Agatsuma Region
Higashi Agatsuma, Kuni-mura, Kusatsu, Naganohara, Nakanojo, Takayama and Tsumagoi.
Add a location!Kusatsu International Ski Resort
Kusatsu
Located in one of our favorite Gunma towns, Kustatsu International Ski Resort is the perfect weekend snow destination. High up in the mountains, this resort gets tones of fresh powder throughout the winter, and with a mega long run you will be exhausted enough at the end of the day to truly enjoy an onsen soak in this famous resort town.
Hours: 8:30am – 9:00pm
つむじ Tsumuji
Nakanojo
Tsumuji is a new building in central Nakanojo (opened in 2010). For food there are a couple of cafes as well as a yakimanjyu shop, gelato shop, and a shop selling local art and goods. There are also a couple of exhibit spaces and a free foot spa. It’s a great place for a relaxed meal, or to pick up souvenirs on your way out of town. They also have concerts and events so please check out their website.
柏屋カフェ Kashiwaya Cafe
Nakanojo
Kashiwaya Cafe is a small cafe in the Shima Onsen area. It is right above the river and the second floor window seats have a nice view.
Their menu has a number of unique items like Onsen Natto Pizza, and Agashishi Korokke Burgers (which feature a cute onsen mark toasted on the bun), as well as more standard curry and lattes. They are open 10am - 5:30pm, closed on Thursdays.
Nakanojo Museum of Folk and History, Musee
Nakanojo
Nakanojo Museum of Folk and History`s main building was built in 1882, and was originaly used as an elemenatry school. In 2003 a new wing was added, housing additional exibit space, and offices. Currently there are over 6000 items on display ordered chronologicaly, covering a wide range of topics including onsens, local religion, education, and nature. In the past year a strong emphasis has been placed on making the museum `English Friendly` by translating item tags, fliers and their auditory guide into English. (With the help of local ALTs!!!!)
The Museum is open from 9-5 (last entry is at 4:30) and is closed on Thursdays. Entry is 200yen for adults, 100yen for children.
Ryumeikan
Nakanojo
Very English-friendly onsen.
Shima Onsen
Nakanojo
Shima Onsen is off route 353, about 20~30 min by car fron Nakanojo Station (JR Agatsuma Line). For people without a car there are busses leaving from Nakanojo Station.
There are a number of Ryokan/Hotels, the largest being Shima Grand. There are also a couple of Day Spas. 四万清流の湯 (Shima Seiryuu no Yu) is a nice day spa frequented by alot of Nakanojo locals, and has a great view of Shima River from their outdoor baths. It is open 10am - 9pm (8 pm in the winter) and costs 500yen/2 hours for Adults (300yen for children)
Shima Dam & Okushima Lake
Nakanojo
Shima Dam and Okushima Lake are located at the end of route 353 past Shima Onsen. There are a couple of free parking lots available for those with cars, but unfortunately no really convenient bus access. (Taxis are available from Shima Onsen) The walkway at the top of the dam affords an amazing view of the surrounding mountains and the lake. During months with no snow, there is a one way loop open to drive (or walk) around the lake, with a couple of small scenic stops and an aquatic plants garden along the way. The lake changes color almost every day depending on weather, and season. The scenic stops as well as a small park at the base are great places for a picnic on a warm spring/summer day. One word of caution: There are monkeys and occasionally bears in this area. Don’t be afraid just aware.
There is also a day spa at the top of the dam open from April to November (closed on the second Wednesday of each month). Adults: 400yen Children: 200yen.
Palcall Ski Resort
Tsumagoi
Palcall is an awesome little hill way out west in Tsumagoi, with frequent powder dumps and good facilities. There are great groomed runs for beginners and lots of little tree runs and off piste for the more advanced. A gondola will take you right to the top of the mountain, meaning short line-ups and long runs! Be sure to try a big sloppy burger at the top of the gondola!
Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm
