[11 Popular Date Spots in Gunma] Create Unforgettable Memories with Beautiful Natural Scenery and Diverse Experiences

Lockheart Castle is a photogenic and popular spot where a Scottish castle was relocated and restored, with a recreated medieval townscape around it. Its beautiful setting has also been used as a filming location for many dramas.
From the authentic castle built in 1829 to the English garden "Williams Garden" made with Scottish stone, the romantic space blending into the surrounding nature feels as if you have wandered into another country.

Usually, when people think of famous waterfalls, they imagine looking up and feeling their dynamic power.
But Fukiwari Falls is a little different. It is a very rare spot where you can look down on the falls and feel the grand power of nature.
The waterfall has a drop of 7 meters and a width of Approx. 30 meters, which is why it is also called the "Niagara of the East."

Kusatsu Onsen is famous as one of Japan’s three most celebrated hot springs. It boasts the largest natural spring water output in Japan at over 32,300 liters per minute, and its highly acidic spring water is also known for its strong sterilizing properties.
Yubatake, the symbol of the town, is a great place for a stroll, with steam and the scent of sulfur rising as natural hot spring water gushes out at a rate of 4,000 liters per minute. There are also walkways and benches around the area.

This vast natural zoo is set in hilly land next to Oshio Lake. From inside your car or bus, you can see Approx. 100 species of wild animals up close, including giraffes, white tigers, and lions.
The park also offers plenty of bus tours, including thrilling feeding experience buses where you can feed lions and herbivores.
Night safari tours are also held, letting you enjoy animal behavior that can only be seen after dark.

Located within Joshinetsu Kogen National Park and the northern foothills geopark of Mount Asama, this is a striking natural wonder created by the power of nature.
During the eruption of Mount Asama in 1783, lava flowed out and later cooled into hardened masses that spread across the area, creating its distinctive landscape.
At an elevation in the 1,300-meter range, the park is home to various alpine plants such as Togoku mitsuba tsutsuji and iwakagami blooming among the lava from around mid-May, while in autumn, from late September to late October, the colorful fall leaves against the lava rocks delight visitors.

Ikaho Onsen has been loved since ancient times, even appearing in the Manyoshu, and is said to have been cherished by literary figures such as Takehisa Yumeji and Tokutomi Roka.
The symbol of the town is its 365 stone steps, lined on both sides with craft shops and local specialty stores.
The 365 steps are said to reflect the wish that the hot spring town will stay lively all 365 days of the year, and part of the staircase is engraved with the poem "Ikaho no Machi" written by Yosano Akiko.

Gunma Prefecture is famous for konnyaku production, and it is said to account for 90% of Japan’s total output. This is a konnyaku-themed park in the heart of that konnyaku-producing region.
At the factory inside the park, you can tour three production lines: the "Itakonnyaku Production Line," the "Shirataki Production Line," and the "Dessert Production Line."
Other popular attractions include a free buffet where you can enjoy various konnyaku dishes and sweets, a 648-yen all-you-can-pack konnyaku challenge, and the "Foods Market," which sells fresh vegetables from Gunma.

A flower and nature-themed tourist attraction in Maebashi, Gunma, renewed in October 2025 under the concept "Enjoy! Playing with Flowers."
Centered on the signature flowers of Gunma, roses, hydrangeas, and clematis, visitors can encounter many different kinds of flowers depending on the season. Some are original varieties that can only be seen at this park, so every visit brings new scenery and discoveries.
Events such as flower picking, plant dyeing craft experiences, and nature tours are also held regularly.

Suwakyo Gorge is a valley shaped by the crystal-clear flow of the Tone River. A walking trail runs along the river, making it a wonderful place for a hike while enjoying nature.
The autumn foliage season is especially spectacular, when vivid scenery appears on both sides of the river. Railway tracks run just above the walking path, and if you are lucky, you may even see a steam locomotive.

Mount Haruna, rising in the central part of Gunma Prefecture on the north side of the Kanto Plain, is one of Gunma’s representative mountains and is known together with Mount Akagi and Mount Myogi as the "Jomo Sanzan."
Haruna Shrine stands on the mountain’s southwestern foothills and is said to have been founded in the 6th century. It is believed to bring blessings such as good fortune and business prosperity, and in recent years it has become popular as a matchmaking power spot.

