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Minakami Town

Highlights of Minakami Town

Minakami Town offers a captivating urban escape, just an hour from Tokyo.

It is known for stunning landscapes and thrilling activities. Many visitors visit to enjoy canyoning & rafting in the summer, skiing & snowboarding in the winter, or hiking during the picturesque spring and autumn.

Cultural activities are also popular. For example at Takumi no Sato, visitors can try making  traditional washi paper or paint Japanese masks.

Boasting 18 hot spring sources, Minakami is also a well known hot spring destination which can provide the perfect relaxation at the end of a day. And when it’s time to rest, you can chill out in one of Minakami’s ryokans, from charming budget-friendly options to luxurious retreats.

Traveling from Tokyo to Minakami is easy. Hop on the Joetsu Shinkansen for a quick train ride to Jomokogen station (around 1 hour), or take a leisurely drive by car (about 2 hours and 30 minutes).

Visit Minakami to recharge yourself in nature, explore local culture, and enjoy Japan.

Access

From Tokyo to Minakami (Jomo Kogen station)

From Airports

Main Stations

Videos of Minakami Town

Sakura and snow mountains

Minakami Spring & Summer

Minakami Autumn

Minakami winter with family

Things to DO in Minakami Town

Winter Sports

Winter in Minakami, Japan, is a hub for snow sports enthusiasts. Skiing and snowboarding have long been favorites, with diverse slopes for all skill levels. Air boarding, an exciting new trend where you can enjoy sliding down slopes on inflatable sleds, is also gaining popularity. The snowy paradise of Minakami has it all, ensuring an unforgettable winter experience.

Summer Activities

Discover the heart-pounding adventures awaiting you in Minakami. Raft through exhilarating rapids, glide down natural waterslides and take a daring leap with bungee jumping—all amidst the stunning beauty of Japan's Gunma Prefecture. Join us for an exciting Japanese summer.

Hot springs

Amidst the breathtaking beauty, Minakami is a haven for relaxation-seekers, with its 18 different onsen sources, including popular gems such as Sarugakyo Onsen, Takaragawa Onsen, Minakami Onsen, Tanigawa Onsen, and Kamimoku Onsen. Immerse in these mineral-rich therapeutic waters to unwind your body and mind.

Hiking

Diverse hiking trails for all levels, from tranquil walks to challenging adventures. Explore renowned locations like the iconic Tanigawa-dake, Lake Akayako, the hidden gem of Ichinokurasawa, the breathtaking Tenjin Pass, and the scenic Suwakyo. (Minakami is registered as a UNESCO Eco Park)

Crafts

Learn creative traditions in Minakami. Learn washi paper making, paint Japanese masks, try indigo dyeing and more at Takumi-no-sato, and shape glassware at Tsukiyono Vidro Park. Leave with treasured handmade mementos and unforgettable memories.

MAX Minakami

Outdoor activities in Winter, Spring, Summer and Autumn in Minakami

Unleash your spirit of adventure! With 25 years of experience, MAX Minakami in Gunma offers thrilling activities year-round: rafting, canyoning, and SUP in clear waters from spring to autumn, plus snowshoeing and air boarding in winter. Perfect for families and beginners!

Top EVENTS around Minakami town

EATING in Minakami Town

Japanese Food

Minakami boasts various Japanese restaurants, with Soba being a standout favorite. Explore a diverse range of tastes, including Japanese curry and comforting ramen and more. 

Western Food

Discover a variety of flavors, with a special spotlight on grills, succulent steaks, flavorful pasta, mouthwatering pizzas, delicious sandwiches, and charming cafes. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal or a cozy café, Minakami has something for everyone.

Craft Beer

Gunma Minakami Town local draft beer

The region’s pristine water makes it ideal for brewing beer. Sip on Oct One Brewing and Tsukiyono Craft Beer’s AIBA2021 award-winning brews popular with locals and visitors.

Places to STAY in Minakami Town

Hotels (Western style)

From budget-friendly to luxurious, there are many Western-style hotels in Minakami. Enjoy modern amenities, prime locations, and a perfect blend of local hospitality with a Western touch.

Japanese style

As a beloved onsen town, Minakami offers an array of Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), providing an authentic and immersive experience.

KANZAN (Ryokan)

Photo of Onsen (hot spring) at Kanzan Ryokan in Gunma
Kanzan is a luxury inn surrounded by beautiful nature. Limited to only 6 groups a day, Kanzan offers a serene experience. Enjoy seasonal local dishes and relax in a private onsen with a view of Mt. Tanigawa. Spring, summer, autumn, and winter activities are offered nearby. The owner is a Shakuhachi artist, so guests can discover Japan’s culture and music as well as its beauty.

Day trips from Minakami Town

Each of these places are within a day trip away. Click on the image to find out more.

Minakami in the Press etc

CNN Travel
Hot springs: From the most luxurious to the simply historic (link)
National Geographic
A nature-lover’s guide to slow train travel in Japan
(link)
Japan Today
Gunma’s great outdoors—summer fun options at Minakami
(link)
Minakami Town Tourist Office (link)
Minakami Town (Gunma Official) (link)
Minakami Town (JNTO)
(link)
Wikipedia
About Minakami, Gunma Pref. (link)
Wikivoyage
Minakami, Gunma Pref. (link)
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