Meet people in Nakanojōmachi

Located in the Shima Onsen area, this cafe is housed in a renovated traditional building that overlooks the river. It offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with views of the mountain stream, making it a popular spot for both locals and travelers to pause during their explorations. The interior features warm wood tones and comfortable seating, ideal for quiet conversation or reading. It serves as a natural meeting point for those exploring the hot spring district, providing a welcoming environment to rest and observe the local pace of life.

Try their signature coffee and homemade sweets while enjoying the river view.

Shima Onsen is a collection of historic hot spring inns tucked away in a deep mountain valley. Known for its legendary 'four thousand illnesses' healing waters, the area features traditional wooden architecture, including the iconic Sekizenkan ryokan, which is said to have inspired famous animated films. Visitors can walk along the crystal-clear Shima River, visit the vibrant blue Okushima Lake, and experience the slow pace of life that defines this remote retreat. The area is perfect for those looking to unwind in nature while appreciating the architectural history of Japan's oldest hot spring towns.

Visit the red bridge near the historic inns for the best photography opportunities.

The Nakanojo Biennale utilizes the town's diverse landscape as a canvas for contemporary art. Installations are scattered across abandoned schools, traditional houses, and outdoor forest clearings, creating a scavenger-hunt style experience for visitors. By repurposing rural infrastructure, the festival encourages a dialogue between the past and the present. Walking through these sites allows visitors to see the town through the eyes of artists who have lived and worked within the local community, highlighting the beauty of everyday rural life in Japan.

Check the official map to plan a route, as sites are spread across a wide area.

The Tsumagoi Panorama Line is a sprawling network of roads that wind through vast cabbage fields and rolling highlands. Offering breathtaking views of Mount Asama and the surrounding peaks, this route is a favorite for cyclists and drivers alike. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, from vibrant green summer crops to the golden hues of autumn. It is a place of immense scale and quiet, providing a stark contrast to the dense urban centers of Japan and offering a sense of freedom and openness.

Rent a car or bicycle to fully appreciate the vastness of the plateau.

Kuni is a secluded, mountainous area within Nakanojōmachi known for its traditional farming practices and preserved landscapes. It offers a glimpse into the authentic rural lifestyle of the Gunma highlands, characterized by terraced fields, dense cedar forests, and small, tight-knit hamlets. Visitors come here to hike, participate in agricultural experiences, and enjoy the silence of the mountains. It is a place where the connection to the land is palpable, and the local community maintains a lifestyle that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain is hilly and largely unpaved.

This museum preserves the cultural heritage of Nakanojōmachi, housing artifacts that detail the town's agricultural history, traditional crafts, and the development of its hot spring culture. Through displays of ancient tools, clothing, and historical documents, visitors can understand how the town evolved within the mountainous terrain of Gunma. The museum serves as a foundation for understanding the local identity, providing context for the contemporary art and rural traditions that define the town today. It is a quiet, informative space for those interested in Japanese regional history.

Look for the exhibits on local silk production, which was once a major industry.