Opened in 1971 in Maebashi, Gunma, where roses are designated as the city flower, this garden is home to Approx. 600 varieties and 7,000 rose bushes, reaching their best season twice a year, in spring and autumn.
There is an old rose area that evokes a sense of history and a modern rose area divided by producing country, each designed so visitors can enjoy its own distinct charm, making it an irresistible space for rose lovers.
One highlight is Maebashi’s original rose, "Akagi no Kagayaki," known for its beautiful color changes from yellow to orange to red as it blooms.

Located in the Gunma Prefectural Government Building, a skyscraper with 33 floors above ground and a height of Approx. 154 meters, second only to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, this is one of Gunma’s finest scenic spots.
From the free observatory floor on the 32nd floor, Approx. 127 meters above ground, a sweeping night panorama unfolds with the lights of central Maebashi below and the Jomo Sanzan mountains in the background, changing expression moment by moment.
Since there are almost no high-rise buildings blocking the view, even the silhouette of distant Mount Asama stands out clearly, and the contrast of light and shadow is as beautiful as a jewel box.
The ride up in the see-through elevator is fun in itself, and you can circle the hall to photograph the views in every direction or relax at the café in one corner.

Kannonyama Miharashidai Park, located halfway up Mount Kannon in Takasaki City, is an observation park certified as a Lovers’ Sanctuary.
From the east-facing observatory, you can overlook spectacular views of Takasaki city and toward Maebashi.
From dusk to night, the city lights below are scattered as if outlining National Route 17 along the Karasu River, and even the high-rise buildings and car lights create a varied panoramic night view.
The Tone River and mountain ranges stretching into the distance, along with the moonlight on clear nights, are also beautiful.
There is parking right nearby, and since you can enjoy the view through the windshield, it is perfect for a driving date as well.

Fujimi Pass is a nature-rich mountain pass located at the foot of Mount Haruna and is known as one of Gunma’s leading night view spots.
True to its name, which comes from being able to see Mount Fuji, after sunset the dazzling sparkle of the Kanto Plain spreads out before you.
Not only can you see the lights of distant Maebashi and Takasaki, but on clear nights even the lights of Tokyo’s high-rise buildings can be seen, and the dynamic, dreamlike scenery makes you forget the noise of the city.
Depending on the weather, you may also get a view of the stars together with the city lights, making it popular with couples who want to spend a romantic evening.
Another attraction is the convenience of being able to enjoy the night view directly from the parking area set at an elevation of Approx. 700 meters.

Located in the center of Kusatsu Onsen, Yubatake is known as the symbol of the hot spring town.
Approx. 4,000 liters of spring water gush out every minute, and the sight of it flowing through wooden channels to create hot water cascades is impressive.
It is illuminated every day from sunset to 1:00am, transforming the lively daytime atmosphere into a dreamlike nighttime scene.
The rising steam, cascading hot water, and colorful lighting create a romantic setting unique to Kusatsu Onsen.
The surrounding area is lined with small restaurants, and strolling while enjoying onsen manju and local sake adds a special touch to a date.
Renting yukata and fully experiencing the culture and atmosphere of the hot spring town with all five senses is also a great idea.

The observation lobby at Takasaki City Hall is a viewing spot on the 21st floor of the main city hall building, Approx. 90 meters above ground.
It is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from JR Takasaki Station, and free admission is another nice point.
The view is characterized by the open feel unique to a regional city with few high-rise buildings, where the Jomo Sanzan mountains and the streaks of light from the Tone River stand out crisply beyond the glass windows.
Watching together as the city lights begin to twinkle during magic hour and gradually change into a dazzling sea of light will surely leave a lasting memory.
It is also famous as a first sunrise spot on New Year’s Day, so it is recommended for a New Year’s date as well.

