2025 Nakanojo Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

"Old Taishi Station" looks like an archaeological site, but it is a former station! 🚃 Iron ore was once mined here, so it opened as a station for loading iron ore. It was built about 80 years ago, but it's amazing that it still exists today. 🥹 It was a little inconvenient because it was so far back that the signal was no longer available. 💧 There were no tourists when I went. I was happy to feel the history in a place with clean air. Please visit! #0yentravelFebruary2025 #TaishiStation

[Shima Onsen, Gunma] Sekizenkan 4236 Shima-ko, Nakanojo-cho, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Japan's oldest hot spring inn building and a long-established inn designated as an important cultural property "Sekizenkan" stands on the banks of the Shinyu River A collaboration between Sekizenkan and the bright red Keiun Bridge across from the main building The main building, which is said to be the oldest wooden hot spring inn building in Japan, is also designated as an important cultural property of Gunma Prefecture. Japan's oldest bathhouse building is said to be one of the models for "Spirited Away". The beauty of the day and night in all four seasons is a must-see! At night, the lit-up appearance is different from the daytime, and it is even more fantastic and beautiful😍. During the day, the contrast between the blue sky and the red bridge stands out, making the building stand out. The colorful leaves in front of the bridge turn red in the fall and green in the spring, making it a popular photo spot. #domestictrip #Gunma #GunmaTourism #GunmaTrip #ShimanOnsen #Sekizenkan #PhotoSpot #PhotoSpot #HotSpring #NakanojoTown #AutumnFoliage #AutumnFoliageSpot

The world of autumn roses created by professional gardeners / The Autumn Rose Garden Fair is on until October 20th (Sun)~🌹✨ A rare garden in Japan where the main focus is the "garden". There are so many photogenic spots that it's hard to decide where to take photos. The flowers you can enjoy vary depending on the season, but this time the autumn roses were in full bloom🌹 The rose garden was filled with a noble fragrance, and there was also a spot where you could enjoy tea while enjoying that scent. Even though it's a garden, it's 12 hectares, so it's quite large and the flowers you can enjoy vary depending on the area, so it's a treasure trove of photogenic spots. 𝕚𝕟𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕞𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -𖤣𖥧𖥣𖡡𖥧𖤣 📍#NakanojoGardens 　＠nakanojo_gardens 👉A stroll-style garden where the "garden" is the main feature 🌍2411 Orita, Nakanojo-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture 🅿️Yes ▼Opening hours March to November 9:00 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:30) December to February 9:00 to 16:00 (last entry at 15:30) ▼Closed on Thursdays, days after public holidays, and New Year's holidays 💰Admission fee Adults (high school students and above) 800 yen Elementary and junior high school students 400 yen Preschoolers Free 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕗𝕚𝕝𝕖- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -𖤣𖥧𖥣𖡡𖥧𖤣 I'm Mariko, a weekend traveler. 👉@mariko000001 My goal is to travel to all 47 prefectures and post about them. We basically travel by car, and we're a crazy couple who don't mind driving for about 7 hours. Of course, I want to shine a spotlight on famous places, but also on lesser known places💡 If you're happy to support me🧡, I'd be happy if you followed me🥹🫰 Comments and requests are very welcome, so I'm waiting for you✨ I'll do my best every day to help you on your travels, even if just a little🥰 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -𖤣𖥧𖥣𖡡𖥧𖤣 #GunmaPrefecture#Nakanojo#NakanojoTown#Rose#RoseGarden #RoseGarden#LifeWithRose#Roses

