Let’s conquer the beautiful mountains! Introducing the best driving spots in Gunma Prefecture!

This time, we’re introducing recommended driving spots in Gunma Prefecture. We’ve selected spots where you can enjoy a scenic drive while taking in views of the mountains of Gunma. Even without ocean views, driving in Gunma is fun across many seasons—whether it's the fresh greenery of spring or the colorful leaves of autumn! Major cities in Gunma like Takasaki, Maebashi, and Shibukawa have car rental shops, so even if you don’t own a car, you can easily go for a drive. Be sure to use this guide as a reference!

1. Jōmō Sanzan Panorama Highway

The most recommended driving route in Gunma Prefecture is the “Jōmō Sanzan Panorama Highway.” This is because it connects the three famous mountains collectively known as "Jōmō Sanzan": Mount Akagi, Mount Myōgi, and Mount Haruna.

To enjoy this driving course to the fullest, start from Shimonita and take Prefectural Route 194 to Mount Myōgi. At “Myōgi Panorama Park” and the nearby roadside station, you can admire the view of Mount Myōgi from below. The closer you get to the jagged, needle-like rock formations, the more impressive they become!

After being awed by the dramatic views of Mount Myōgi, head to Mount Haruna via Prefectural Route 33. You'll drive past idyllic rural scenery, gradually climbing steeper slopes and winding roads. As you proceed along the valley and through the mountains, the view suddenly opens up—revealing Lake Haruna. This caldera lake is associated with Mount Haruna, and across the road stands Haruna Fuji, a peak shaped like Mount Fuji. Continuing along Route 33 brings you to the “Takane Observatory,” a popular stop on the Panorama Highway. From here, a sweeping panorama unfolds, including the town of Ikaho spread below. The road then continues toward the wide base of Mount Akagi.

Mount Akagi features several sightseeing spots, including the “Miharashi-yama Observatory” and the “Akagi Shirakaba Ranch.” You might want to take a quick detour and explore. From Mount Akagi, you can either return via the same road or take Routes 16 and 101 into Maebashi City.
Gunma Prefecture is also known for its many hot springs, so it's a great idea to enjoy a relaxing soak during your drive. Visiting all three of the Jōmō Sanzan peaks in one trip is quite a luxurious experience. However, please note that in winter, the road may be icy—so drive with caution during the colder months.

2. Takasaki Byakue Daikannon Route

The station in Gunma Prefecture where the Shinkansen stops is Takasaki Station. The closest recommended driving course from Takasaki Station is the Takasaki Byakue Daikannon Route. This route goes through the city of Takasaki and leads to the Byakue Daikannon, taking about 20 minutes via Prefectural Road 71. This road is also known as the Nishi-Joshu Yamabiko Highway and is lined with the peaceful scenery of Takasaki’s streets. As you approach Kannon Mountain, the road becomes mountainous. Near the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Takasaki cityscape and, on clear days, even Mount Yatsugatake in the distance.

Near the Takasaki Byakue Daikannon, there is a large free parking area, along with souvenir shops and snack stalls where visitors can take a break. If you explore a bit further, you'll find a large suspension bridge called "Hibiki Bridge" and a botanical garden nestled in nature—making it a great place to enjoy an entire day.

There are two important points to note when visiting. First, from autumn to winter, since the area is in the mountains, be sure to dress warmly. Second, the roads around the Takasaki Byakue Daikannon area have many curves and slopes, so avoid speeding.

Even if you don’t own a car, you can easily visit the area by renting one from Takasaki Station. It’s definitely worth a visit.

3. Shima Onsen Drive Course

When it comes to famous hot spring resorts in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen and Ikaho Onsen are known nationwide. However, Shima Onsen is also a beloved destination with many fans. To get to Shima Onsen, exit at the Shibukawa-Ikaho IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway and take National Routes 17 and 353. It takes about an hour from the Shibukawa-Ikaho IC. The scenery in Shibukawa City is rural, but as you approach Nakanojo, the landscape gradually begins to change.

While driving through Nakanojo on Route 353, you may suddenly hear a familiar melody—it's "Always With Me" from Spirited Away. This is thanks to the "Gunma Melody Line," a special road that uses grooves to play music. There are 10 such melody lines throughout Gunma Prefecture, and tourists and drivers often turn off their car stereos to enjoy the music matched to the surrounding scenery. The reason this melody plays in Nakanojo is because Shima Onsen is said to be the model for the bathhouse "Aburaya" featured in Spirited Away. It’s a lovely way to enjoy not just the views but also the sounds while driving.

As you drive alongside the Shima River, which runs parallel to the road, you’ll find resting spots where you can stop and admire the scenery—mountains as far as the eye can see, with views of Takasaki and Shibukawa in the distance. The air is also refreshingly crisp, thanks to the elevation.

As you approach Shima Onsen, the scenery shifts to rows of traditional inns, souvenir shops, and restaurants. If you continue further past Shima Onsen, you can even reach Lake Nozori. For those using rental cars, it’s convenient to rent near Takasaki Station. Be cautious during winter months, as this area receives heavy snowfall and driving conditions can be hazardous.

◎ Summary

We’ve just introduced some of the best recommended driving spots in Gunma Prefecture—how did you like them? One of Gunma’s great features is that most of the spots are not far from the central hub, Takasaki Station. Even the farthest ones are only about 1 hour and 30 minutes away, making them suitable for a day trip.

For instance, Lake Haruna, located at the base of Mount Haruna along the Jōmō Sanzan Panorama Highway, is beautifully illuminated in winter. The Takasaki Byakue Daikannon is easily accessible from within the city. The Shima Onsen route is perfect even for an overnight stay, turning your visit into a mini getaway.

We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Gunma Prefecture!

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Let’s conquer the beautiful mountains! Introducing the best driving spots in Gunma Prefecture!