A Trip to Gunma Prefecture! A Female Writer Talks About Japan’s Charming Unexplored Regions!
When I first experienced the charm of Gunma Prefecture
The moment you set foot in Gunma Prefecture for the first time
I have traveled all over Japan, but Gunma Prefecture has left a particularly strong impression on me. When I first visited Gunma Prefecture, I felt the special charm of this place with the unforgettable scenery and the warmth of the people.
The beauty of nature is the charm of Gunma
Gunma Prefecture is blessed with beautiful mountains and clear streams. In particular, “Tanigawadake” and “Akagiyama” can be enjoyed in every season, and there are new discoveries every time you visit. In winter, I am healed at “Tanigawa Onsen” on Mt. Tanigawa, and in summer, I enjoy swimming in the clear stream and BBQ. When I visited Mt. Akagi in early summer, I was particularly impressed by the hiking in the fresh greenery.
Traditional culture and delicious local gourmet food
Gunma Prefecture has many places where you can feel traditional Japanese culture. For example, Jomo Karuta is a traditional game that originated in Gunma Prefecture and is loved by the locals. Gunma Prefecture is also rich in delicious gourmet foods such as konnyaku and Joshu mochi pork. In particular, the Mochibuta shabu-shabu provided by Gunmachanko, a local company, is exquisite and once you try it, you will never forget it.
My recommended spot: Gunma Safari Park
There are many spots in Gunma Prefecture that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike, but I would especially recommend Gunma Safari Park. This safari park, where you can drive around the living spaces of the animals, has a vast site that is unimaginable from the city. In fact, it’s more than three times the size of an average zoo, so you can see the animals freely and up close.
Gunma Prefecture is a place with many attractions such as natural beauty, traditional culture, and local cuisine. I would like you to feel the charm of this wonderful place through my experience of Gunma, which has been particularly memorable in my travels.
Attractiveness of “people” seen in Gunma’s local experience
Meeting the locals makes the trip special
The most memorable thing about my trip is actually not the scenery or famous places of the land, but the warmth and stories of the people I met. Gunma Prefecture is no exception. While interacting with the locals, I was able to feel the true charm of Gunma.
Learn about Gunma’s food culture through a farm experience
Gunma Prefecture is rich in fresh agricultural products grown on the rich land. In particular, in the area called “Joshu Shinden”, you can stay with a family who works as a local farmer, help with farm work and experience harvesting. I challenged myself to make homemade konnyaku with an old farmer. She was touched by the warmth of her hands and her passion for carrying on her traditional craftsmanship.
take part in a local festival
In summer, traditional festivals are held in various parts of Gunma. I had the opportunity to participate in the “Ota Festival”, where I wore a yukata and danced with the locals. The liveliness of the night market, the smiles of the children, and the warmth of the locals were a valuable experience that cannot be experienced in any other tourist destination.
A new spot where you can feel the future of Gunma
Gunma’s New Tourist Destination: “Shibukawa Skyline”
The recently talked about “Shibukawa Skyline” is a scenic spot where you can see the nature of Gunma. This place is attracting attention as a new tourist destination, and local young people are taking the lead in revitalizing it. Stargazing events are also held at night, allowing you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
“Jomo Digital Museum” where technology and tradition fuse
Gunma Prefecture is also attracting attention as a place where tradition and new culture fuse. The “Jomo Digital Museum” is a facility that uses cutting-edge technology to convey the history and culture of Gunma. Exhibitions using AR and VR have received high praise, especially from the younger generation.
Gunma Prefecture has a wide range of attractions, not only for its natural beauty and traditional culture, but also for encounters with the locals and new initiatives. From now on, I would like to convey the charm of Gunma to many people.
Tips for visiting Gunma
Be prepared for your trip
When visiting Gunma Prefecture, it is important to check the weather and event information for the season. A car is recommended as a means of transportation. The road conditions are good, and driving while feeling nature up close is exceptional.
Use local information magazines and tourist information centers
There is a tourist information center called “Gunma Travel Information Center” in Gunma Prefecture. Here, we will tell you about hidden sights that only locals know about, as well as recommended seasonal spots. In addition, you may be able to get limited souvenir information.
My recommended accommodation
There are various lodging facilities in Gunma Prefecture, but my recommendation is a ryokan called “Yumemiruyu” in “Kusatsu Onsen”. This hot spring has a high skin beautifying effect, and is especially highly evaluated by women. In addition, the cuisine uses fresh local ingredients, and each dish is exquisite.
lastly
The charm of Gunma prefecture is so diverse that you cannot fully feel it in just one visit. I myself find new discoveries no matter how many times I visit, and I am fascinated by its depth. I would be happy if you read this article and became interested in the charm of Gunma prefecture even a little.
You can also enjoy traveling alone or with friends and family. When I travel to Gunma, I am healed by the air and wind of the land and the smiles of the locals. From now on, I would like many people to feel the charm of Gunma Prefecture.
Historical building chosen by Kasumi
There are many attractive spots in Gunma Prefecture, but its historical buildings are especially valuable because they convey the history and culture of the past. This time, I, Kasumi, will introduce 5 historical buildings in Gunma that I particularly recommend. I will also explain each of them along with “kasumi points”.
Akagi Shrine (Maebashi City)
Kasumi Point: Located at the foot of Mt. Akagi, this shrine has long been revered as the center of faith in Gunma Prefecture. The scenery is beautiful in every season, and the autumn foliage is said to be especially spectacular.
Kurohone Inn (Nakanojo Town)
Kasumi Point: Kurohone-juku, located on the former Nakasendo Road, is a post town that retains the remnants of the Edo period. Walking through the streets lined with historic buildings will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Ikeda Castle Ruins (Tatebayashi City)
Kasumi Point: This castle, which was built by Ujiyasu Hojo, a military commander who was active during the Sengoku period, is now a park on the ruins. It is crowded with many visitors during the cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage.
Reizei House (Takasaki City)
Kasumi Point: Built in the Edo period, this historic residence offers a glimpse into the life of merchants at the time. It is a spot where you can enjoy the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture.
Risshakuji Temple (Midori City)
Kasumi Point: Said to be the oldest temple in Gunma Prefecture, this temple has a solemn atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and numerous cultural assets. Especially during the fall foliage season, there is no doubt that you will be captivated by its beauty.
These are the 5 historical buildings in Gunma Prefecture selected by Kasumi. Please visit while feeling the history and background of each. You can feel the deep history and culture of Gunma through these buildings.
