An Art-Inspired Journey in Gunma

Begin your art journey at the Hara Museum ARC in Shibukawa. This contemporary art museum, surrounded by lush greenery, is home to an impressive collection of works by renowned Japanese and international artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Yoshitomo Nara, Andy Warhol, Olafur Eliasson, and Jean-Michel Othoniel. Enjoy permanent installations and rotating exhibits, and explore the outdoor spaces with sculptures that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings.

Conveniently located on the way to Ikaho Onsen, Hara Museum ARC is easily accessible by bus from the onsen town or from Shibukawa Station. The museum is the perfect introduction to Gunma’s commitment to blending art and nature.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Ikaho Onsen, a historic hot spring town. Stroll along the famous stone steps and visit IKAHO HOUSE 166, a former inn that now houses restaurants and cafes, and craft ateliers. You can paint your own kokeshi dolls at Usaburo Kokeshi, and daruma dolls at Daimonya. Stay at Chigira Jinsentei, a ryokan established in 1502 that has long been a retreat for writers and artists. The ryokan’s interiors are adorned with both contemporary and traditional artworks, and its open-air baths offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a relaxing soak and savor the creative atmosphere that has inspired generations of artists.

How to get to Ikaho

The Nakanojo Biennale, held every 2 years in the scenic Agatsuma River valley of northwestern Gunma, celebrates the transformative power of art in rural Japan and the area’s "satoyama" culture, where the people living in the mountain foothills strive to coexist harmoniously with the environment. Since it was founded in 2007, this art festival has grown into a major event featuring around 150 artists and over 40 venues spread across the towns and villages of Nakanojo, Isama, Shima Onsen, Sawatari Kuresaka, and Kuni.

The festival stands out for its deep community involvement and its use of historic local buildings, many repurposed from former schools, sake breweries, and even a former railway station. These venues not only preserve the area’s cultural heritage but also create unique spaces for artistic expression.

The Nakanojo Biennale was always intended to be a bridge between urban artists and rural residents. This connection has led to long-term artist residencies, with some participants even settling in the area. Meanwhile, local residents actively contribute to the festival’s production, promoting cultural exchange and revitalization in a region affected by depopulation. An example of this collaboration is Shima Onsen’s former Daisan Elementary School, which was preserved and repurposed by the residents as a community center after the school closed in 2005 and is now a vibrant hub for Biennale installations. The Nakanojo Biennale’s grassroots spirit and dedication to community make it a distinctive celebration of art and rural life.

From Shibukawa Station, you can take an Agatsuma Line train to Nakanojo Station. A few venues are within walking distance of the station, but the easiest way to explore the art venues is by car. Local buses connect the main exhibition areas, and free shuttle buses will operate between venues on weekends and public holidays. Check the Nakanojo Biennale website for details.

Between exploring the art installations, take time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Nakanojo. Visit Lake Shima, famous for its crystal-clear blue waters, and the Shima Potholes, unique rock formations carved by the Shima River over centuries. These natural wonders feel like artworks in their own right, adding depth to the experience.

For your second night, stay at Shima Tamura, a historical inn conveniently located near festival venues. Enjoy the ryokan’s hospitality and its relaxing indoor and outdoor onsen baths, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. In the spacious rooms, large windows frame views of the surrounding mountains and forests, creating natural masterpieces.

How to get to Shima

Spend the morning exploring more venues at the Nakanojo Biennale, as well as the charming town of Shima Onsen. Before leaving the area, head to Tsumuji Nakanojo Creative Communication Center near Nakanojo Station. It takes about 30 minutes by local bus or 20 minutes by car from Shima Onsen to the center, following the Shima River through verdant countryside. There are several cafes at the center for a quick bite, and shops selling local crafts. You may feel reluctant to leave this charming, rural part of Gunma, where art helps to forge warm connections with local communities. Take a few moments to relax in the free footbath at Tsumuji Nakanojo Creative Communication Center, as you reflect on your journey through Gunma’s artistic and natural landscapes.

If you have a little more time, consider staying over night at Shiroiya Hotel in Maebashi, before heading back towards Tokyo. Just meters from the hotel is Arts Maebashi, a contemporary art museum that aims to connect the community through art. Shiroiya Hotel, designed by architect Sou Fujimoto, is renowned for its contemporary art collection and has original artworks in every room. In the evening, hotel guests can enjoy the changing colors of Leandeo Erlich’s spectacular “Lighting Pipes” installation that winds through the vast atrium.

The Nakanojo Biennale 2025, themed Mountain of Light, will celebrate the Nakanojo region’s cultural and natural heritage through innovative art. Set against the backdrop of once-thriving mountain villages for sericulture (raising silkworms) and iron ore mining, works will reflect the transformative power of light and creativity. A highlight of the festival is the vibrant opening ceremony, where local children perform alongside professional artists in a fusion of genres—jazz meets gagaku, contemporary dance intertwines with kagura.

The event embodies the festival’s mission to bridge the gap between traditional and modern, local and global, celebrating shared creativity. Artists from as far away as Mexico, the US, and Germany will participate, alongside artists from across Asia and Japan. The Biennale will run from September 13 to October 13, 2025. Around 40 venues will host exhibitions and performances, spread across Nakanojo’s city center, Isama, Shima Onsen, Sawatari Kuresaka, and Kuni. For a full list of participating artists, venues, and events, check the official website.