Introduction to Instagrammable Photos of Gunma Prefecture
Gunma Prefecture is home to beautiful landscapes, including Karuizawa, a famous resort area in Japan, Kusatsu Onsen with the highest natural hot spring output in Japan, and the World Heritage Site, Tomioka Silk Mill. Additionally, there are hidden hot springs like Takaragawa Onsen, which attract visitors from around the world. You can enjoy an Instagrammable trip with hot springs, history, and resorts.
Shiraito Falls
Located in Karuizawa, this natural spot features underground water beautifully falling from a rock 3 meters high and 70 meters wide. The new green leaves in spring, the cool breeze and mist in summer, and the colorful autumn leaves make it a stunning location throughout the year.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 23 minutes by bus from Karuizawa Station
Kumoba Pond
Also known as “Swan Lake,” Kumoba Pond reflects beautiful seasonal landscapes on its surface. It is particularly stunning during the new green leaves and autumn foliage, making it a beloved spot in Karuizawa. The approximately 1 km walking path around the pond allows for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the scenery.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Mid-October to Early November
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 30 minutes walk from Karuizawa Station
Karuizawa Ski Resort
With a high rate of sunny days in winter and convenient access from the city, Karuizawa Ski Resort is a great place to visit. Although snowfall is not abundant, the high-altitude slopes offer powder snow, and the artificially maintained slopes with fine snow quality are also popular.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 12 minutes walk from Karuizawa Station
Mount Asama
Mount Asama, an active volcano on the border of Nagano and Gunma prefectures, stands at 2,568 meters. Known for its active volcanic activity over tens of thousands of years, it is one of the most famous active volcanoes globally and a popular tourist destination.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information:Limited public transportation; car required
Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza
Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza is a spot where you can enjoy the historical streets, stylish cafes, and various shopping options. It is a 20-minute walk from Karuizawa Station. Rental bicycles are also available, making it perfect for exploring the area while enjoying the city’s history and charm.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 20 minutes walk from Karuizawa Station
Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
This shopping mall, located near the south exit of Karuizawa Station, is set in a beautiful natural location. With around 200 diverse shops, including famous brand outlets, stylish interior and accessory stores, and outdoor goods shops, you can enjoy shopping all day long while also appreciating the surrounding nature.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 3 minutes walk from Karuizawa Station
Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan’s top hot spring destinations, known for its medicinal benefits and beautiful scenery. The “Yubatake” area is the symbol of Kusatsu Onsen, with 4,000 liters of hot spring water gushing out per minute. The high temperature of the source is cooled by exposing it to the air at Yubatake before being distributed to various facilities.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 25 minutes by bus from Naganoharakusatsuguchi Station
Tomioka Silk Mill
The World Heritage Tomioka Silk Mill was established in 1872 by the Meiji government to modernize Japan’s industry. It used Western-style silk-reeling machines to improve the quality and production of raw silk and train technical leaders. The mill remains preserved in its original state, representing Japan’s industrial modernization history.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 11 minutes walk from Joshu-Tomioka Station
Takasaki Kannon
The Takasaki Byakue Daikannon is a gigantic Kannon statue in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture. Located on a mountain top at an altitude of 190 meters, the statue stands 41.8 meters tall and weighs 5,985 tons. Built in 1936 by an entrepreneur, it was once the world’s largest Kannon statue. It was constructed to commemorate war victims and as a tourist attraction. It receives 50,000 to 60,000 visitors annually. Inside, there are 146 steps and 20 Buddha statues across nine levels. The top floor offers a panoramic view of Takasaki City and the surrounding mountains.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity:Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 30 minutes by bus from Takasaki Station
Takaragawa Onsen
Founded in 1923, the Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku is renowned for its large open-air baths. The four outdoor baths, covering 470 tatami mats, offer a grand bathing experience in the midst of nature. While staying, you can enjoy the sound of the clear Takaragawa River, providing a healing experience for body and mind.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Limited public transportation; car required
