Gunma’s Triple Crown: Hot Springs, Haute Cuisine, and Engineering Excellence
Gunma Prefecture, nestled in the heart of Japan, offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, engineering marvels, and culinary excellence. From the therapeutic waters of Kusatsu Onsen to the towering Yamba Dam and the charming Western restaurant Donguri, these destinations showcase the region’s diverse attractions. Join us as we explore three remarkable locations that have earned acclaim from visitors worldwide.
Yubatake (草津温泉湯畑)
At the heart of Kusatsu Onsen lies the Yubatake, Japan’s largest hot spring source, producing an impressive 4,000 liters of thermal water per minute. This natural wonder features unique wooden troughs called “yudoi” that cool the scorching 55-degree Celsius water while extracting valuable crystalline elements known as “yuno hana.” The highly acidic springs, with a pH of 2.1, require special bathing techniques, including the traditional “time bath” method. During the Edo period, the extracted “yuno hana” were so valuable they were presented as tributes to the shogunate.
Donguri (洋風レストラン どんぐり)
This beloved Western restaurant near Kusatsu Onsen draws both locals and regulars with its signature dishes. Named after the owner’s childhood memories of oak trees and acorns, Donguri’s standout offering is its Hamburger Curry – a tender patty served atop steamed rice with rich curry sauce, ketchup, and demi-glace. The restaurant also excels in Katsu Curry, featuring crispy pork cutlet with slow-sautéed vegetables in consommé and curry roux. Located just ten minutes from Yubatake, this culinary gem provides a delightful Western dining experience in an area known for traditional Japanese cuisine.
Yamba Dam (八ッ場ダム)
Standing 116 meters high and 290.8 meters across the Agatsuma River, Yamba Dam serves both as flood control and water supply infrastructure. Conceived in 1952 and completed after decades of construction, this engineering achievement now doubles as a tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy water activities like canoeing and fishing, take unique amphibious bus tours, or explore camping and hiking facilities. The dam’s surroundings offer stunning seasonal views, particularly during autumn when colorful foliage reflects on the artificial lake’s surface. Its 107.5 million cubic meter capacity and the surrounding recreational facilities make it an impressive testament to the balance between development and nature.
