Minakami

Minakami is a mountainous area with rich natural scenery and an adventurous streak. Minakami is at the source of Tone River, known for its thrilling whitewater rafting. The area provides world-class skiing, with a choice of ski resorts and backcountry options. If that’s still not enough adventure, try hiking Mt. Tanigawa, a technical climb along the steep ridgeline. Alternatively, the mountain’s ropeway is a relaxed way of seeing the views and is particularly beautiful on snowy winter days or when the fall foliage is at its peak. The nearby outdoor riverside onsen, Takaragawa, is one of the most picturesque in Japan.

See & Do

Action & Adventure

Tanigawadake Tenjindaira Ski Resort

Try world-class backcountry skiing at Tanigawadake Tenjindaira, one of Gunma’s best-kept secrets. It is known for its plentiful powder and variety of terrain, including well-spaced trees and steep chutes. Access the small resort via the Tanigawadake Ropeway, then explore the sidecountry and backcountry from there. Beware of avalanche risk and hire a guide for safety.

Nature & Outdoors

Mt. Tanigawa

Adventurers prize Mt. Tanigawa (1,977 meters) for its tricky but beautiful hiking. Craggy slopes and ridgeline treks make for dramatic landscapes. Less experienced hikers can take its more accessible trails or see the views from Tanigawadake Ropeway, which provides a different experience every season.

Action & Adventure

Rafting in Minakami

The Tone River is one of Japan's top rafting spots. In spring, snow melting from the surrounding mountains swells the river and provides perfect conditions for thrilling white water rafting. In summer, the experience is more tranquil, allowing you to enjoy the surrounding nature at a leisurely pace.

Relaxation

Accommodation

Hoshi Onsen Chojukan

Venture out a little further to Hoshi Onsen, part of Joshin’etsukogen National Park. This secluded spot along the Hoshi River makes for the perfect hideaway. The pretty inn has a beautiful wooden onsen which is fed by water bubbling up from the bottom from between stones laid underneath. The bath is mixed, but there are women-only bathing times, too.

Accommodation

Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Soak in Japan’s largest open-air hot bath (rotenburo) at this picturesque onsen set on the Takaragawa River. In autumn the surrounding foliage is a riot of colors, and in winter the riverbanks are thick with snow. Takaragawa is a mixed-gender onsen, and you can rent a bathing suit to wear.

When to Visit

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Winter

March-May
Minakami is a great place for an active adventure. In spring, whitewater rafting on Tone River is a popular option for an adrenaline rush. Alternatively, you can take to the slopes at the area's ski resorts until April. After skiing on Mt. Tanigawa, take the opportunity to picnic under the cherry blossoms at Yaze Shinsui Park, where they bloom around mid-April.

Getting Around

Minakami is spread out across the mountains, but sights are well-connected by buses from Minakami Station and nearby Jomo-Kogen Station. To maximize your time, plot your itinerary in advance. If you’re planning to visit several places throughout your stay, a three-day bus pass, which provides unlimited use of the local buses, is a good investment.

Renting a Car

The sights of Minakami are a little spread out, and buses are infrequent. The best way to explore the area is to rent a car. Minakami itself has limited rental car outlets, but Jomo-Kogen Station has several options. Book in advance to be sure of securing a vehicle. In winter, heavy snowfall and ice can affect driving conditions. To access remote locations where the roads are narrow, consider parking at a nearby roadside station and use the Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku shuttle bus. Reservations are required.

*You will need a valid driving license for Japan, such as an International Driving Permit (IDP) or legal translation of your license, depending on which country issued your license.

Travel Tips

In winter, Minakami receives deep, powder snow and has average low temperatures of around -5 degrees Celsius. The area is warmest in August, but rarely exceeds 30 degrees in mountainous areas.

Minakami is a sprawling area and much of it is remote. ATMs can be few and far between. Before heading to its remote reaches, withdraw any cash you might need, bearing in mind that many facilities do not accept card payment.

Get an overview of the area at Minakami Tourist Association near Jomo-Kogen Station.

Larger train stations, including Minakami and Jomo-Kogen stations, have coin lockers in which you can store your luggage. The Minakami Tourist Association offers a one-day-only luggage storage service.

Minakami is spread-out, and in its remotest parts there is very little Wi-Fi outside of accommodation facilities. To be sure you can stay connected, buy a pre-paid SIM card or organize a pocket Wi-Fi rental on arrival in Japan.