[Gunma] ♨️Shima Onsen, a secret hot spring known only to those in the know *The information listed is from the time of posting. Please check the store's website/SNS for the latest business status. ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈✈︎ 《One word》 I went there in March and it was great Featured on Shima Onsen‼ ️ I didn't know about it at first either, but my mother told me that Shima Onsen was good, so I went there for the first time this time✨ It takes about 4 hours by direct bus from Tokyo Station🚌 It takes a while, but you're just riding the whole time, so it wasn't that bad🙂 The water is so blue that it's called Shima Blue, and there's a hot spring town along the Shima River, and it has a retro atmosphere that was emotional💭 There are also great scenic spots, the inn was really good, and of course there was a stylish cafe☝️ I think it's the perfect place for a 1-night, 2-day mini trip, so I hope you'll go💨 The lake was really blue😱 ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈✈︎ Thank you for subscribing📚 Original outing magazine " 𝐩𝐞𝐬𝐨 』 List price [❤️Your like] If you would like to subscribe, [Follow] ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈✈︎ #Gunma Tourism #Shima Onsen #Shima Onsen Cafe #Shima Onsen Toshimaya #Sekizenkan #Okushima Lake Dam #Shima Blue #Kanto Trip #Kanto Onsen #Onsen #Gunma #Trip

An open-air cafe located right next to the "Koketsu" (potholes), a designated natural monument of the prefecture. An open terrace with the sound of the river, greenery full of negative ions, and autumn leaves that look like a painting!! In addition to the popular homemade cheesecake and pizza toast, you can also order cafe and ice cream. Parking available. 📍Shiman 3497, Nakanojo-cho, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture

Not only was the dinner delicious, but the quantity and speed of the food served were just right, so it was very good😇 ⁡ I always eat quickly, so sometimes I have to wait for the next dish to come... (Of course, the inn is not bad, it's just that we eat so quickly because the food is so delicious.) ⁡ Sekizenkan brought the food one after another according to the speed, and they served rice with the sukiyaki, so I was very grateful for the hospitality...!!! I was also captivated here🫠 ⁡ The sashimi was served in two types, Tosa soy sauce and roasted sake? It was my first time to eat it with sake, but it seemed to enhance the flavor of the fish, so it was delicious!!! For breakfast, you can choose one of four types of smoothies🍹 ⁡ When you arrive at the venue in the morning, the first thing you will have is a smoothie. I think I had an apple and carrot smoothie...🍎🥕 I remember they also had komatsuna and koji smoothies😇(I thought I had written it down, but it's gone now, sadly...I don't have any photos of the smoothies for some reason...🥹) ⁡ There were a lot of vegetables and a wide variety of items, so I was excited from the morning!!! #hotspring #hotspringhotel #shimaonsen #gunmatourism #gunma #sekizenkan

A lounge available to guests staying at Sekizenkan's Kashotei and Sanso ☕️ ⁡ Sanso Lounge "Izutsu" 🍃 This lounge opened in 2021 and offers all-you-can-drink medicinal tea, coffee, black tea, etc. 🍵 ⁡ They also have lotus biscuits, which I personally love, so I enjoyed them with my tea!!! ⁡ There is medicinal tea and coffee in the rooms, but I recommend relaxing in this lounge after a bath 😇 ⁡ ■Business hours 14:30-22:00, 8:00-10:00 the next morning ⁡ #Hot spring #Hot spring inn #Lounge #Sekizenkan #Gunma #Gunma sightseeing

The oldest hot spring inn in Japan, said to have been the model for "Spirited Away" ♨️ Staying at "Shima Onsen Sekizenkan" in Gunma Prefecture ♪ The main building of Sekizenkan was built in 1691 and is said to be the oldest wooden hot spring inn in Japan. The main building, which has high historical value and is designated as an important cultural property of Gunma Prefecture, is a rare building that still retains the atmosphere of traditional hot spring inns. Shima Onsen is named after the legend that it is a "sacred spring that heals 40,000 illnesses," and it has long been famous for its spring quality as a famous hot spring for gastrointestinal problems. The nostalgic, extraordinary space is overwhelming, as if you have jumped into the world of a movie and traveled back in time ✨ #Open-air bath in guest room #Hot spring inn #Resort hotel #Luxury hotel