Kurasu Washoku Noboru is a casual Japanese izakaya located Approx. 7 minutes on foot from JR Takasaki Station, in a popular area filled with hidden-gem independent shops.
Its greatest appeal is the way you can enjoy your time in a space that blends into everyday life and feels almost like coming home.
Step inside the cozy interior, with 9 counter seats and 12 table seats, and you will find a warm, homey atmosphere wrapped in the comfort of wood.
Another nice point is the seasonal dishes, made with fresh fish shipped directly from Tsukiji and the Boso Peninsula and seasonal vegetables from local farmers, with monthly themes set by the owner.
Each comforting, home-style dish helps ease the tension of a date and naturally gets the conversation flowing.
Especially popular are the more than 10 kinds of local sake and the "seasonal takikomi rice," made with rare rice from Akita Prefecture cooked in a pot with a secret broth.

Yoi Hachikyu is a Japanese and kappo restaurant located about a 5-minute walk from the south exit of Ota Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line.
With a wide range of seating options including counter seats, tables, and private rooms for small groups, it can be used for many occasions such as dates and celebrations.
The owner, who trained at renowned restaurants, uses carefully selected ingredients purchased directly from the market every day to serve simple dishes with proven skill and refined taste.
A popular menu choice is the "omakase course," where you can fully enjoy Japanese cuisine centered on seasonal sashimi, simmered dishes, fried dishes, and grilled dishes.
The variety and flavors change depending on the season and the day, which is one of the reasons it is enjoyable every time you visit.
With more than 20 kinds of sake and shochu always available, it is also recommended for couples who enjoy drinks.

Nikubar Rikamu is a meat bar located Approx. 4 minutes on foot from the south exit of Ota Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line.
Although close to the station, its house-like exterior on a quiet backstreet stands out, combining easy access with a hidden-gem feel that is perfect for stopping by after a date.
Inside, antique-style furniture creates a stylish space, and the mood lighting gently surrounds the two of you with a romantic atmosphere.
The menu includes a wide range of choices such as grilled dishes, cheese fondue, and wine, all available at reasonable prices.
The most popular option is the "Re:come Course," which includes 8 dishes plus 2.5 hours of all-you-can-drink service.
Centered on house-made roast beef and a prosciutto board, it lets you fully enjoy meat dishes, and it is also often used for birthday and anniversary surprises.

Hotel Sakurai, located on a hill in central Kusatsu Onsen, is a hot spring inn that ranks among the largest in Kusatsu.
Its proud feature is the hot spring water drawn from three different sources. In the large public bath, one of the biggest in Kusatsu Onsen at 30 meters long, you can enjoy mixed spring water from the Sai no Kawara Source and the Bandai Mine Source, while the open-air bath offers 100% natural spring water without added water from all three sources, including the Wata no Yu Source.
With features such as a Japanese garden where you can enjoy the beauty of the seasons and a lounge for elegant relaxation, it is sure to provide a refined resort stay.

Hotel Coco Grand Takasaki, located in Takasaki City, Gunma, is a perfect base for sightseeing.
It is directly connected to the east exit deck of Takasaki Station, offering excellent access at just a 3-minute walk.
The guest rooms feature a simple yet sophisticated design, creating a comfortable space. In addition, the large public bath with an open-air bath on the 10th floor offers sweeping views of Takasaki’s beautiful night scenery and is sure to soothe away your travel fatigue.

Hotel Kogure, located Approx. 30 minutes by bus from JR Shibukawa Station, is a long-established ryokan with Approx. 450 years of history.
Surrounded by the mountains of Joshu, it offers grand views of mountain ranges that change with the seasons from the guest rooms and facilities.
It is also known for letting guests feel close to the charm of Ikaho Onsen, long called a "paradise of hot water" and said to have inspired the Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away.
Another attraction is that it owns one-quarter of the total spring output of the Ikaho source known as "Kogane no Yu," which has been preserved for more than 400 years.
At the large public bath "Ko no Yu Senryo," one of the largest in northern Kanto at Approx. 1,300 tsubo, along with a total of 26 uniquely designed baths, you can luxuriously enjoy free-flowing natural spring water.
You can also indulge in extraordinary experiences that satisfy all five senses, including creative cuisine making use of Gunma’s great outdoors and esthetic treatments.