|
 |
 |
| Gunma's winter comes down the mountains from the prefecture's northern border as soon as autumn wanes. Snow falls and accumulates along the northern mountains, and on the 2,000m peaks. The plateaus at their feet become a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. Some ski resorts open for business in November. Until early May, skiing and snowboarding are enjoyed. Hot springs abound near every ski resort, where the outdoor baths and spring waters can be savored while viewing the surrounding world of white silver. |
 |
| Yubatake; "Hot water fields"(Kusatsu Town) |
| The sources of hot springs located in the center of the Kusatsu spa area are the largest in Japan that bubble up naturally, discharging 5,000 liters every minute. Dense clouds of white steam rise, flavored with the scent of sulfur. |
|
|
 |
| Swans (Tatebayashi City) |
| From Siberia, several hundred swans migrate to Tatara Marsh, presenting an elegant sight, in this wildlife habitat. |
|
|
 |
| Mt. Sakura (Fujioka City) |
| Mt. Sakura is near Yashio Spa, and is famous for its unique cherry trees which blossom in the autumn and up to the onset of winter. From November to December, some 7,000 winter cherry trees vie in completion. |
|
|
 |
| Outdoor Bathing |
| Outdoor bathing in the winter offers private views of a silver world while soaking in hot spring waters. This supreme luxury gently relaxes the soul. |
|
|
 |
| Shorinzan Daruma Festival (Takasaki City) |
| This is the largest Daruma festival close to Tokyo. Takasaki City is famous as the area where the good-luck Daruma dolls originated, and accounts for 80% of nationwide production. |
|
|
 |
| Yukake Festival (Naganohara Town) |
| This festival takes place before dawn on January 20, the coldest day of the year. Men in loincloths splash hot water on each other in an unusual and well-known festival offering thanks to the gods of hot water. |
|
|
 |
| Skiing and Snowboarding |
| Good quality powder snow falls and accumulates in the northern areas of Gunma. Most ski resorts are located near a hot spring, so it can be said that the simultaneous enjoyment of winter sports and hot springs is a defining and unique aspect of the attraction of Gunma. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
