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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Minakami sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Gunma prefecture lies the picturesque town of Minakami, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
With its crystal-clear rivers, lush greenery, and breathtaking cliffs, the town is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
From thrilling whitewater rafting to peaceful forest walks, there is an adventure for everyone in this Japanese paradise.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Minakami:
1. Takaragawa Onsen
A traditional Japanese onsen (hot springs) resort located in Minakami, Japan.
What to see or do: Relax in one of the seven natural hot springs that are nestled beside the Takaragawa River. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and rafting in the nearby mountains.
Don’t miss: The “rotenburo” or outdoor baths, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river. The milky white water of the hot springs is said to have healing properties, making it the ultimate relaxation experience.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Takaragawa Onsen during the colder months (December to February) when the landscape is covered in snow, making it a picturesque wonderland.
Make sure to bring warm clothing, as the onsen is located in a mountainous region and can get chilly in the evenings.
Additionally, make reservations in advance, as this is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
2. Tanigawa-dake
Tanigawa-dake is a 1,977 meter tall volcanic mountain in the Gunma prefecture of Japan, known for its stunning natural beauty and challenging hiking trails.
What to see or do: Hiking is the main activity at Tanigawa-dake, with trails ranging from beginner-friendly to difficult. The mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including waterfalls, rivers, and forests.
During the winter, Tanigawa-dake is also popular for skiing and snowboarding.
Don’t miss: The Tanigawa-dake Ropeway, which takes visitors up to 1,320 meters in just 7 minutes, offering panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding area.
The nearby Minakami Onsen hot springs are also a must-visit for those looking to relax and rejuvenate after a day of hiking.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the weather forecast before embarking on any hikes, as conditions can quickly change.
It is also recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey, as there are limited food and drink options on the mountain.
Additionally, it is important to note that hiking trails may close during the winter months due to inclement weather.
3. Oana Gorge
Oana Gorge is a stunning natural attraction located in the town of Minakami, Japan. It is a narrow gorge carved by the Oana River, and is surrounded by lush forests and towering cliffs.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike along the well-maintained trail that runs alongside the river and enjoy breathtaking views of the gorge. The trail also passes several waterfalls, including the beautiful Oana Waterfall.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the gorge in its full autumnal glory when the leaves change color and the surrounding forest becomes a sea of red, orange, and yellow hues.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trail can be steep and slick in certain areas.
It is also recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to fully appreciate the serene beauty of the gorge.
4. Minakami Dam
Minakami Dam is a concrete gravity dam built over the Tone River in the town of Minakami in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll on the dam’s pedestrian walkway to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests and crystal-clear waters of the Tone River.
Don’t miss: A must-see is the spectacular view of the dam lit up in the evening, presenting an enchanting sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: For thrill-seekers, there are various water sports activities available at the dam’s reservoir such as rafting, kayaking and canyoning. However, note that such activities require advanced booking and may not be suitable for beginners.
5. Lake Okutone
Lake Okutone is a picturesque mountain lake located in Minakami, in the Gunma prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Lake Okutone can enjoy hiking around the lake, fishing, taking a boat tour of the lake, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The lake is also a popular spot for camping during the warmer months.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the stunning views of Mount Tanigawa from the lake.
The lake is also surrounded by beautiful forests, which offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to visit Lake Okutone, it’s recommended to bring your own food and snacks as there are limited dining options in the area.
Additionally, be prepared for cooler temperatures as the lake is located at a higher elevation. Finally, it’s recommended to visit the lake during the fall season when the autumn foliage is at its peak.
6. Sarugakyo Onsen
A traditional hot spring town located in Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Soak in the natural hot springs, enjoy the scenic views of the gorge, go rafting or kayaking on the nearby Tone River, experience traditional Japanese culture at the Ryokans and enjoy the local cuisine.
Don’t miss: A soak in one of the open-air baths overlooking the river and a visit to the nearby Tanigawadake Ropeway for a scenic mountain view.
Insider travel tips: The town is less crowded during weekdays. Some Ryokans provide shuttle services from the train station.
For a unique experience, try the outdoor footbath in the winter with the snow around your feet.
7. Shibukawa Skyland Park
Shibukawa Skyland Park is a mountain park located in Minakami, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the observation deck, or take a ride on the Sky Lift, which offers stunning views of the changing seasons.
Don’t miss: The Sky Walk, a suspension bridge that stretches over 220 meters and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys below.
Additionally, visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails and enjoy a picnic among the beautiful natural scenery.