#celebratewithtrip What a surprise! Never expected Nakanojo to be so beautiful and tourist friendly. The walk along Shima River is beautiful and relaxing, with many small waterfalls along the river. The color of the water of Shima Gawa River cannot expressed it in words. Because it is amazing blue that can be seen only here. #nakanojo #japan #friendstrip

#celebratewithtrip Kaiseki, or Kaiseki-ryori 懐石, is a traditional style of dining in Japan where a multi-course meal is prepared of fresh seasonal ingredients. Much like the high dining experience in the west, the number of courses can vary from a handful to more than 10. The kaiseki dinner course has been a highlight. The set was some of the best meals of my life. Definitely worth it.

#celebratewithtrip We had an amazing stay at Kashiwaya Ryokan! The three private onsen baths were stunning. Staff were very welcoming. We would definitely stay again! The food, service, and onsen are all of an extremely high quality, but what makes them truly exceptional are the flexibility of the private onsen (you do not need to book specific times). Highly recommended for the stay! #japantrip #couplestrip

Shima Onsen, a famous hot spring resort in Gunma Prefecture, is famous for the inn Sekizenkan, which is said to have been the model for Spirited Away. There are many long-established hot spring inns lined up, and each one has its own bath, so it seems like you can't go wrong! Of course, there are public baths as well. A little further in, there is a dam famous for its Shima Blue color, and a cafe that looks like it came straight out of a Ghibli movie, so this is a hot spring town that can be enjoyed by people who love hot springs, Ghibli, and even people who love emo. If you go by car, there is a place called the Melody Line where the theme song from Spirited Away plays, so if you're interested, why not go and check it out for yourself! #Breathtaking view #Eastern Japan #Hot spring

Nakanojo Gardens in Gunma Prefecture. A soothing spot surrounded by seasonal flowers🌸 I went there in the fall, and the autumn roses were in full bloom and it was so beautiful!! The grounds are spacious and there are lots of flowers. A camera is a must📸 #photogenicspot

I found a very stylish place in Nakanojo, Gunma Prefecture that tickles the feminine heart 🌼 It's a facility filled with flowers called Nakanojo Gardens. There are lots of seasonal flowers in bloom, and autumn roses are in full bloom right now. There were also lots of people with small children. #themepark #breathtakingview

Shima Onsen is one of Gunma Prefecture's famous hot springs. It's not a flashy hot spring town, but the streets have a Showa retro feel. The buildings and signs have a nostalgic atmosphere. I thought it would be interesting to take pictures with a film camera 📸 #HotSpring #SummerShortTrip

Sekizenkan is an inn located in Shima Onsen, Gunma Prefecture. It is said that this was the setting for Spirited Away?! I stayed there, so I would like to introduce the room. It's been a while since I stayed in a room with a large tatami mat, so it was very relaxing. I also had dinner here😊👍 #onsen #stayhome #summertrip

Sekizenkan is an inn located in Shima Onsen, Gunma Prefecture. We had dinner in our room. A kaiseki meal with a menu that incorporates seasonal ingredients. Each dish is carefully handcrafted 😆 It was a moment when I realized there is nothing more luxurious than a meal enjoyed leisurely in my room. #onsen #stayhome #summertrip #gourmettrip

Shima Onsen in Gunma Prefecture. I went to Sekizenkan, an inn that is said to have been the setting for Spirited Away?! ♨️ The inn is retro and has lots of photo spots! The red bridge is a must-see📸 It's lit up from sunset to night, so it's fantastical and beautiful⭐️ #onsen #stayhome #summertrip

I went to the "Sekizenkan Main Building" in Shima Onsen, Gunma! ️ This inn, also known as the setting for Spirited Away, was built in the 4th year of Genroku and is said to be the oldest wooden hot spring inn still standing in Japan. Please come and visit us sometime~ #Gunma#Sekizenkan#Forest bathing#Summer trip

