Outdoors
Fuji-no-Saku Oka
Fujioka
Fujioka is famous for its wisteria in the spring, and what better place to see them than "The hill where wisteria bloom"? Fuji-no-Saku-Oka, and the concert hall next to it, Fuji Fureaikan, are the spot of Fujioka's Fuji Matsuri. Usually lasting from mid-April through early May, the festival features the usual food stalls, as well as booths selling traditional goods and even wisteria! There are also numerous performances throughout the festival. The flowers usually reach full bloom in May, so for the full impact it is better to go later in the year. Spring is not the only time this area is beautiful, however. There are numerous walking and hiking trails, many sports fields, a gym, and a big open field for picnics and games as well.
Kezoji Park
Isesaki
Kezoji Park is a great place for Hanami. It also has a ferris wheel and other fun rides to keep you entertained!
Fukiware Falls
Katashina
Arguably one of the most famous waterfalls in Japan, Fukiware Falls is a must-see in Gunma. When the water is lower you can walk right out onto the rocks over the falls to get a great view. There is a 500円 fee for parking at the falls. Visit a local soba shop along the road for a post-falls lunch.
Oze National Park
Katashina
Gunma’s biggest national park, Oze boarders Gunma, Tochigi and Niigata prefectures. It is a massive marshland with an extensive boardwalk system built to allow visitors to explore the area. Oze changes drastically with the seasons, from various flowers to fall colors, and is worth visiting several times a year. There are a few rest stations throughout the park as well as pay toilets. It is possible to hike a good bit of Oze in a day, or bring tents to stay for the weekend.
Oze-Iwakura Lily Garden
Katashina
The largest lily field in the Kanto region, the Oze Iwakura ski fields have over 3 million lilies! Visit from early July to the end of August. Stroll through the various flower gardens and view the different kinds of lilies, or take the chair lift to the top for an aerial view. Try the lily soft cream at the top! Lilies are for sale if you feel inspired to create your own lily garden. 1000円 entry fee.
Bungee
Minakami
Minakami is home to the highest bungee in Japan. The guys that run the bungee are super chill and speak English. First jump is 7,500円, second jump is 4,500円.
Canyons
Minakami
The top adventure sports spot in Gunma, with awesome English speaking staff. White-water rafting, canyoning, snowboarding, snowshoeing, back country skiing/snowboarding, downhill mountain biking, caving, yoga, plus endless parties and events including Summer Splash & Snow Splash.
I Love Canoe
Minakami
Located at Naramata Lake in Minakami. Do a full day or half day tour with an experienced guide. Super friendly and chill English speaking staff.
Tanigawadake Ropeway
Minakami
Take the gondola up Gunma's famous mountain for spectacular views of the Tone region. An adult one-way trip is 1200円 and return is 2000円
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.
Tanbara Lavendar Park
Numata
From late June to September the Tanbara ski fields are filled with over 50,000 lavender plants, making it the biggest lavender field in the Kanto region. 1000円 entry fee.
Takasaki Football pitches
Takasaki
Come and practice your footy skills in preparation for the East Japan ALT Soccer Tournament held every June and October in Nagano prefecture.
Takasaki Park
Takasaki
A small park near the city hall. Perfect for celebrating Hanami during Cherry Blossom season.
群馬サファリパーク Gunma Safari Park
Tomioka
You can see lions, tigers, elephants, zebras, giraffes and many other animals at the Gunma Safari Park. These animals are allowed to roam free through the grounds. There are places where you can touch and feed the animals and a small amusement park next to the safari grounds. You can choose to tour the safari park in a range of different vehicles.
Admission prices(safari park only) :
Adult 2600yen
Children 1300yen
(Additonal costs for tours.)
Opening hours:
March - October 9.30am - 4pm
November - February 9.30am - 3.30pm
(Closed on Wednesdays)
Please check the website for more details.
