Things To Do
in Higashiagatsuma

Higashiagatsuma is a picturesque town located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, known for its stunning natural beauty and traditional Japanese culture. Nestled in the mountains, it offers visitors a tranquil escape with hot springs and scenic landscapes. The area is rich in history, featuring shrines and temples that reflect its cultural heritage.

With its charming local community and outdoor activities, Higashiagatsuma provides a unique experience for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the famous Shima Onsen, where you can soak in the hot springs and enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast in a ryokan.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Ikaho Green Bokujo, a family-friendly farm where you can interact with animals, enjoy seasonal fruits, and take part in various outdoor activities.

evening
:

Enjoy a local dinner at a traditional izakaya, sampling Gunma's famous sake, and take a leisurely evening stroll through the town to soak in the night atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Local Culture and Scenic Views
morning
:

Visit the historic Kishi Shrine, where you can admire the architecture and learn about local legends.

afternoon
:

Explore the scenic hiking trails around Mount Agatsuma, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby viewpoint for stargazing.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a Restaurant$10-30
Coffee$3-5
🚍Bus Fare$2-5
🏨Hotel Night$70-150
🍜Bowl of Ramen$8-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences with traditional Japanese practices.
  • Relaxing hot springs for rejuvenation.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may have fewer options than urban areas.
  • Language barrier can be challenging for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Higashiagatsuma

Visit one of these nice places.

Kishi Shrine

A historic shrine surrounded by beautiful nature, perfect for capturing traditional architecture and serene landscapes.

Mount Agatsuma Viewpoint

Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.

Shima Onsen

A picturesque hot spring village with charming wooden buildings, ideal for capturing the essence of rural Japan.

Culinary Guide

Food in Higashiagatsuma

Higashiagatsuma offers a delightful array of local culinary experiences that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage and traditional cooking methods.

Higashiagatsuma Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yaki Manju

Grilled rice dumplings filled with sweet red bean paste, often enjoyed as a snack.

Must-Try!

Koshihikari Rice

Locally grown rice known for its exceptional flavor and texture, often served with meals.

Gunma Soba

Buckwheat noodles served cold or hot, typically accompanied by dipping sauce or broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Higashiagatsuma Farmers Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh local produce, homemade snacks, and artisanal goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the town offering delicious local snacks like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls).

Climate Guide

Weather

Higashiagatsuma experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Always be respectful when visiting shrines or temples, including bowing before entering.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove your shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments.

Quietness in Public Transport

Maintain a low volume when using public transportation, as silence is valued in these settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Higashiagatsuma is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, basic precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of your surroundings. It’s also advisable to have travel insurance that covers outdoor activities if you plan to hike or engage in sports.

Tipping in Higashiagatsuma

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; excellent service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry yen for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming cherry blossoms, making it a great time for outdoor explorations.

Summer

Warm and humid, perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, ideal for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold with snowfall; perfect for winter activities and enjoying the hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Higashiagatsuma at Night

Higashiagatsuma's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities, with a few izakayas and bars where you can enjoy local sake and beer. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a focus on socializing over drinks rather than loud party scenes. For a unique experience, some ryokans offer evening events featuring traditional music or storytelling.

Hiking in Higashiagatsuma

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kusatsu National Park Trails

Offering various trails with scenic views, this area is known for its beautiful landscapes and natural hot springs.

Mount Agatsuma Trail

A popular hiking trail that provides a moderate challenge and rewards hikers with stunning views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Higashiagatsuma by plane.

Matsumoto Airport

Approximately 100 km from Higashiagatsuma, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is a gateway for travelers heading to the Japan Alps.

Getting Around

Walkability

Higashiagatsuma is a small town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are generally available, and the pace of life is relaxed, encouraging visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town has a close-knit community with a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, many of whom are engaged in agriculture and tourism.

Tourists

Visitors often come for the hot springs, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, particularly during peak seasons such as spring and autumn.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A beloved sport in Japan, with local teams and parks where residents enjoy playing and watching games.

Skiing

In winter, nearby ski resorts attract visitors for skiing and snowboarding, taking advantage of the region's snowfall.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Higashiagatsuma is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses that connect various parts of the town and nearby areas. However, services may be limited during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Higashiagatsuma.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Japanese cuisine is often seafood-based, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in larger towns.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, rice and certain dishes can be adapted upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Higashiagatsuma are accessible, with local clinics and hospitals available for basic medical needs. Travelers should ensure they have health insurance that covers international care. In case of emergencies, larger hospitals in neighboring cities can provide advanced medical services.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide