Gunma Prefecture | A Land Where Hot Spring Culture and Mountain Wisdom Endure

Gunma Prefecture | A Land Where Hot Spring Culture and Mountain Wisdom Endure
Located in the northwestern part of the Kanto region, Gunma Prefecture is a land surrounded by majestic mountains and rich nature, offering the vibrant beauty of all four seasons.
The prefecture is home to some of Japan’s most renowned hot spring resorts. Among them, Kusatsu Onsen is considered one of the “Three Great Hot Springs of Japan” and has long been cherished as a therapeutic retreat. The sight of steam rising from the yubatake (hot water field) is emblematic of the area and warmly welcomes travelers. Gunma also boasts many other unique hot spring destinations, such as Ikaho, Shima, and Manza, each offering a soothing escape for both body and mind.
The region is characterized by the surrounding mountains, including the “Three Famous Mountains of Jōmō” — Mt. Akagi, Mt. Haruna, and Mt. Myōgi — making nature activities like hiking, mountain climbing, and winter sports easily accessible. Blessed with abundant water resources, including the headwaters of the Tone River, Gunma has a long history of life deeply connected with water.
The time-honored hot spring culture and the wisdom nurtured by mountain life together shape the unique climate, traditions, and ways of living that define Gunma.
- Maebashi City
- Maebashi City
- Takasaki City
- Kiryu City
- Approximately 1.9 million
- Kusatsu Onsen
- Ikaho Onsen
- Mt. Myogi
- Tomioka Silk Mill (World Heritage)
- Mizusawa Udon
- Yaki Manju (Broiled bun with sweet miso sauce)
- KIRYU textile
- Takasaki Daruma Doll

“Yubatake,” the symbol of Kusatsu Onsen – Because the source of Kusatsu’s hot spring water is extremely hot, ranging from 50°C to 90°C, it is exposed to the open air here to cool down before being distributed to the inns.

The crystal-clear blue surface of Lake Okushima is known as “Shima Blue.”

Takatsudo Gorge, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons.

“Yaki Manju” – A Local Specialty of Gunma

The Usui Pass (Megane Bridge), located between Gunma and Nagano prefectures, is the largest brick-arch bridge in Japan.