Enjoy Gunma Tourism to the Fullest! A Journey Through Classic and Deep Spots
Gunma Prefecture is a tourist destination packed with diverse attractions, from some of Japan’s most famous hot springs and breathtaking natural scenery to exotic theme parks. This guide introduces must-visit classic spots for first-time visitors, alongside deep historical backgrounds and local ways to enjoy them that only insiders know.
Kusatsu Onsen Yubatake (Hot Water Field)
📍 Address: Kusatsu, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture 377-1711, Japan
Kusatsu Onsen boasts Japan’s highest natural hot spring water flow, exceeding 30,000 liters per minute. Its overwhelming volume and highly acidic water quality are renowned, with a saying that ‘there’s no illness it cannot cure, except for lovesickness.’ The ‘Yubatake’ (hot water field), located in the heart of the hot spring town, constantly steams, emanating the scent of sulfur, and serves as Kusatsu’s iconic symbol.
In fact, the rotary-shaped stone fences and walkways around the current Yubatake were developed in 1975 (Showa 50) under the supervision and design of artist Taro Okamoto. Artistic essence is beautifully integrated into the landscape of this historic hot spring.
If you visit, you’ll surely be captivated by the dynamic flow of the hot spring water as it cascades from the upper stream to the ‘Yudaki’ (hot water waterfall) downstream. New restaurants and souvenir shops are continuously opening in the surrounding area, creating a vibrant atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back. At night, the scene transforms with fantastic illumination, enveloping the area in a romantic ambiance completely different from the daytime. It’s especially recommended during the cold winter months when the steam rises even more densely, adding to its special allure.
Ikaho Onsen Stone Steps Street
📍 Address: Ikaho, Ikaho-machi, Shibukawa, Gunma Prefecture 377-0102, Japan
Ikaho Onsen, a renowned hot spring in Gunma alongside Kusatsu, is synonymous with its ‘Stone Steps Street,’ comprising 365 steps. It’s said that these steps were originally developed during the Sengoku period by Masayuki Sanada (father of Yukimura Sanada), who was ordered by Katsuyori Takeda to create a hot spring retreat for soldiers wounded in the Battle of Nagashino. Japan’s first hot spring urban planning was executed here, involving the creation of terraced slopes and the distribution of hot spring water to each inn via a central conduit.
Along both sides of the stone steps are Showa-era retro game stalls like target shooting and ring toss, as well as shops selling famous ‘Yunohana Manju’ (hot spring flower buns) and ‘tama konnyaku’ (ball-shaped konjac). The joy of the experience lies in trying these local delicacies as you ascend. At the 94th step, there’s the municipal ‘Ishidan no Yu’ bath, and at the 180th step, the free-to-use ‘Tatsu no Yu’ footbath, allowing you to explore at your own pace while taking breaks.
If you wish to avoid crowds and take photos at a leisurely pace, an early morning visit is a must. You can have the nostalgic scenery all to yourself in the quiet solitude, and securing parking below the stone steps becomes easier. At the top of the 365 steps stands Ikaho Shrine, and it’s a popular custom to offer prayers with the wish for ‘365 days of happiness.’
Oku-Shima Lake
📍 Address: Shima, Nakanojo, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture 377-0601, Japan
Located further beyond Shima Onsen, ‘Oku-Shima Lake,’ formed by the Shimagawa Dam, is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful blue surface. This mysterious blue color is called ‘Shima Blue’ and transforms its hue from cobalt blue to emerald green depending on the season, time of day, and light conditions. This unique coloration is attributed to sunlight hitting fine particles called ‘allophane’ in the hot spring-rich water, causing Rayleigh scattering of blue light.
The best time to witness its most striking blueness is between 10 AM and 2 PM on a clear day. Beyond the fresh green season when spring meltwater flows in, autumn (typically around mid-November) sees the lakeside maples and other trees turn vibrant crimson, creating a stunning spectacle with the dramatic contrast against the Shima Blue.
The lakeside can be explored by car or bicycle, and activities like canoeing and SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) are also popular. The views from the lake surface offer an immersive experience, as if stepping into a painting. It’s the perfect healing spot for travelers seeking to escape urban hustle and bustle and refresh their souls with the colors of nature.
Lockheart Castle
📍 Address: 5583-1 Nakayama, Takayama, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture 377-0702, Japan
‘Lockheart Castle,’ a genuine ancient British castle that suddenly appears in the mountains of Gunma, is a theme park moved to Japan through the passionate efforts of the late actor Masahiko Tsugawa and a Gunma stone company. The approximately 4,000 disassembled stone blocks were transported via the Trans-Siberian Railway and meticulously reassembled over several years in Gunma.
Stepping onto the grounds, you are completely transported to the world of medieval Europe. It’s also very famous as a filming location (a ‘sacred place’) for movies, dramas, and anime, boasting overwhelming architectural beauty that is highly Instagrammable from any angle.
Particularly popular is the ‘Princess Dress Experience,’ where you can choose your favorite outfit from a wide selection. You can enjoy taking photos inside the castle and in the gardens, feeling like a princess – it’s sure to be a hit for couples and girls’ trips. Another great feature is that you can explore both inside and outside the castle with your pet (dog) on a leash. Authentic cafes and restaurants are also on-site, allowing you to spend an elegant holiday in a space filled with an extraordinary atmosphere.
Local Tips to Further Enjoy Gunma Tourism
As Gunma Prefecture’s hot springs and tourist spots are scattered in mountainous areas, a rental car or other vehicle is overwhelmingly convenient for transportation. However, when visiting Kusatsu, Shima, or Ikaho during winter (around December to March), studless tires are essential.
Furthermore, many hot spring areas have ‘kyodo yokujo’ (public baths) that locals use daily. Travelers can often enjoy these baths for a few hundred yen (or sometimes for free) if they observe proper etiquette. So, grabbing a towel and exploring the deep, back-alley hot springs can offer a unique and profound Gunma experience.