Insider travel tips: – Visiting during the autumn months will offer incredible views of the changing leaves.
8. Minakami Kogen Ski Resort
Minakami Kogen Ski Resort is a popular skiing destination located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports on the resort’s well-maintained slopes. The resort features a variety of courses for all levels of skiers, from beginner to advanced.
In addition to skiing, visitors can relax in the resort’s hot springs and enjoy the beautiful mountain views.
Don’t miss: One of the unique features of Minakami Kogen Ski Resort is the “Snow Area,” which is a designated area for playing in the snow and building snowman.
Visitors should also try the Japanese-style breakfast and relax in the hot springs after a long day of skiing.
Insider travel tips: For the best skiing conditions, it’s recommended to visit the resort during January or February. Visitors should also consider purchasing a multi-day lift pass to save money.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly on the slopes.
9. Tsukiyono Vidro Park
Tsukiyono Vidro Park is a glass art museum and park located in Minakami, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various glass artworks created by both domestic and international glass artists. The park offers hands-on experiences where visitors can make their own glass art under the guidance of skilled instructors.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the outdoor garden area which features beautiful glass installations amongst the natural landscape.
Additionally, the on-site restaurant offers a unique dining experience where visitors can enjoy their meal while surrounded by stunning glass art.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check out the gift shop where you can purchase beautiful glass art souvenirs. Also, arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure availability for the hands-on glass-making experience.
10. Minakami Houdaigi Ski Resort
Minakami Houdaigi Ski Resort is a popular ski and snowboarding resort located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The resort has 12 courses and 9 lifts, catering to a range of skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing in the winter season.
The resort also offers a kids’ park, snow escalator, and a ski school for those who are new to winter sports.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Minakami Houdaigi Ski Resort is its breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, including a café, restaurant, and a food court.
Insider travel tips: For those who want to avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit on weekdays. Visitors can also enjoy discounted lift tickets by purchasing them in advance or through hotel packages.
Additionally, staying in an on-site hotel is convenient and allows for easy access to the slopes.
11. Fujiwara Heritage Park
Fujiwara Heritage Park is a tourist attraction that offers visitors the chance to experience traditional Japanese culture and art.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a collection of 18th-century buildings, including a samurai house, a tea house, and a shrine. They can also participate in traditional Japanese activities like tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and pottery-making workshops.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the park’s beautiful Japanese gardens, which include a pond, a waterfall, and a cherry blossom grove.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit Fujiwara Heritage Park in the morning or on a weekday.
12. Canyons Minakami
What to see or do: Explore the canyons of Minakami through a variety of activities including jumping off cliffs, sliding down natural water slides, and swimming in crystal clear pools.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the tour is the 15-meter high waterfall you can rappel down.
Insider travel tips: Bring a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes. It’s recommended to wear water shoes or old sneakers for better grip.
Make sure to book in advance and check the weather forecast before you go.
13. Mizuhiki Crafts Studio
Mizuhiki Crafts Studio is a workshop that specializes in making traditional Japanese Mizuhiki art pieces.
What to see or do: Visitors can participate in a workshop guided by a Mizuhiki art specialist and learn to make Mizuhiki art pieces themselves.
The workshop typically lasts for about an hour and includes all the necessary materials to create a unique piece of Mizuhiki art.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Mizuhiki Crafts Studio is the opportunity to see and appreciate the intricate and delicate Mizuhiki art pieces created by expert craftsmen.
The art pieces are displayed throughout the studio, showcasing the variety of colors, shapes, and sizes that Mizuhiki art offers.
Insider travel tips:
14. Hoshi Onsen Chojukan
A traditional Japanese hot spring inn nestled in the mountains of Minakami.
What to see or do: Enjoy the healing hot springs baths, relax in the comfortable Japanese-style rooms, and savor delicious, locally sourced cuisine.
Don’t miss: Taking a stroll through the tranquil forest surrounding the inn and watching the stars shine brightly in the clear night sky.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try the mellowness of the natural hot springs fed from the hot spring source points inside the inn and the mixed bath reserved exclusively for women.
Additionally, ask the staff about nearby hiking trails and outdoor activities in the area.
15. Minakami Onsen
Minakami Onsen is a hot spring resort town located in the northern part of Gunma Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Relax in one of the numerous outdoor hot springs or “rotenburo” scattered throughout the town.
Don’t miss: Trying out the local delicacy called “kusa mochi,” a sweet rice cake with a light and refreshing taste.
Insider travel tips: If you are interested in skiing or snowboarding, make sure to visit during the winter months when the nearby ski resorts are in full swing.