If you love hiking and plan to visit Kusatsu Onsen or Shima Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, consider having Yodate Eight Falls (世立八滝) on your itinerary. The waterfall group upstream of Shirasuna River (白砂川) in Kuni Village consists of eight waterfalls, each with its charm. If you understand Japanese or will be accompanied by an interpreter, …
Yodate Eight Falls: The Hidden Gem in Kuni Village Read More »
If you want to discover the beauty of Japan’s countryside, consider listing Nakanojō Town in Gunma Prefecture as a place to visit on your next Japan trip. A large part of Nakanojō was the old Kuni Village, which was chosen to be the 41st village of Japan’s Most Beautiful Villages in 2005. With 92% of …
Explore Kuni Village: One of Japan’s Most Beautiful Villages Read More »
If you have been to Kusatsu Onsen by public transportation, you must be very familiar with JR Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station (長野原草津口駅). A large concrete structure would suddenly appear just a 10-minute drive from JR Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station. It is a historical spot that excites relic enthusiasts and has become Nakanojō Town‘s tourist spot as it is close …
Former Ōshi Station – A Spot that Excites Relic Enthusiasts Read More »
Although moss are commonly seen across gardens in Japan, if you have a particular love towards the gorgeous green plant, visit Chatsubomi Moss Park (チャツボミゴケ公園)! The moss growing in the park isn’t one of the generic types as it can only be nurtured by the strong acidic mineral springs. It is a great off-the-beaten-path spot …
Gunma Prefecture’s Hidden Gem: Chatsubomi Moss Park Read More »
Nakanojō (中之条町) is a town in Gunma Prefecture where more than 80 per cent of the area consists of mountains and forests. Just like you might have guessed, the town is the most popular tourist destination in Agatsuma District (吾妻郡), where Nakanojō town is located. Besides the two hot spring resorts where most visitors head, …
A Guide to Nakanojō Hill Top Garden and Nakanojō Gardens Read More »
On the way to Shima Onsen‘s best natural spot, Lake Okushima, how about making a detour to Hinatami Yakushidō (日向見薬師堂)? The temple with a thatched roof is the legendary birthplace of the hot spring town. In addition, it also has a connection with the Sanada clan, a famous samurai family in the late 16th century!
Although Shima Onsen in Gunma Prefecture isn’t known to be a spot for fancy food, it has a couple of cafes, restaurants, and street food that you need to try out during your visit. Some are traditional snacks or sweets unique to the area, and others are just delicious as fresh ingredients sourced locally are …
The Must-Try Eateries and Street Food in Shima Onsen Read More »
If you are after a hot spring town in Gunma Prefecture where you can discover amazing natural scenery, Shima Onsen should top the list. The town is proud of what they call Shima Blue, a mysterious cobalt blue color that can be seen in most parts of Shima River on a sunny day. In particular, …
A Guide to Shima Potholes, Momotarō Falls, and Shima Lake Read More »
Shimagawa Dam (四万川ダム) is a magnificent dam completed in 1999 for flood control, river conservation, and power generation. Together with its completion, the enchanting artificial lake is formed, and Shima Onsen‘s best spot to indulge yourself in nature is born! Those who love outdoor activities can also enjoy a range of watersports there.
Although Tokiwasure no Yado Yoshimoto (時わすれの宿 佳元) in Shima Onsen requires some extra walking if you take public transportation, it is a ryokan that you will definitely love! While staying at Tokiwasure no Yado Yoshimoto isn’t exactly cheap, the experience is worth your money! The service, the food, the view, and the ryokan itself are all …
Shima Onsen’s Best Ryokan: Tokiwasure no Yado Yoshimoto Read More »