Manza Onsen in the north of Gunma Prefecture is the highest hot spring town in Japan at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level. There, you get to indulge yourself in hot springs surrounded by a panoramic snowy landscape in winter.
Consisting of several hotels and ryokans (Japanese style inns) with relaxing hot spring baths and located close to a famous snow resort, Manza Onsen has a long history of being known as a rejuvenating hot spring town.
Situated on a plateau between Mt. Shirane and Mt. Manza, this quaint mountain resort town set in highland lush verdure taps on highly acidic spring waters from Mt. Shirane which are known to provide various health benefits such as improving blood circulation.
Manza Onsen is also known as the "hot spring closest to the stars", where you can soak and relax in a restorative outdoor hot spring accompanied by beautiful stars under the clear winter sky. In contrast, dipping during the day is also recommended as one can enjoy the surrounding white mountainous landscape.
Manza Onsen Tourist Information Center
Access :2401 Hoshimata, Tsumagoi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture
Operating hours :9am to 4pm
How to get there :From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen for about an hour and get off at JR Karuizawa Station. Take the highway bus for approximately 2 hours, then get off at Manza Bus Terminal. From there, another approximately 20-minute walk.
Website :http://www.manzaonsen.gr.jp/introduction/introduction-english.php
