Perfect for winter sightseeing in Gunma! 4 must-visit spots including factory tours

Gunma Prefecture is a popular travel destination visited by many people from the Kanto region and beyond. However, in winter, heavy snowfall can make outdoor sightseeing difficult on certain days. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up exploring Gunma in the cold season. By researching indoor attractions in advance, you can fully enjoy your Gunma trip even in winter.

How about visiting Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Takasaki Factory, famous for Pocari Sweat, or taking a tour of Gateau Festa Harada, known for its delicious rusks? The Subaru Visitor Center is a dream spot for car enthusiasts. For food lovers, the original Tamaruya, famous for Mizusawa Udon, is a must-try. Let’s set out for Gunma and explore these places that can be enjoyed even in winter!

1. “Otsuka Pharmaceutical Takasaki Factory Tour,” famous for Pocari Sweat

Why not visit the Otsuka Pharmaceutical factory, known for Pocari Sweat?

At the Takasaki Factory of Otsuka Pharmaceutical, you can observe the production line of Pocari Sweat. It’s fascinating to see how that famous drink is made. Visitors can also learn about Otsuka Pharmaceutical and explore a mini museum. You’ll even receive a commemorative gift to remember your visit.

Reservations can be made by phone up to two months in advance. Be sure to book early and enjoy your tour of the Otsuka Pharmaceutical Takasaki Factory.

2. “Gateau Festa Harada,” recommended for sweets lovers

Famous for its rusks, “Gateau Festa Harada” has its production factory in Takasaki City, Gunma. At the main factory “Château du Espoir (House of Hope),” you can freely explore the factory gallery without a reservation.

If you have time, it’s definitely worth stopping by. The state-of-the-art production line for Gateau Rusk is a must-see for fans. During winter, when sightseeing options can be limited, indoor attractions like this let you enjoy your trip without worrying about the weather.

3. Mizusawa Udon, one of Japan’s three great udon: “Original Tamaruya”

A must-visit gourmet stop is “Mizusawa Udon Original Tamaruya.” Mizusawa Udon is a smooth, hand-pulled noodle with a firm, chewy texture — one of Japan’s three great udon varieties and a specialty of Gunma. Tamaruya is a famous restaurant known as the originator of Mizusawa Udon, founded in the 10th year of the Tenshō era (1582).

Here, you can enjoy a variety of dishes featuring their signature broth. The recommended choice is the “Hotei-sama Fukuzenmen,” a set with chilled Mizusawa udon, tempura, and small side dishes. In the cold winter, a hot “Kake Udon” paired with seasonal dishes and tempura in a “Hakozen” set is also delightful.

4. “Subaru Visitor Center,” home to the T-1 Jet Trainer

The Subaru Visitor Center is a corporate museum opened in July 2003 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of SUBARU (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries). It’s a sightseeing spot where you can enjoy a collection of classic cars from the good old days.

After watching an introductory video, you’ll join a guided tour through the exhibition hall and production factory. The hall showcases Subaru’s historic cars and engines, as well as actual Rabbit scooters. There’s also a gallery where you can learn about safety technologies. Outdoors, you’ll find a real Japan Air Self-Defense Force T-1 “Hatsutaka” jet trainer on display.

The Subaru Visitor Center is a must-see spot for car lovers and a place children will also enjoy. Reservations can be made by phone starting on the first business day two months in advance. However, tours are only available on designated “SUBARU Friendly Days,” so be sure to check the official website before planning your visit.

◎ Summary

This article introduced sightseeing spots in Gunma that can be enjoyed in winter. For cold-season travel, indoor attractions such as factory tours and museums are highly recommended. When planning your Gunma trip, consider these four perfect winter destinations.

Gunma also boasts many wonderful hot springs. After a day of factory tours and sightseeing, soaking in a relaxing onsen will surely make your Gunma journey unforgettable.

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Perfect for winter sightseeing in Gunma! 4 must-visit spots including factory tours