5-Day Gunma Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Gunma, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
On this page
About Gunma
Gunma Prefecture occupies the northwestern reaches of the Kanto region, flanked by volcanic mountain ranges on three sides that create a natural fortress of hot springs and highland scenery. Kusatsu Onsen, consistently ranked Japan's finest hot spring resort, draws visitors to its yubatake (hot water field) and the theatrical netsu-no-yu communal bathing ritual. The prefecture claims more than half of Japan's most beloved hot spring resorts: Ikaho, Shima, Minakami, Takaragawa, and Hoshi are all within an hour of each other. Beyond onsen, Gunma shaped the modern world through silk: the Tomioka Silk Mill, built in 1872 as Japan's first modern industrial facility, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that explains how this mountain prefecture drove Japan's industrialization. The Oze National Park in the north — Japan's largest highland wetland — rewards hikers with vast wooden boardwalk trails through pristine marshland. Mount Akagi, Mount Haruna, and Mount Myogi form Joshu's famous three mountains, each with distinct character and hiking trails. Gunma also produces Japan's favourite mascot: the Daruma doll, hand-painted in Takasaki and sold for good luck across the country.
- Capital
- Maebashi
- Largest city
- Maebashi
- Population
- 1.9 million
- Languages
- Japanese
- Currency
- Japanese Yen
- Time zone
- JST (UTC+9)
Explore Gunma by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Gunma
The 10 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
7-Day Classic Gunma
- Days 1-2Gunma city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Gunma
- Days 1-3Gunma comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Gunma, departure
Where to stay in Gunma
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget ¥6,000–10,000 ($40–67)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range ¥16,500–30,000 ($111–201)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ¥48,000–127,000 ($322–852)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Ichii
Check rates on Booking.comTakaragawa Onsen Osenkaku
Check rates on Booking.comHoshi Onsen Chojukan
Check rates on Booking.comIkaho Onsen Fukuya
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Gunma
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Chikurinan
Udon Kadoya
Restaurant Yamabiko
Takasaki Oisii
Yaki Manju Higashiya
Soba Dokoro Miyoshi
Getting around Gunma
Gunma has limited rail coverage outside Takasaki and Maebashi. A rental car or the Joshinetsu Expressway bus network is essential for reaching Kusatsu, Ikaho, Minakami, and remote onsen. Tokyo is 50–80 minutes by Shinkansen to Takasaki.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in JPY, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ¥3,000–5,000 ($20–34) guesthouses and budget ryokan | ¥10,000–18,000 ($67–121) mid-range ryokan with 2 meals | ¥30,000–80,000 ($201–536) premium ryokan with kaiseki meals |
| Food (per day) | ¥1,500–2,500 ($10–17) eating at casual restaurants and convenience stores | ¥3,000–5,000 ($20–34) restaurant meals and snacks | ¥8,000–20,000 ($54–134) kaiseki and fine dining |
| Transportation | ¥800–1,500 ($5–10) local buses and trains | ¥1,500–3,000 ($10–20) rented car or combined transit | ¥5,000–12,000 ($34–80) private taxi or rental car |
| Activities | ¥500–1,500 ($3–10) day onsen and site admissions | ¥2,000–4,000 ($13–27) guided onsen, attractions | ¥5,000–15,000 ($34–101) exclusive experiences |
| Daily total | ¥6,000–10,000 ($40–67) | ¥16,500–30,000 ($111–201) | ¥48,000–127,000 ($322–852) |
Best time to visit Gunma
Spring cherry blossoms at Haruna Lake peak mid-April. Autumn foliage (koyo) in Agatsuma Gorge and Oze runs mid-October to mid-November and is spectacular.
Essential travel tips
- Buy a Suica or Pasmo IC card at any major JR station for local buses and trains
- JR East Gunma Area Pass (¥3,000 / ~$20) covers unlimited local JR trains for 1 day — useful if exploring multiple areas
- Most onsen prohibit entry with tattoos; check individual facility policies in advance
- Gunma's mountains can be extremely cold from November to April; pack layers even in September
- Reserve onsen ryokan for Friday/Saturday nights at least 2–4 weeks in advance, especially in Kusatsu
Safety information
Check volcanic alert levels for Mt. Shirane (Kusatsu area) before hiking — Level 1 is normal; Level 2 restricts crater access. Monitor at volcano.kishou.go.jp
Carry cash: many rural onsen towns and mountain restaurants do not accept cards
In winter (Dec–Mar), mountain roads can close with little notice — carry tire chains or rent a 4WD
River activities near Minakami require using licensed operators for safety
Download the Safety tips for Japan app (published by Japan Tourism Agency) for emergency info in English
Frequently asked questions
Is Gunma safe to visit in 2026?
Gunma is one of Japan's safest prefectures. Crime rates are extremely low. The primary risks are natural: volcanic activity, winter mountain conditions, and river sports hazards near Minakami.
What is the best time to visit Gunma?
The best time to visit Gunma is May–June and late September–November.
Do I need a visa to visit Gunma?
Entry requirements follow Japan national rules. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for 90 days. Check the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website at mofa.go.jp for current requirements. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Gunma?
The currency in Gunma is the Japanese Yen (JPY). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Gunma?
The main language(s) spoken in Gunma: Japanese. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Gunma?
The top attractions in Gunma include Kusatsu Onsen Yubatake, Tomioka Silk Mill (UNESCO), Oze National Park, Ikaho Onsen Ishidan-dori, and Mount Akagi. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.