Things To Do
in Takasaki
Takasaki is a city located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its historic temples, traditional festivals, and hot springs. The city is also famous for its Daruma dolls, which are believed to bring good luck.
Takasaki offers a mix of modern amenities and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- "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): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Takasaki City Museum to learn about local history and culture. Don't miss the beautiful exhibits showcasing the city's heritage.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant that offers traditional Japanese cuisine. Afterward, stroll through the Takasaki Park and admire the seasonal flowers.
Wrap up the day by heading to the top of Mt. Haruna for a breathtaking sunset view. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you take in the beautiful landscape.
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Takasaki Jinja shrine. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning architecture are sure to captivate you.
Have lunch at a nearby café, sampling some local specialties. Later, explore the nearby Kannon Temple and its impressive statuary.
Head to a local Izakaya for dinner and try various Japanese tapas. Enjoy the lively environment and perhaps make some new friends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with historical sites like the Takasaki Castle ruins and the Darumaji Temple.
- Beautiful natural scenery, particularly with the presence of Mount Haruna and various parks for outdoor activities.
- Access to traditional Japanese experiences, including tea ceremonies and hot springs.
- Vibrant local festivals, such as the Takasaki Summer Festival, which showcase local traditions and community spirit.
- Strong transport links, making it easy to explore nearby cities and regions.
- Relatively lower cost of living compared to major cities like Tokyo.
- Less international exposure and fewer English-speaking services compared to larger cities.
- Limited entertainment options and nightlife compared to urban centers.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent after hours.
- Can be prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, given its geographical location.
- Fewer shopping and dining options than larger metropolitan areas.
- Some areas may feel isolated or rural for those accustomed to urban living.
Best Activities in Takasaki
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking and enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding area.
Visiting the famous hill with a large Kannon statue and enjoying outdoor picnics.
Relaxing in the natural hot springs and exploring the surrounding nature trails.
Tours
Uncover the best of Takasaki with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Takasaki
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage
Provides a picturesque view of Takasaki city and the surrounding mountains
Boasts beautiful gardens and ponds, providing plenty of photo opportunities, especially during the spring and autumn seasons
Food in Takasaki
Takasaki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional local dish made of pounded rice cakes with various toppings such as sweet soy sauce, sesame, or red bean paste. It can be found at Takasaki Station and local confectionery shops like Miharado.
Must-Try!
As Takasaki is close to Karuizawa, famous for its beer, visitors can taste Karuizawa Kogen Beer, a popular local brew, at various restaurants and izakayas in Takasaki.
A specialty dish featuring locally smoked rainbow trout from Lake Haruna. It's available at restaurants around Lake Haruna and in the city center.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Takasaki better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of local produce, snacks, and street food. Visitors can savor Takasaki's traditional snacks like dango and manju, and discover seasonal specialties.
A vibrant food festival showcasing a variety of local dishes, street food, and regional specialties. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the diverse culinary offerings of Takasaki and Gunma Prefecture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Takasaki, it is important to greet people with a bow, especially when meeting someone for the first time. A slight bow and a polite 'konnichiwa' (hello) or 'ohayo gozaimasu' (good morning) are common greetings.
When entering someone's home, a temple, or certain traditional restaurants, it is customary to remove shoes. It is respectful to take off your shoes before stepping onto tatami mats or wooden floors.
Respect for elders is highly emphasized in Takasaki. It is customary to use honorific titles like 'san' when addressing someone older or in a position of authority.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Takasaki with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Takasaki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Takasaki, Japan. It is not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Takasaki, Japan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment, although credit cards are becoming increasingly popular, especially in larger establishments. It is important to carry sufficient cash as smaller shops and restaurants may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Takasaki, Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is mild and pleasant.
Summer (June to August) in Takasaki is hot and humid, but it's a great time to experience traditional summer festivals and events.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it another ideal time to visit Takasaki.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, but it's a good time to experience winter illuminations, hot springs, and seasonal cuisine.
Takasaki at Night
Hiking in Takasaki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering scenic views and lush forests. It has various trails suitable for different skill levels and is also known for its onsen (hot springs).
An extensive mountain range with numerous hiking trails. The area features beautiful landscapes, including lakes and volcanic landforms, making it ideal for nature lovers.
While primarily known for its hot springs, Kusatsu also offers several hiking trails nearby, with breathtaking scenery and opportunities to explore the natural hot spring areas.
Located a bit further from Takasaki, Mount Takao is a famous hiking spot with well-marked trails, beautiful flora, and a stunning panoramic view from the summit.
A local park that features gentle hiking trails, perfect for families and casual walkers. It offers a relaxing environment with nice scenery.
Aiports
How to reach Takasaki by plane.
Located approximately 70 kilometers east of Tokyo, Narita International Airport is one of the main international airports serving the Greater Tokyo Area.
Also known as Tokyo International Airport, Haneda is located closer to central Tokyo, about 80 kilometers from Takasaki, and is one of the busiest airports in Japan.
This airport primarily handles international traffic and is the hub for many international airlines, located to the east of Tokyo.
Located in Osaka Bay, approximately 380 kilometers southwest of Takasaki, Kansai International Airport serves the Kansai region and offers numerous international flights.
Situated near Nagoya and approximately 320 kilometers from Takasaki, this airport serves international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, primarily ethnic Japanese, representing the largest demographic group in Takasaki.
A significant minority group, including both permanent residents and descendants of Korean workers.
Another notable minority, including students and business professionals from China.
Includes individuals from various other Asian countries, contributing to the cultural diversity.
This group includes expatriates and their families from the United States, Europe, and other Western nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is immensely popular in Takasaki, with many local teams and baseball fields. It’s a common sport played in schools and local leagues.
Soccer has a growing following in Takasaki. The city has youth soccer clubs and local tournaments, reflecting the sport's popularity among children and adults alike.
Basketball is played at various schools and community centers in Takasaki. The sport attracts both players and fans, contributing to the local sports culture.
Takasaki is home to several golf courses, making it a popular recreational activity for residents and visitors who enjoy the sport.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced in Takasaki. Many dojos offer training for both children and adults.
Running is a popular activity in Takasaki, with many parks and running trails. The city hosts local running events and marathons throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Takasaki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish stock and meat-based broths, many restaurants in Takasaki now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and noodle dishes made with plant-based ingredients.
Although gluten-free awareness is still developing in Takasaki, some establishments now provide gluten-free menu options, including rice-based dishes, sashimi, and certain types of sushi. Visitors with gluten intolerances should communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out.