Last updated: April 24, 2024
Three historical wooden buildings next to the Tone River in Maebashi once served as a state guest house for VIPs. The main building was constructed in 1884 and is an exemplary instance of Japanese architecture at the beginning of Japan's modernization. The adjoining Maebashi Park is a popular cherry blossom spot in spring. Rinkokaku is easily accessible from Tokyo via Takasaki.
It takes about 80 minutes to reach Rinkokaku by train and bus from Tokyo. Transfer at Takasaki Station to a local Ryomo Line train to Shim-Maebashi Station. From there, take a bus and then walk about 10 minutes to Rinkokaku. Alternatively, you can take a train to Maebashi Station, then a bus to Kenchomae Bus Stop, then walk. The walking distance for both routes is about the same.
You can board Hokuriku and Joetsu shinkansen services at Tokyo Station.
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Shinkansen trains from Tokyo Station reach Takasaki Station in under 1 hour. The train fare is covered by various Japan Rail Passes.
Takasaki is a stop on the Joetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines, and the gateway to Gunma: express trains and local trains from Tokyo stop at Takasaki Station. You can transfer to local trains and buses for destinations across Gunma.
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Transfer from the shinkansen platform at Takasaki Station to the local Ryomo Line for Shim-Maebashi Station. The journey takes around 10 minutes.
Maebashi is the prefectural capital and a convenient gateway to onward destinations in Gunma. Buses stop near the east exit of the station. There is also a taxi stand at the east exit.
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Take a Maebashi-Takasaki Line (Gunma Chuo Bus 11A) bus service from Shim-Maebashi Station to Shiyakusho / Gocho Mae Bus Stop. You can pay the fare in cash or with a transportation IC card as you exit the bus. The trip takes around 10 minutes.
The bus stop is in front of Maebashi City Hall in the heart of Maebashi’s government district. There are restaurants and cafes nearby.
It takes around 10 minutes on foot from the bus stop to Rinkokaku. The route takes you past Maebashi Park.
You can use the JR Tokyo Wide Pass, JR East Pass, and other JR passes for trains on this route. However, bus fares must be paid separately. There are many passes and travel combinations to discover, so use the links below to find your ideal travel plan.
・JR East Pass
・JR Tokyo Wide Pass
・Japan Rail Pass
・JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass
Save time and purchase train tickets and passes, and reserve seats online, before you travel.
Takasaki and Maebashi offer a wide range of accommodations with easy access to Rinkokaku. For a unique experience, stay at Shiroiya Hotel, a destination for art, architecture, and fine dining.