A hot spring town along the Shima River [Gunma Prefecture] Hinatami, Yuzuriha, Shinyu, Yamaguchi, and Onsenguchi districts The Hinatami district is the birthplace of Shima Onsen. The Genroku-no-Yu bath at the Sekizenkan Inn (Shinyu district), designated a cultural property of Gunma Prefecture, is famous. ☺️ There are three public baths and open-air baths. We recommend Kawara-no-Yu. ☺️

#chinatravel Sekizenkan Kanshoutei is a gorgeous, traditional place with a magical ambience! The architecture and experiences range from an old-style Onsen to a modern luxury bathhouse, appealing to anyone who’s looking for a relaxing experience. The surrounding is all about lush greenery with flowing river which makes it a great place to relax and unwind.

#chinatravel If you are into onsen, definitely check out Shima yamaguchikan. It is located right beside a beautiful river and surrounded by lush greenery. You can enjoy the pretty scenery while soaking in onsen as the outdoor bath was facing to the river. It felt like a spot great for escaping the city’s hustle and bustle. The sound of the flowing river was so soothing!

☆Hot Spring Inn in Gunma Prefecture☆ Sekizenkan, said to be the inspiration for Spirited Away, was also used as a filming location for the movie Thermae Romae. You can even soak in the baths used in the movie. Beyond the red bridge... A fantasy world unfolds, resembling a bridge leading to the bathhouse. Constructed in 1691 (Genroku 4), Sekizenkan's main building boasts a history of over 300 years since its opening, and is said to be the oldest surviving hot spring inn in Japan. Why not spend a wonderful time at this inn where you can experience the world of Spirited Away?

Echoes of Edo: My Stay at Sekizenkan Ryokan When people talk about traveling back in time, they usually mean it figuratively. But during my stay at Sekizenkan Ryokan in Shima Onsen, it truly felt like stepping into another world—a quieter, simpler Japan that still lives on in this historic inn. A Ryokan Steeped in History Sekizenkan isn’t just any ryokan—it holds the title of Japan’s oldest existing hot spring inn, with roots going back to 1691. The moment you enter, you can feel the weight of history in every detail: the worn wooden corridors, the dim ambient lighting, and the classic red bridge that has become iconic. It’s said that Sekizenkan even inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. As I wandered through the lantern-lit hallways, it was easy to see why. The place feels almost enchanted. Staying in the Sanso Wing I chose to stay in the Sanso Wing, which is surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle sound of flowing streams. The room was minimalist yet warm—tatami floors, sliding shoji doors, and a view of the tranquil garden. Time slows down here, and that’s exactly the point. There’s the natural beauty of the surroundings and the soothing atmosphere of traditional Japan which makes me feel inner peace. The Onsen: Bathing in Nature Sekizenkan is famous for its natural hot spring baths, and they lived up to the hype. The rotenburo (outdoor bath) was a personal favorite. Sitting in steaming mineral waters while breathing in the crisp mountain air was the perfect way to unwind. The indoor baths, with their retro design and wooden beams, added to the feeling of nostalgia. These aren’t just baths—they’re a chance to reconnect with yourself. The Kaiseki Dining Experience Dinner at Sekizenkan was another highlight. The kaiseki meal was a beautifully presented multi-course dinner featuring local and seasonal ingredients. Each dish—from delicate sashimi to simmered mountain vegetables—reflected the essence of Gunma’s countryside. It wasn’t just food; it was a culinary journey, thoughtfully crafted and paced to encourage mindfulness. Why I’ll Return Sekizenkan isn’t about luxury in the modern sense—it’s about authenticity, history, and peace. It’s for travelers who want to experience Japan’s cultural roots, away from the usual tourist paths. For me, it was more than just a ryokan stay. It was an opportunity to pause, reflect, and soak in the spirit of old Japan—both literally and figuratively. If you ever find yourself longing for a slower, quieter experience, I highly recommend visiting Sekizenkan. Trust me, you won’t forget it.

