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.

'Agattan e-bike tour' (on train tracks) in Higashiagatuma Town, Gunma Prefecture

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

Woman riding 'Agattan' 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).

Throwing Star (Shuriken) for a ninja in Higashi-Agatsuma town, Gunma Prefecture.

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

Things to do in Higashi-Agatsuma
- A chat with Higashi-Agatsuma Town tourism

Learn more about this interesting area from a chat we had with locals (the town's tourism office).

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Interview

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)