Gunma Prefecture is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers! Located in the center of Japan’s main island and surrounded by mountains, its slopes are perfect for skiing in winter, or canyoning and hiking in warmer months. It is also home to some historic hot spring villages, which are great places to enjoy a relaxing soak.
Art & Culture
Daruma, hollow and rounded dolls generally made from paper, are one of Japan’s most enduring lucky icons. In Takasaki, visitors can try their hand at the craft in a workshop led by artisans recognized by Gunma Prefecture’s most famous daruma craftsman.
Nature & Outdoor
Several exhilarating ways to reconnect with nature and shake off the months of sitting at home can be found at Minakami, one of Japan’s premiere spots for white water rafting and canyoning.
Food & Drink
Gunma, home to some of the juiciest fruits and vibrant vegetables in Japan, is waiting for travelers to taste the bounty of the region. And we know just the spot to enjoy the seasonality of the prefecture directly from the source.
Relaxing Stay
Of the 2,982 or so onsen (natural hot spring baths) in Japan, Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma has been rated number one of the Top 100 Onsen selected by travel pros for the past 17 years in a row. Come learn how this small town has become one of the most popular onsen resort towns in the country, fielding around 3 million visitors annually.
History
Japan’s first silk model factory is now a place where visitors can come learn about the history and development of the nation’s raw silk industry less than two hours from Tokyo. (Photo provided by Gunma Prefecture.)