🏯【Shima Onsen Sekizenkan】Step into a Ghibli-like world. A hot spring inn where history and relaxation intertwine, offering a retreat for the soul. Located in Gunma Prefecture's Shima Onsen, "Sekizenkan" is Japan's oldest wooden hot spring inn, established in 1694 during the Genroku era. With its enchanting architectural beauty and nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of the Ghibli film "Spirited Away," this therapeutic inn continues to rejuvenate both body and mind. ⸻ ✨ A stay that feels like time travel • The main building, constructed in the early Showa era, is a registered cultural property. • The red bridge you cross after passing through a tunnel feels like the entrance to the "Spirited Away" world. • Tatami corridors and retro lighting inside the inn invite you into an extraordinary experience. ⸻ ♨️ Savor the renowned waters of Shima • 100% natural hot spring water, free-flowing. • Shima Onsen, known for its gentle touch on the skin, is also called "the hot spring for digestive health." • The "Genroku no Yu" bath, made of marble, offers a museum-like aesthetic beauty. ⸻ 🍱 Cuisine that nourishes both body and soul • Traditional Japanese kaiseki meals featuring local ingredients. • Dishes are delicately flavored, using mountain vegetables, river fish, and seasonal produce. • The view of the garden from the dining area adds to the healing experience. ⸻ 📍 Access & Highlights • 【By Train】About 40 minutes by bus from Nakanojo Station (get off at Shima Onsen). • 【By Car】Approximately 60 minutes from the Shibukawa Ikaho IC on the Kanetsu Expressway. • Day-use bathing is available (fees and time restrictions apply). ⸻

Founded in the Genroku period, stay at Japan's oldest wooden hot spring inn building✨ ⸻ ⏳ A journey through history and time • The main building, built in 1691 (Genroku 4) and opened for business in 1694, is the oldest wooden hot spring inn building in Japan and is designated as an Important Cultural Property . • It is said to be the model for the "red bridge and bathhouse" in the fantasy film "Spirited Away," giving you a time-traveling feeling . ⸻ 🛁 Hot spring therapy and bathing style • The main building is a self-service "modern hot spring therapy building," where you can experience the old-fashioned way of putting your futon in and using the shared facilities . • **"Genroku no Yu"** is a Taisho-era Romanesque building built in 1930, with an arched window bathroom, and is a famous hot spring heritage that evokes the luxury of the time . ⸻ 🍽 "Shokuji" meals that are kind to the body and mind • Simple, nutritious seasonal meals that soothe travelers are served in bento style . • The appeal is the "daily meals like medicinal food" that enjoys the famous waters of Shima and local wild vegetables and miso. ⸻ 🌿 Choose from three different buildings • Main building (Toji building): For those who want to enjoy a self-stay in a historic environment . • Sanso (built in 1936): A pure Japanese-style inn registered as a cultural property, with kumiko shoji screens that highlight the craftsmanship . • Kashotei (built in 1986): A high-altitude inn that is perfect for those looking for modern and luxurious facilities . ⸻ 💡 This is special! • A rare inn where you can easily experience the traditional "Toji" half-self-care. • Shima Onsen, said to cure 40,000 illnesses, is a famous hot spring where you can drink the spring water. • You can spend your time learning about the background of the buildings and hot springs through a historical tour and a guided tour of the building. ⸻ ✅ Recommended for: • People interested in history and architecture • People who want to experience the good old hot spring culture at a modern inn • People who want to heal their mind and body in nature and are looking for a quiet adult trip ⸻ ✍️ Stay plan (example) 1. Lunch: Cross the red bridge and check in at the main building 2. Afternoon: Tour the hot springs & drink the spring water, stroll around the building on a historical tour 3. Dinner: Taste a delicious bento, enjoy the hot spring futon & Taisho Romantic bath 4. The next morning: Check out after an early morning bath and drink the spring water to heal your mind and body ⸻ A deep journey at Sekizenkan where you can experience history, healing and tranquility all at once. Why not choose "Beyond the Red Bridge" for a little trip back in time? ✨ #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #Gunma #GunmaTourism #GunmaTrip #Sekizenkan #ShimanOnsen #HotSpring

