attractions.

With beautiful cherry blossoms at Jonouchi Park, the unique Yukin Sakura at Goseisaku Park, and the monthly “Gourmet Yokocho” event, Oizumi Town offers delightful experiences year-round. If you have some free time on a weekend, head out for an Oizumi sightseeing adventure without hesitation!

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5 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Oizumi Town, Gunma Prefecture