After more than a year, I’m back in Japan. It seems I’ve kept up my tradition of visiting Japan every year since 2019 (except for 2021 due to COVID). Although this is my 11th visit to Japan, I had the chance to explore several prefectures I hadn’t visited before, one of them being Gunma. I’ve always wanted to visit Gunma ever since watching the Initial D movie. And I’m really glad I did. Keep reading to find out more about our journey.
What is Gunma, Japan known for?
Gunma Prefecture is best known for its abundance of hot springs, mountainous landscapes, and outdoor adventures, making it one of Japan’s top nature getaways just outside Tokyo. Thanks to its many volcanoes and geothermal activity, Gunma is home to some of the country’s most famous onsen towns, including Kusatsu Onsen, often ranked among Japan’s best, as well as Ikaho Onsen and Minakami Onsen. These hot spring resorts attract visitors year-round who come to relax, soak, and enjoy the slower pace of rural Japan.
Surrounded by mountains, Gunma offers stunning natural scenery and a wide range of outdoor activities. The prefecture is popular for hiking, trekking, and scenic drives in warmer months, while winter transforms it into a destination for skiing and snowboarding, with several resorts that are easily accessible from Tokyo. Rivers and valleys in areas like Minakami also make Gunma a hotspot for adventure sports such as rafting and canyoning.
Gunma is also well known among pop culture and car enthusiasts as the setting that inspired Initial D. Mount Haruna (known as Mount Akina in the series) has become an iconic location for fans, symbolising Japan’s mountain road and drifting culture. Beyond pop culture, Gunma’s volcanic terrain shapes its landscapes and supports rich agriculture, producing local specialities.
Attractions
Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple
Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture. It is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Daruma doll, one of Japan’s most iconic symbols of perseverance and good luck. Founded in the late 17th century, the temple is deeply connected to Zen Buddhism and the teachings of Bodhidharma (Daruma), whose image inspired the round, resilient Daruma figures seen throughout Japan. For many visitors, the temple is not just a sightseeing spot but a place of reflection, intention-setting, and cultural significance.
This temple has been on my list for a long time, and finally visiting it felt especially meaningful. Walking through the grounds, you’re surrounded by countless Daruma dolls of all sizes, each representing a personal wish or goal.
Visitors typically paint in one eye when making a wish and return to fill in the other once the wish is fulfilled, a simple yet powerful ritual that makes the experience feel deeply personal. The quiet atmosphere, paired with the vivid red Daruma figures, creates a striking contrast that’s both peaceful and inspiring.
Since we were there, of course, we had to get our own daruma. Although there’s a common belief that different colours represent different meanings, such as gold for wealth, white for a fresh start, and red for luck, we noticed a sign at the temple explaining that the colours actually have no specific meaning. In the end, my husband chose the classic red daruma, while I picked the white one.
Details
Location : 296 Hanadakamachi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0868, Japan.
Business hours : Daily (9.00am - 5.00pm)
Entrance fees : Free
Haruna Shrine
Haruna Shrine is a sacred Shinto shrine nestled deep within the forested mountains of Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture. Believed to have been found over 1,400 years ago, the shrine is dedicated to Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, a deity associated with protection, strength, and good fortune. Set at the foot of Mount Haruna, the shrine’s secluded location gives it a mystical atmosphere, making it a spiritual retreat for those seeking peace away from the city.
The approach to Haruna Shrine is an experience in itself. Visitors walk along a stone path lined with towering cedar trees, moss-covered rocks, and a gently flowing stream, creating a calm and almost otherworldly setting.
As you move deeper into the grounds, the shrine’s beautifully preserved wooden structures come into view, blending harmoniously with the surrounding nature. The vivid red and intricate architectural details stand out against the lush greenery, especially during autumn when the area is filled with vibrant fall colours.
Haruna Shrine is known as a powerful place for prayers related to career success, business prosperity, and personal protection, attracting worshippers from across Japan. Beyond its spiritual significance, the shrine offers a moment of quiet reflection, where the sounds of nature replace everyday noise.
Visiting Haruna Shrine feels less like a typical sightseeing stop and more like a journey into Japan’s spiritual landscape, leaving a lasting sense of calm and reverence.
Must-eat street food - Yakimanju
When in Gunma, Yakimanju is a must-eat street food you can’t miss. This local favorite features soft, fluffy steamed buns grilled over charcoal, then generously brushed with a sweet and savory miso glaze.
Lightly smoky, slightly sweet, and deeply comforting, Yakimanju is more than a snack—it’s a taste of Gunma’s soul, often enjoyed fresh from the grill at festivals and roadside stalls.
Another Gunma street food you must try is Onsen Manju. These soft, steamed buns are typically filled with sweet red bean paste and lightly flavored with brown sugar, giving them a gentle sweetness and comforting aroma. Often enjoyed near hot spring towns, Onsen Manju is the perfect treat after a soak, simple, nostalgic, and deeply tied to Gunma’s onsen culture.
Details
Location : 849 Harunasanmachi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-3341, Japan.
Business hours : Daily (7.00am - 5.00pm)
Entrance fees : Free
Ikaho Onsen Stone Steps
Ikaho Onsen Stone Street (Ishidangai), located in the scenic town near Mount Haruna in Gunma Prefecture, is a charming historic street that feels like stepping back in time. Lined with traditional wooden houses, quaint shops, and local eateries, the street offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s Edo-period heritage.