Sekizenkan, a historic onsen escape in Gunma Prefecture, might be the most spectacular place I’ve ever been to. Tucked away in the forested mountains of central Japan, this isn’t just a traditional ryokan — it’s a step into another world. Founded in 1691, Sekizenkan is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring inns, and walking through its red bridge and wooden halls feels like entering a scene from a Ghibli film (it’s often said to have inspired Spirited Away). What makes it special? Timeless atmosphere. The moment you arrive, you're surrounded by forested hills, fresh air, and architecture that has stood the test of centuries. Inside, the ryokan offers tatami-mat rooms, peaceful hot spring baths (onsen), and the kind of calm that only comes from slow, quiet places. You can enjoy a truly unforgettable onsen experience with both indoor and open-air baths, all fed by natural hot springs. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. 🍱 If you stay, traditional kaiseki meals are served — multi-course Japanese dinners made with seasonal, local ingredients, beautifully prepared and presented. 📸 Don’t miss the chance to take photos of the iconic arched red bridge and the historic wooden corridors — especially in autumn or winter, when the scenery feels extra cinematic. 🌙 And when night falls, Sekizenkan becomes even more enchanting. With the lights glowing and steam rising from the baths, the whole place transforms — you genuinely feel like Chihiro stepping into the world of Spirited Away. 🗺️ Sekizenkan is located in Shima Onsen, reachable by train and bus from Tokyo in about 3 hours. It’s well worth the journey if you’re looking for authentic onsen culture, deep rest, and a sense of timeless Japan.

♨️ Kusatsu Onsen: One of Japan's Top Three Hot Springs Kusatsu Onsen is a renowned hot spring area symbolized by the "Yubatake," which produces approximately 4,000 liters of hot water per minute. Visitors can enjoy the "Yumomi Show" at "Netsunoyu" and explore the hot spring town, which boasts the highest natural hot spring output in Japan. At night, the illuminated Yubatake creates a magical atmosphere. 🌊 Shima Onsen: Relax in the Serenity of Shima Blue Shima Onsen is a tranquil hot spring area with the crystal-clear Shima River flowing through it. "Sekizenkan," a historic inn founded in the Genroku era, is also recognized as a historical building. Additionally, "Lake Okushima," formed by the Shima River Dam, features a stunning cobalt-blue surface, perfect for driving or strolling. 🏞️ Onioshidashi Park: A Unique Landscape Born from Mount Asama's Volcanic Activity Onioshidashi Park is a lava field created by Mount Asama's eruption, offering dynamic natural beauty. The park has well-maintained walking trails, allowing visitors to enjoy the majestic scenery of Mount Asama while walking among the lava formations. 🌸 Nakanojo Gardens: Be Enchanted by Seasonal Flowers Nakanojo Gardens is a vast garden park consisting of seven gardens and a farm area. Roses are in full bloom during spring and autumn, captivating visitors with their vibrant colors. The park also features cafes and shops, providing a relaxing atmosphere. 🍜 Savor Gunma's Local Cuisine Gunma Prefecture offers a variety of local dishes. Enjoy "Okkirikomi," a wide noodle and vegetable stew, "Mizusawa Udon," known for its firm texture, and "Torimeshi," a sweet and savory chicken rice dish, all showcasing the unique flavors of the region. 🚗 Access Information • Address: Various locations in Gunma Prefecture (Kusatsu Town, Shima Onsen, Nakanojo Town, etc.) • Access: Approximately 2 hours from Tokyo via the Kanetsu Expressway. JR Joetsu Line and Agatsuma Line are also available for access. • Hours: Vary by facility; please check the official website in advance.