Take time out from your busy itinerary to simply soak, clear your mind, and recharge your spirit.

 

Japan is known for its onsens, or hot springs, which are acclaimed for their therapeutic qualities. These mineral-rich waters not only detoxify but also stimulate improved blood circulation, contribute to clearer skin, and offer a myriad of other health advantages. 

 

Across the globe, seekers of relaxation and tranquility find solace in Japan, which has more than 3,000 registered hot spring resorts. These hot springs not only provide a refreshing soak but also offer a historical immersion into Japan's onsen culture. 

If you plan to experience Japan’s hot springs, here are some onsen destinations to explore in Gunma, just a few rides away from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo.

 

Shima Tamura: A Traditional Elegance

 

©Shima Tamura

 

In the heart of Gunma stands a testament to the region's rich tradition of hot spring culture. The natural hot springs in Shima Onsen are celebrated for their healing properties, drawing visitors seeking physical and spiritual renewal. Shima means '40,000', which refers to the number of illnesses that hot spring water is believed to be able to cure.

 

Shima Tamura is the longest-standing hotel in Shima Onsen, having operated for 15 generations since the 1600s. This Japanese-style establishment boasts a traditional entrance with a thatched roof, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture. It is rumored to have inspired the “Spirited Away” bath house with its similarity to the animation.

 

As one of the largest hot springs in the Kanto region, Shima Tamura is capable of producing 1,600 liters of hot spring water per minute. Guests can choose from six different types of baths, including a private bath available for an additional fee. Each bath offers a unique combination of relaxation and rejuvenation. Accommodation options vary, ranging from rooms with private hot spring baths to Japanese-style furnished rooms with western beds.

 

Complete your experience with its kaiseki cuisine, a multiple-course meal. It is prepared with careful consideration of the four seasons, weather conditions, and the preferences and physical well-being of her guests. The ingredients used in this dish are native to the region and are prepared depending on the season.

 

 

Minakami Sansou: A Nature's Retreat

 

©Gunma Official Website

 

Nature enthusiasts will find their haven in Minakami Sansou, a hot spring retreat surrounded by the lush landscapes of Gunma. It is located at the highest point in the Tanigawa Hot Springs Village, peacefully situated near a mountain stream. Minakami Sansou's water has earned a prestigious "5-star" designation from the Japan Spa Association, attesting to its exceptional quality.

 

The modern Japanese inn boasts of 17 Japanese-style rooms featuring private hot spring baths and spectacular views of Mt. Tanigawa. For a more private experience, guests can reserve a hot spring bath.

 

For culinary enthusiasts, Minakami Sansou offers a gastronomic delight with seasonal cuisine sourced from all across the country. The menu is consistently refreshed to incorporate the freshest seasonal ingredients, which skilled chefs meticulously craft into special dishes.

 

The natural setting enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to connect with the environment while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs. Minakami Sansou provides a perfect balance, combining the healing power of hot springs with the rejuvenating energy of nature.

 

 

 

During your time in Gunma, make sure to savor the region's unique dishes, adding a flavorful dimension to your onsen journey.

 

Okkirikomi

 

©Gunma Official Website

 

Okkirikomi, a hearty Gunma stew, features wide udon noodles that are made with only flour and water. It is cooked with local, seasonal vegetables such as carrots, leeks, and shiitake mushrooms in a soy sauce-based soup. Miso-based and soy sauce-miso combinations are also soup options. It is a perfect option for warming up during cold winter weather.

 

Ginhikari

 

©Gunma Official Website

Another Gunma dish is the top-tier, selectively farmed rainbow trout in Gunma called Ginhikari. This exquisite fish, renowned for its red, delicate meat, is particularly delightful as sashimi. It can be savored at various eateries and ryokan inns across Gunma, such as those along the Kawaba Denen Plaza Roadside Station.

 

Manju

 

©Gunma Official Website

 

Manju is a beloved sweet delicacy enjoyed throughout Japan. It holds a special significance in Gunma Prefecture, where two unique versions of this dumpling-like treat originated. One of these variations, known as yaki-manju, features unfilled buns skewered and coated in a sweet miso sauce before being roasted over charcoal. This cooking method imparts a chewy texture and a subtle savory twist to the yaki-manju, distinguishing it from other regional varieties.

 

Onsen manju, the other renowned variation, is commonly found in hot spring resorts across Japan. However, it is believed to have its roots in Ikaho Onsen, a famous hot spring destination in Gunma Prefecture. These soft buns are characterized by their brown exterior, which mirrors the golden hue of Ikaho's hot spring water. Onsen manju is filled with sweet red bean paste and is steamed to perfection, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that encapsulate the essence of Gunma's culinary heritage.

 

Isobe Senbei

©Gunma Official Website

 

Lastly, the Japanese rice crackers, senbei, is a popular snack and souvenir from Gunma. Isobe Senbei is a subtly sweet variant that stands out from Isobe Onsen. Crafted from spring water, flour, and sugar, these crackers are a delightful treat. You can explore the town and get a chance to try a sampling of senbei from different shops along your stroll.

 

These are just a few of the many special foods that can be found in Gunma Prefecture. With its rich natural resources and diverse culinary history, Gunma is a great place to explore the delicious flavors of Japan.

 

 

Gunma's hot springs offer a really enjoyable way to refresh yourself. Whether you seek tradition, luxury, or a connection with nature, a lot of onsens stand ready to provide a therapeutic escape near Tokyo. 

 

Embrace the healing waters, indulge in the tranquility, and set the tone for a year filled with relaxation, well-being, and positive energy.