Things To Do
in Shibukawa
Shibukawa is a city located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including hot springs and mountains. The city is also famous for its production of traditional Japanese ceramics.
Shibukawa offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Ikaho Green Bokujo, a scenic farm where you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Don't forget to savor fresh dairy products and local delicacies at the farm café.
Head to Ikaho Onsen for a relaxing soak in the famous hot springs. Explore the charming streets lined with picturesque ryokans and souvenir shops.
Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, experiencing a variety of seasonal dishes. Stroll through the illuminated streets of Ikaho to end your day on a serene note.
Visit the Shibukawa Aquarium to learn about marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits. It's a great place for families and nature enthusiasts.
Explore the nearby Minakami area where you can engage in various outdoor adventures like rafting or hiking. Experience the beauty of nature up close.
Savor dinner at a local izakaya while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Capture the essence of Japanese nightlife and meet locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including temples and shrines.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and hot springs.
- Quiet, peaceful environment, ideal for relaxation.
- Convenient access to outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
- Friendly and welcoming local residents.
- Limited access to international transportation, making travel more challenging.
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
- Economy may be reliant on tourism, which can be seasonal.
Best Activities in Shibukawa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a visit to the famous hot springs and traditional inns in Shima Onsen, known for its therapeutic waters and picturesque surroundings.
Hike or take a scenic drive up Mount Haruna, known for its beautiful crater lake and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Explore the historic stone steps of Ikaho Onsen, lined with traditional shops, eateries, and stunning views of the town below.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shibukawa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shibukawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Mount Haruna and the surrounding area, especially during cherry blossom season.
Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A picturesque spot for capturing the beauty of the stone steps and the surrounding natural scenery.
Food in Shibukawa
Shibukawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular hotpot dish featuring thinly sliced beef or pork, along with a selection of vegetables, all cooked in a flavorful broth. Recommended place to try: Ichiraku Shabu-shabu Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A steamed bun filled with sweet red bean paste, a specialty of the nearby Kusatsu Onsen area. Recommended place to try: Kusatsu Onsen main street vendors.
Grilled buns filled with various fillings such as sweet red bean paste or savory pork. Recommended place to try: Local street food stalls during festivals and events.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shibukawa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample and purchase an assortment of street food here, including yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), takoyaki (octopus balls), and imagawayaki (sweet filled pancakes).
A picturesque market located near Ikaho Onsen, known for its fresh vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of ready-to-eat snacks and food stalls offering regional dishes such as grilled freshwater fish and tempura.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shibukawa, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, rather than shaking hands.
It is a common practice in Japan, including Shibukawa, to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.
Japanese culture places emphasis on personal space, so it's important to be mindful of this and avoid standing too close to others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shibukawa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shibukawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Shibukawa, Japan. In fact, it may be considered rude in some situations. Service charges are usually included in the bill at restaurants and hotels.
In Shibukawa, Japan, cash is the preferred method of payment, and credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Enjoy cherry blossoms and mild weather, but note that it can be busy with tourists.
Experience warm weather, outdoor activities, and local festivals.
Witness the stunning fall foliage and partake in harvest festivals.
Engage in winter sports, visit hot springs, and admire the beautiful snowy landscapes.
Shibukawa at Night
Hiking in Shibukawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking area with scenic views and hot springs. The trails are suitable for various skill levels, making it a popular spot for hikers.
A prominent mountain near Shibukawa offering various trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs. The summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
This park offers well-maintained trails surrounded by nature, perfect for leisurely hikes and family outings. The park is famous for its seasonal flowers.
A serene park with a network of hiking trails ideal for a day trip. It features lush forests and riverside paths, providing a peaceful hiking experience.
Located a bit further from Shibukawa, Mount Akagi offers extensive trails and a diverse range of flora and fauna. It's perfect for more adventurous hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Shibukawa by plane.
Located approximately 75 kilometers east of Tokyo, Narita International Airport is one of Japan's main international airports, handling a large volume of international flights.
Located closer to central Tokyo, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, primarily serving domestic flights but also a significant amount of international traffic.
Situated on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, Kansai International Airport serves the Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe area and is a major international gateway to Western Japan.
Located on an island in Ise Bay, near Nagoya, Chubu Centrair is a key airport serving the central region of Japan, facilitating both international and domestic flights.
Also known as Itami Airport, it's primarily a domestic airport that may handle limited international flights, located closer to the city of Osaka.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Shibukawa, making up most of the population.
Includes various nationalities, primarily workers and families residing in the area.
A significant portion of the population consists of elderly individuals due to Japan's overall aging trend.
Includes residents aged from 15 to 29, representing a smaller segment of the overall population.
Represents the demographic group aged 0-14 years, a minority in comparison to other age groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a popular sport in Shibukawa, with many local teams and youth leagues participating in competitions.
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Shibukawa, with numerous local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.
The city's parks and scenic routes attract many residents and visitors for jogging and running as a popular recreational activity.
Martial arts such as Judo and Karate are widely practiced, with several dojos in the area offering classes for all ages.
Shibukawa features beautiful golf courses that attract both locals and tourists, making golf a favored pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shibukawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often features meat or fish, many restaurants in Shibukawa are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan preferences. It’s advisable to communicate dietary restrictions in advance when dining out.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable alternatives at select restaurants and cafes, particularly those with a focus on international or health-conscious menus. However, it’s recommended to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods.