Useful Information

It depends on what kind of experience you want to have. Each season offers different scenery and activities. Find out more about the highlights of the seasons in Gunma here.

Gunma’s weather conditions vary greatly depending on the season and area. Wrap up warm, with multiple layers in winter, particularly if you’re staying in Gunma’s snowier northern reaches. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear for snow and ice. In summer, temperatures can get very warm. Be aware that when you’re hiking in the mountains, the weather can change quickly and conditions can be very different at the peak than they are at lower altitudes. Check the forecasts, bring layers, and plan ahead.

Gunma is very mountainous, which can add to travel times, especially in winter when heavy snow can cause some road closures. Getting around Gunma is typically easier with a car, particularly if you want to explore its most remote areas. Trains run to stations close to most of the major onsen resorts. From there, you can change to local buses, which serve many of the major destinations.

Gunma’s main destinations are popular during weekends and holidays, but generally quiet at other times. It’s easy to get to less touristy parts if you stay outside the main onsen and ski resorts. Discover Gunma’s “off the grid” destinations.

Explore the hotel and ryokan inn options in Gunma’s main destinations or, if you’d rather get off the grid, there are more remote options. Alternatively, immerse yourself in nature by camping or glamping in the wilderness. Read more about where to stay in Gunma.

There are some local delicacies Gunma is known for, including sukiyaki, konnyaku, and onsen manju. Find out more about what you should eat in Gunma here.

There are lots of hot springs in Gunma! The prefecture’s most famous onsen towns are Kusatsu, Minakami, Shima, and Ikaho, but there are many others to explore, too. Find more places in Gunma to relax.

There is some nightlife in Gunma’s larger towns. For inspiration, read our story on the best places to enjoy nights out in Gunma.

Gunma is famous for its onsen resorts, world-class skiing, outdoor adventure, and extraordinary hiking. It’s also famous for its long-standing silk industry and daruma dolls. Discover more about Gunma here.

Cherry blossoms in the southern part of Gunma, including Maebashi and Takasaki bloom from late March to mid-April. In Minakami, they bloom from mid to late April, and around Kusatsu, they are at their peak in late April. Keep an eye on national forecasts, which can pinpoint the date of full bloom. There is a second chance to see rarer cherry blossoms in winter at Sakurayama Park, too. Read our guide for more information on the best places to see cherry blossoms in Gunma.

Peak autumn foliage in Gunma varies from location to location but is generally at its most colorful between mid-October and early November. Read our guide for more information on the best places to see autumn foliage in Gunma.

Gunma Excellence is a certification awarded by Gunma Prefecture to tourism facilities that provide an exceptional level of service to international tourists, including language support, meal consultation for special dietary needs, Western-style bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi.