Looking for Recommendations for a 2-Night, 3-Day Trip to Gunma Prefecture!
Itinerary and Preferences
So, you’re planning a 2-night, 3-day trip to Gunma Prefecture? That’s awesome! I actually did a similar trip last year, and let me tell you, Gunma
is such a gem. It’s got this perfect mix of nature, hot springs, and quirky activities that make it so much fun. Since you’re arriving in the early afternoon, Kusatsu Onsen is a solid choice for your first stop. The town has this charming, old-world vibe, and the hot springs are chef’s kiss. But I totally get that your partner is more into activities—mine is the same way! He’d rather be zip-lining or go-karting than wandering through a castle (though Lockhart Castle is pretty cool, just saying). One thing I’d recommend is checking out Minakami. It’s an adventure hub with tons of activities like rafting, canyoning, and even bungee jumping. My partner and I tried rafting there, and it was such a blast—even though I screamed the entire time and accidentally dropped my paddle in the river. Oops. If you’re into something a little less adrenaline-pumping, there’s also Haruna Shrine, which is serene and beautiful, and you can take a short hike around the area. Plus, the drive there is stunning, especially if you go during autumn.
Transportation Advice
Okay, let’s talk transportation. Gunma is pretty spread out, so getting around can be a bit tricky if you’re relying solely on trains. We ended up renting a car, and honestly, it was the best decision. It gave us so much flexibility to explore at our own pace, and the roads are really well-maintained. Plus, driving through the mountains with the windows down, blasting music, and snacking on way too many rice crackers? Iconic. If you’re not comfortable driving, though, the train system is decent, especially if you’re sticking to major spots like Kusatsu Onsen or Takasaki. Just be prepared for some longer travel times between destinations. And if you’re coming from Tokyo, the highway bus is another option—it’s affordable and drops you off right in the heart of Kusatsu.
Accommodation Suggestions
Now, for accommodations, I’d say staying in a ryokan is a must, especially in Kusatsu. We stayed at Saino Kawara, and it was such a treat. The rooms were cozy, the food was incredible (seriously, the kaiseki dinner was a work of art), and the onsen was heavenly. Pro tip: If you’re not used to sleeping on futons, your back might hate you the next morning, but it’s all part of the experience, right? If you’re looking for something more activity-focused, Minakami has some great lodges and guesthouses that cater to adventure travelers. We stayed at Canyons, which is super laid-back and has a fun, communal vibe. They even helped us book our rafting tour, which was super convenient. As for whether to stay in one place or move around, I’d recommend picking a base and doing day trips. It saves you the hassle of lugging your stuff around, and you can really settle into the rhythm of the area. Kusatsu is a great base if you want to relax, while Minakami is perfect if you’re all about the thrills.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, Gunma surprised me in the best way. It’s not as flashy as Tokyo or Kyoto, but it’s got so much heart and so many hidden treasures. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring, screaming your lungs out on a raft, or just enjoying the quiet beauty of the mountains, it’s a place that stays with you. Oh, and one last thing—don’t forget to try the local specialty, yaki-manju (grilled sweet buns). I may or may not have eaten six in one sitting. No regrets. So, what about you? Have you been to Gunma before? Any favorite spots or tips to share? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!