Walking along the cobblestone path, you can almost imagine the bustling activity of merchants and travellers from centuries past, giving the area a nostalgic and authentic atmosphere.
The street is particularly famous for its local crafts, souvenirs, and speciality snacks, making it a must-visit for travellers looking to take home a piece of Gunma’s culture. Seasonal decorations and festivals often enhance the ambience, especially during autumn when the surrounding mountains are painted in fiery shades of red and orange.
Visitors can stop at small cafés to enjoy traditional sweets or browse through shops selling handmade goods, all while soaking in the timeless charm of the area.
Haruna Stone Street is more than just a picturesque pathway; it’s a place where history, culture, and local life come together. Its proximity to Haruna Shrine and other Mount Haruna attractions makes it an ideal stop for a leisurely stroll, a photo session, or simply a moment to relax and enjoy the slower pace of life in this historic mountain town.
Whether you’re exploring for culture, cuisine, or scenic beauty, Haruna Stone Street offers an authentic and memorable experience in Gunma.
Nikuchimaki
I had no idea the Japanese have dumplings similar to Chinese ones. It was my first time trying Nikuchimaki, and I loved it! They even served it with mustard, which added an interesting and unexpected twist to the flavour.
I had no idea the Japanese have dumplings similar to Chinese ones. It was my first time trying Nikuchimaki, and I loved it! They even served it with mustard, which added an interesting and unexpected twist to the flavour.
Details
Location : 76-5 Ikahomachi Ikaho, Shibukawa, Gunma 377-0102, Japan.
Business hours : 24 hours (depending on the shops)
Accommodation
Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku
As mentioned, Gunma is one of Japan’s top onsen destinations, so experiencing it was a must for us. Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku is one of Japan’s most picturesque and renowned hot spring resorts, located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture.
Famous for its vast outdoor rotenburo (open-air baths) that stretch along the Takaragawa River, the onsen offers a unique experience where guests can soak in naturally heated mineral waters while being surrounded by lush forests and flowing waters. The combination of soothing hot springs and the breathtaking natural scenery makes it a favourite destination for both relaxation and photography.
The resort provides a traditional Japanese ryokan experience, complete with tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and authentic kaiseki meals made from seasonal ingredients. What sets Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku apart is the size and openness of its baths, which allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying complete tranquillity.
The riverside location also provides a serene backdrop, especially in winter when snow blankets the mountains, creating a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
During our stay in Gunma, most of our meals were enjoyed at the ryokan, as they were included in the package. Here’s a glimpse of the breakfast and dinner we had.
New Year’s Eve Dinner
Our New Year’s Eve dinner was a delightful experience, featuring a variety of dishes such as proteins, crab dumplings, seasonal seafood, local soba, tempura, dessert, and more. We were completely stuffed by the end of the meal. Honestly, I really miss dining at a ryokan — it’s the perfect way to enjoy a wide variety of foods through beautifully prepared small dishes, all in one sitting.
We also ordered a kids’ meal for our daughter. It came with tomato rice, mashed potatoes, ebi tempura, French fries, apple juice, and dessert. Sachiko loved the tomato rice, and the Anpanman apple juice was absolutely adorable!
New Year's Breakfast
Our breakfast on the first day of 2026 was just as delightful.
Beyond its natural beauty, Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku is celebrated for its emphasis on relaxation and wellness. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties, helping to soothe tired muscles and rejuvenate the body.
Whether visiting for a day trip or staying overnight, guests can enjoy the harmony of warm water, scenic surroundings, and traditional Japanese hospitality. It’s no wonder Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku is considered a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable onsen experience in Gunma.
Details
Location : 1899 Fujiwara, Minakami, Tone District, Gunma 379-1721, Japan.
Price per night : RM1,000++ (depending on season and meals)
Kokuya Ryokan
Kokuya Ryokan is a charming traditional inn in Gunma that offers a truly authentic Japanese ryokan experience.
Known for its warm hospitality and peaceful atmosphere, the ryokan allows guests to slow down and enjoy the beauty of classic Japanese living, from tatami-matted rooms and futon bedding to thoughtfully prepared kaiseki-style meals that highlight seasonal and local ingredients.
One of the highlights of staying at Kokuya Ryokan is its relaxing onsen, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the area.
Whether it’s enjoying a carefully crafted breakfast, savoring a multi-course dinner, or simply soaking in the quiet surroundings, Kokuya Ryokan provides a comforting and memorable stay that captures the essence of traditional Japan.
We had an absolute blast enjoying their dinner! The matcha pudding was incredibly soft and delicious. To be honest, this was my hubby’s first time dining at a ryokan. Even though he has been to Japan five times, he usually stays in hotels rather than ryokans.
Details
Location : 2200 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan.
Price per night : RM800++ (depending on package)
Overall, Gunma is known for offering a peaceful and authentic side of Japan, combining hot springs, natural beauty, seasonal scenery, and cultural charm — all within easy reach of Tokyo. I will definitely be revisiting in the future. Since we only managed to spend two days here, we’re excited to explore more of this prefecture next time.
#ShiniInGunma
For more photos, search the hashtag #ShiniInGunma on Instagram. There, you can also find additional details about my personal experiences during the trip.
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