Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Index
Highlights of Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Higashi-Agatsuma Town in Gunma Prefecture is two hours from Tokyo and is famous for its Ninja history. It offers a serene escape into Japan’s natural beauty, relaxing onsens, and traditional traditions such as its Ninja heritage.
Enjoy the scenic views of the Agatsuma River, which cuts through the town and provides leisurely walks and photo opportunities. It even has a fun Rail Biking activity (2.5km one way) suitable for all ages. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the area around Lake Haruna offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty.
Higashi-Agatsuma is also home to ‘Kayabuki no Sato’, a charming village of thatched-roof houses where you can step back in time and experience the traditional lifestyle of rural Japan. This area is lovely in the autumn when the surrounding trees become vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
To get to Higashi-Agatsuma Town from Tokyo, take the JR Joetsu Shinkansen to Takasaki Station, then transfer to the JR Agatsuma Line, which will take you directly to the town. The journey takes about 2 hours and is on the way to popular onsen destinations. If you are going to Kusatsu Onsen, Shima Onsen, Kawarayu Onsen, and Yanba Dam, Higashi-Agatsuma is an ideal place to stop.
If you’re driving, the closest interchange is the Shibukawa-Ikaho Interchange (IC) on the Kan-Etsu Expressway, offering easy access to the town’s attractions.
Access
From Tokyo
From Airports
Haneda Intl. Airport
Narita Intl. Airport
Main Stations
Videos of Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Hiking in Agatsuma Gorge
Agattan E-bike Rail Experience
Higashi-Agatsuma Official
Iwabitsu Ninja Running Race
Things to DO in Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Agattan (e-bike rail ride)
Fancy riding a e-bike on abandoned rail tracks? Why not sign up for a ride down the old Agatsuma Line by Agatsumakyo gorge and explore the impressive Yamba Dam.
Onsen
There are several small onsen inns (Japanese Ryokans) in Higashi-Agatsuma Town. Some have outdoor hot-springs baths overlooking nature and even waterfalls.
Agatsumakyo Gorge
Walk 2km along the Agatsuma Gorge to see the beautiful seasonal scenery created by the maple, sawtooth oak, and red pine trees.
The best season is spring (April, May) and autumn (November).
The best season is spring (April, May) and autumn (November).
Ninja heritage
Higashi-Agatsuma was the training base for Ninjas in the 16th century. You can find Ninja exhibitions at "Ninpaku Ninja Museum" in Higashi-Agatsuma Town and "Musee" in Nakanojo Town next door.
Michinoeki Agatsumakyo
Why not stop at Michinoeki Agatsumakyo for a break? This new Ninja theme rest area has delicious food and snacks for lunch, an Onsen Bath, an Ashiyu, and a local produce shop as well as a play area for children.
Ninpaku Ninja Museum
Visit the Ninpaku Ninja Museum to see the largest collection of real Ninja weapons and tools in Japan. You can even touch them! Learn how the weapons and tools were used and how Ninjas lived in this area. Also has a popular play area with children
Learn more about places to visit in Higashi-Agatsuma
EATING in Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Japanese Food
There are a few family run restaurants that offer set menu lunches such as Soba, Udon, Yakiniku, Tonkatsu, Ramen and more.
Western Food
There are not many Western-style restaurants in Higashi-Agatsuma Town. However, you can find a restaurant/cafe in ‘Michinoeki Agatsumakyo’. In addition, there are a few places that serve Devil’s Tongue Burger.
Devil's Tongue Burger
The Devils Tongue Burger is a popular local hamburger using Konyaku, a local vegetable which is called ‘The Devil’s Tongue’ in English. Many restaurants offer their own version. (Photo: Michinoeki Agatsumakyo)
Places to STAY in Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Ryokan (Japanese style)
There are a few onsen ryokans in Higashi-Agatsuma. Some with amazing views from the outside baths.
Hotel (Western style)
Most hotels are traditional Japanese inns but Conifer Iwabitsu has western style rooms and as well as western style loghouses to rent.
Holiday rental (Airbnb)
There are a few nice airbnbs around Higashi-Agatsuma.
Top EVENTS around Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Day trips from Higashi-Agatsuma Town
Each of these places are within a day trip away. Click on the image to find out more.
Higashi-Agatsuma Town in the NEWS
ANA Japan Travel Planner
Agatsuma Gorge (link)
Mari-Hiro Architect's Office
Visit to Higashi-Agatsuma Town, Gunma Prefecture (link)
Nearby Tokyo article
Ninja Experience: A Day's Journey to Nindo Mastery in Historic Higashiagatsuma, Gunma (link)
Japan Travel
Mount Iwabitsu (link)
The Mainichi
Bicycle-driven trolleys offer chance to cycle through scenic east Japan valley (link)
