Best Places to Visit in Gunma Prefecture | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Gunma Prefecture Travel Guide
Quick overview of Gunma Prefecture with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Gunma Prefecture Travel Videos
- Plan Gunma Prefecture Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Gunma Prefecture
- Hotels Map Of Gunma Prefecture
- Tours And Activities In Gunma Prefecture
- Food And Drinks To Try In Gunma Prefecture
- Best Time To Visit Gunma Prefecture
- Flight Calendar For Gunma Prefecture
- Transportation To Gunma Prefecture
Welcome to Gunma Prefecture, Japan! Located in the Kanto region, Gunma Prefecture is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures. Known for its stunning hot springs, picturesque mountains, and traditional festivals, Gunma Prefecture is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat in the serene countryside or an adrenaline-pumping experience on the ski slopes, Gunma Prefecture has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this captivating destination that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Gunma Prefecture Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Gunma Prefecture videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Gunma Prefecture in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
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Best Places To Visit in Gunma Prefecture
1. Takasaki : Takasaki is the largest city in Gunma Prefecture and is known for its hot springs and traditional Japanese festivals. The city is also home to the Takasaki Castle ruins, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
2. Maebashi : Maebashi is the capital city of Gunma Prefecture and is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. The city is also home to the Gunma Museum of Art, which features a collection of Japanese and Western art.
3. Shibukawa : Shibukawa is a small town in Gunma Prefecture that is known for its hot springs and natural beauty. The town is also home to the Ikaho Onsen, which is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan.
4. Kusatsu : Kusatsu is a popular tourist destination in Gunma Prefecture and is known for its hot springs and beautiful scenery. The town is also home to the Kusatsu International Ski Resort, which offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.
5. Numata : Numata is a small town in Gunma Prefecture that is known for its beautiful natural scenery. The town is also home to the Numata Castle ruins, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
6. Isesaki : Isesaki is a city in Gunma Prefecture that is known for its traditional Japanese crafts. The city is also home to the Isesaki Shrine, which is one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
7. Ota : Ota is a city in Gunma Prefecture that is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. The city is also home to the Ota City Museum of Art, which features a collection of Japanese and Western art.
8. Kiryu : Kiryu is a small town in Gunma Prefecture that is known for its traditional Japanese textiles. The town is also home to the Kiryu Castle ruins, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
9. Fujioka : Fujioka is a city in Gunma Prefecture that is known for its beautiful natural scenery. The city is also home to the Fujioka Castle ruins, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
10. Annaka : Annaka is a small town in Gunma Prefecture that is known for its traditional Japanese crafts. The town is also home to the Annaka City Museum of History and Folklore, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the region.
Hotels Map Of Gunma Prefecture
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Gunma Prefecture.
Tours And Activities In Gunma Prefecture
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Food & Drinks To Try In Gunma Prefecture
1. Gunma Wagyu Beef: Gunma Prefecture is known for its high-quality Wagyu beef, which is renowned for its marbling and tenderness. Make sure to try dishes like Wagyu steak or sukiyaki made with Gunma Wagyu beef for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
2. Okkirikomi: Okkirikomi is a traditional Gunma dish that consists of thick udon noodles served in a soy-based broth with various toppings such as green onions, tempura, and kamaboko (fish cake). This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for colder days.
3. Kusatsu Onsen Manju: Kusatsu Onsen is a famous hot spring town in Gunma Prefecture, and one of its popular local specialties is Kusatsu Onsen Manju. These steamed buns are filled with sweet red bean paste and have a unique shape resembling the hot spring water bubbles. They make for a delicious and cute souvenir.
4. Takasaki Daruma: Takasaki City in Gunma Prefecture is famous for its Daruma dolls, which are traditional Japanese dolls representing Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. In honor of these dolls, you can find various Daruma-shaped snacks and sweets, such as Daruma-shaped taiyaki (fish-shaped pancake filled with sweet bean paste) or Daruma-shaped mochi.
5. Gunma Green Tea: Gunma Prefecture is known for its high-quality green tea production. Take the opportunity to try some locally grown green tea, which has a rich and refreshing flavor. You can find green tea in various forms, including loose leaf tea, tea bags, and even green tea-flavored desserts like ice cream or cakes.
6. Shimonita Negi: Shimonita Negi, also known as Shimonita Green Onion, is a specialty vegetable of Gunma Prefecture. These green onions have a unique sweetness and are often used in various dishes, such as hot pot or stir-fries. Don't miss the chance to try dishes featuring Shimonita Negi for a distinct and flavorful taste.
7. Gunma Sake: Gunma Prefecture is home to several sake breweries, producing a wide range of sake varieties. Take a sake brewery tour and sample different types of sake, from dry to sweet, to experience the local craftsmanship and flavors. Some popular Gunma sake brands include Tomi no Hozan and Shirasagi.
8. Gunma Apples: Gunma Prefecture is known for its apple orchards, producing delicious and juicy apples. Try different apple varieties, such as Fuji or Akagi, which are often available for picking during the harvest season. You can also find various apple-based products like apple juice, apple pies, or apple jams.
9. Yaki Manju: Yaki Manju is a popular Japanese sweet treat, and Gunma Prefecture has its own unique version. These grilled buns are filled with sweet bean paste and have a slightly crispy exterior. They are perfect for a quick snack or dessert while exploring the prefecture.
10. Gunma Ramen: Gunma Prefecture has its own style of ramen, known as Gunma Ramen. This regional specialty features a soy-based broth with thin noodles, topped with ingredients like chashu (braised pork), green onions, and bamboo shoots. Don't miss the chance to try this local twist on the beloved Japanese dish.
Best Time To Visit Gunma Prefecture
The best time to visit Gunma Prefecture, Japan is during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring, which is from March to May, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a stunning and picturesque landscape. This is a great time to visit popular attractions such as Takasaki City and Kusatsu Onsen. In autumn, which is from September to November, Gunma Prefecture is adorned with vibrant fall foliage, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and countryside. The temperatures are also comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and onsen (hot spring) visits. It is important to note that Gunma Prefecture experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, especially in the mountainous areas. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during the winter months unless you are a fan of winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Overall, the spring and autumn seasons provide the most enjoyable and picturesque experiences in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
Flight Calendar For Gunma Prefecture
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Gunma Prefecture.
Transportation To Gunma Prefecture
There are several transportation options to Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
1. By Train: Gunma Prefecture is well-connected by train. You can take a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Takasaki Station, which is the main gateway to Gunma. From there, you can transfer to local trains or buses to reach your desired destination within Gunma Prefecture.
2. By Bus: There are also direct bus services from Tokyo to various cities in Gunma Prefecture. The bus journey takes longer than the train but can be a more economical option.
3. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car in Tokyo and take the Kanetsu Expressway or the Joshinetsu Expressway to reach Gunma Prefecture. The journey time will depend on your starting point and destination within Gunma.
4. By Air: The nearest airport to Gunma Prefecture is Tokyo Haneda Airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Maebashi Airport, which is located in Gunma Prefecture. However, this option is less common and may not be as convenient as the other modes of transportation.
Once you arrive in Gunma Prefecture, there are local transportation options such as trains, buses, and taxis to help you get around within the prefecture.