TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Sarugakyo Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Minakami Town, Tone District, Gunma Prefecture. Its scenic location overlooking a mountain valley and Lake Akaya (a dam lake) makes it an appealing place to enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons. It has long been popular as a hot spring resort and traveller's lodging, and now has accommodation facilities, day-use bathing facilities, foot baths and more, making it a popular destination for families, couples and those stopping off for a soak during a drive.
Highlights
- Views from the open-air baths: Many of the open-air baths offer views of the valley or the lake, and are particularly spectacular at dusk and during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves.
- Stroll around Lake Akaya: Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade and observation spots. Also recommended for taking photos.
- Foot baths and strolling around the hot spring town: There are foot bath spots that are free or easy to enter, so you can enjoy the hot spring feeling even for a short time.
- Local food: Accommodations and restaurants that serve local cuisine using Joshu beef, wild vegetables, and river fish (such as yamame trout).
- Seasonal Activities: Each season has its own charm, from the fresh greenery of spring, to escaping the heat of summer, to the colorful leaves of autumn, and the snowy scenery of winter.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- By car: Take the Kan-etsu Expressway. From Tokyo, take the Kan-etsu Expressway from Tsukiyono IC or the Minakami IC via national and prefectural roads for approximately 30 minutes (depending on road conditions). Parking is available at accommodations and lakeside parking spaces.
- Train + Bus/Taxi: Access by bus or taxi from Jomo-Kogen Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen, or Numata Station or Gokan Station on the JR Joetsu Line. Buses run only a limited number of times, so we recommend checking the schedule in advance.
- Expressway bus: There may be seasonal or direct buses. Please check the operating status in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: Hot spring bathing and walking around takes about 2-4 hours (3-5 hours including meals).
- Accommodation: Two days and one night is the standard. One night is recommended if you want to enjoy the hot springs and sightseeing in the area at your leisure, with dinner and breakfast included. If you also want to explore the outdoors and nearby spots, consider staying two nights or more.
Nearby spots
- Takumi no Sato (experience-based townscape and workshop): A tourist spot (in Minakami Town) offering a variety of traditional crafts and experience options.
- Minakami area: A wide variety of outdoor activities are available, including rafting, canoeing, and fishing.
- Tanigawadake: Enjoy the view from hiking or the ropeway (be careful of the weather and season).
- Tsukiyono Vidro Park (glass crafts and experiences) and nearby roadside stations: Spots where you can enjoy souvenirs and experiences.
- Ski resorts (winter): There are several ski and snow resorts nearby, making it easy to combine your stay with a winter getaway.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The resort tends to be crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, New Year's holiday, and ski season, both for overnight stays and day trips. Make your reservations early during peak periods.
- Transportation: In winter, roads can freeze and snow can accumulate, so chains or studless tires may be necessary. Buses run infrequently, so be sure to check the timetable beforehand if using public transportation.
- Onsen etiquette: Please observe general onsen etiquette, such as washing in the washing area before bathing, not putting towels in the bath, avoiding occupying the bathroom for long periods of time, and avoiding loud voices. Some accommodations and facilities may not allow tattoos, so be sure to check beforehand if you are concerned.
- Facility business information: Opening hours and closing days for day-use bathing may change depending on the season, so please check the official information of the accommodation or facility before visiting.
- Conservation of the natural environment: Please take your trash with you, observe etiquette, and respect the natural environment and scenery.
(Note) Information about transportation and facilities may change. Please check the official websites and tourist guides of each transportation company and accommodation facility in advance for the latest access, business information, and public transportation schedules.
