Gunma Prefecture is Japan's hot spring capital, mountain playground, and silk heritage land — a landlocked prefecture north of Tokyo where volcanic peaks, therapeutic onsen, pristine highland forests, and the UNESCO World Heritage Tomioka Silk Mill define a destination unlike anywhere else in Japan.
At a glance
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
Bar Ruri Takasaki
Known for: Japanese whisky and craft cocktails; extensive Suntory and Nikka whisky selection
2-8-4 Tenjincho, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0044
Craft Beer Pub Yama no Kami (Minakami)
Known for: Local Gunma craft beers on tap; regional specialties brewed with Minakami mountain water
Near Minakami Station, Minakami-machi, Tone-gun, Gunma 379-1300
Sake Bar Joshu Maebashi
Known for: Gunma local sake — selections from Chichibu, Yoigokochi, and Kaiga breweries; sake and snack pairing sets
1-4-5 Omachi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-0023
Onsen Bar Kusatsu Yuki
Known for: Cosy bar popular with hot spring visitors for post-onsen drinks; yukata-friendly environment
Kusatsu town centre, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma 377-1711
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.