Last Updated: 20/07/2023
If you look a few hours to the side of Japan’s beating heart of Tokyo, you’ll find a well-preserved wilderness where mountains run wild, bearing a tremendous number of things to do in Gunma! The prefecture that holds back the modernity with its far-reaching fields and has a generous share of the Japanese alps proves a popular escape from the nation’s capital. Tone river is the most iconic of its water bodies and ensures many opportunities for fun watersports such as canyoning, rafting, and canoeing.
With hundreds of hot springs like Ikaho onsen throughout its expanse, there are also plenty of things to do in Gunma as far as cold weather treats are concerned. You can shake off the cold with an explosive airsoft war game and mountain bike adventures around the snowy scenery of famous peaks. The prefectural capital of Minakami is the epicenter of all the best things to do in Gunma, offering much in the way of traditional craftwork, horseback riding, go-kart racing, and more! There are also adrenaline-inducing activities for the lovers of the extreme, including bungee jumping and paragliding.
Discover these and countless other fun tours in Gunma, the pride of Japan!
1. The best of Tone river: Canoeing in paradise
Everything great about Minakami town stems from its angelic Tone river. Take up the most fantastic canoeing and Minakami rafting therein, entailing white pebbled shores, cute banana boats, and a seascape so clear you can see the entirety of the seabed!
Experience the Great Nature of Lake Oku-Tone on a Half-Day Canoeing Tour (Family-friendly Course) *Availability depends on season
Minakami, Gunma
Take a Leisurely Canoeing Tour on Lake Kusaki and Relish the Lush Forest Nature Scenery! *Availability depends on season
Midori, Gunma
2. Gunma SUPs: Be one with nature
Standing on a board, rowing between an assembly of green trees into a warm sunset on the waters of Okutone is the perfect way to attain inner peace. You can add a twist to the experience with a SUP yoga variation in lush heavens!
Take a Standup Paddle Boarding Adventure on Dogen Lake (Half-Day Tour) *Availability depends on season
Minakami, Gunma
3. Rafting in World Cup-worthy rivers!
The impressive Tone river has a history of the best rafting, evidenced by its hosting of the 2001 qualifiers for the world cup. After an exhaustive outing in the clutches of the daring white splashes, wind up the day with an onsite barbecue!
Splashdown the Torrents and Feel the Thrill of White River Rafting of Tone River! *Availability depends on season
Minakami, Gunma
4. Conquer mother nature with Canyoning rafting
Gunma’s canyons are not just eye pleasers; they form exciting waterways for the incredible rafting down the throat of a beautiful gorge. You’ll be privy to hidden oases of wonder within the breathtaking Oze national park and more!
Slide Down the Natural Water Slides and Explore the Nature with a Guided Canyoning Tour in Minakami
Minakami, Gunma
5. Tearing apart the greenery on an ATV tour
An all-terrain vehicle is the answer to all questions posed by the jugged Oze landscape of Gunma. Explore the scenes of beautiful valleys, plains, and slopes on a fun-filled buggy experience that’ll swap out worry with bliss!
Enjoy the Superb View and Feel the Wind in an Exhilarating 4-Wheel Buggy Tour *Availability depends on season
Minakami, Gunma
6. MTB adventures in the beauty of the Japanese alps
If your fitness has been taking a dip, an MTB tour around the snowy Japanese alps is the perfect way to usher it back. Breeze through the fresh outdoors on the slopes of an autumn-colored mountains and greenery sceneries!
Half-Day Mountain Bike Tour: Relish the Beautiful Rich Nature and the Scenery of Alps
Minakami, Gunma
7. Make best friends with a Minakami horse
Command the reins of a gorgeous horse, and tread lightly on serene paths and foothills around Minakami. Share a journey into the wilderness with man’s most trusted travel alley. Lessons are available for first-timers!
8. Gunma Go-karting: Life on the fast lane!
Complete with white-checkered flags and beautiful asphalt courses, Gunma’s capital city of Maebashi is home to the country’s most treasured go-karting! Make good on your seemingly out-of-reach video game dreams on the tarmac!
9. The best of Numata through Paragliding
Do you believe you can fly? You need no faith to pull it off, only the courage and desire to take to the beautiful skies over the jaw-dropping waterfall basin of Numata. The autumn foliage that dominates in fall is the best thing you’ll ever see!
10. Pottery workshops transforming earth to beauty
Are you fascinated by the pottery magic that turns ordinary clay into something more? Then you’ll love pottery workshops in Gunma. Try your hand at the modern electric wheel and traditional kneading methods!
Learn How to Make Bowls and Dishes Using an Electric Pottery Wheel
Fujioka, Gunma
Make Your Clay Pottery Bowl and Cup Using an Electric Wheel in Fujioka
Fujioka, Gunma
11. Lovely creations at arts and crafts workshops
Does your passion lie in forging glamorous ceramics? Or are you more of a pottery or dyeing person? Gunma arts and crafts workshops avail all sorts of handcrafting artistry to fit everyone’s interest.
Learn the Dyeing Techniques and Make a T-Shirt with Your Favorite Color and Patterns
Minakami, Gunma
Practice Pattern Weaving with a Traditional Hand-Weaving Experience in Gunma! (Beginner-Friendly Course)
Kiryu, Gunma
Gunma's charm lies not just in its breathtaking landscapes, but also in the diverse activities that allow travelers to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of the region. From molding clay into art and navigating the thrilling waters of its rivers to gliding on SUPs or traversing terrains on ATVs, Gunma promises an unforgettable adventure for all. As you chart your itinerary, let these experiences guide your journey, ensuring every moment in Gunma is as enriching as it is exhilarating. Happy travels, and let Gunma's wonders be the backdrop to your next adventure tale!
QWhat is the best time of year to visit Gunma for these activities?
ASpring and autumn are ideal for outdoor activities in Gunma, offering pleasant weather. However, summer can be great for water-based activities like rafting and SUP.
QDo I need prior experience for canyon and river rafting?
ANo, most rafting tours in Gunma cater to beginners, with experienced guides ensuring safety and guidance.
QCan children participate in these activities?
AWhile activities like pottery are suitable for children, others, especially water sports, often have age restrictions. Always check with the provider beforehand.
QAre safety measures in place for ATV tours?
AAbsolutely. ATV tour operators prioritize safety with helmets, safety briefings, and guided tours to ensure a safe experience.
QAre there any nearby attractions or places to eat after these activities?
AYes, Gunma boasts a variety of local eateries and attractions. After your activity, explore local restaurants for regional specialties and visit nearby attractions to enhance your trip.