Gunma with Kids — What to Do and Where to Stay
Last Updated on July 15, 2024 by Kay
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission on any purchases through those links at zero additional cost to you. Whatever I make goes to keeping this website running and I am forever grateful for the support. See my Privacy Policy for more information.
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo for a day or two with your kids? Then I highly suggest visiting Gunma Prefecture.
Gunma Prefecture is filled with nature and is somewhere many weary Tokyoites like to visit when they need to recharge, especially in the autumn and winter. Having visited many times, it is hands down one of my favorite prefectures in the Kanto region due to its scenic views and hot springs.
My husband and I took our daughter on a road trip to Gunma when she was one. We saw so many gorgeous autumn leaves and then stayed at a beautiful ryokan. It was truly a memorable and relaxing vacation.
Since there’s so much space in Gunma, there’s also a wealth of parks and other great things for kids to enjoy.
In this article, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Gunma with kids.
Gunma Kids’ Country
Just as the name implies, Gunma Kids’ Country is a perfect place to bring little ones. It has different playgrounds, a splash park, rides, bicycles, a summer bobsled, and lots of nature.
View this post on Instagram
Kusatsu
Kusatsu is a famous onsen town in Gunma and arguably one of the most famous in Kanto.
Here you can see the famous hot spring field (yubatake), pictured in the image above, which is otherworldly and especially magical at night. There are also lots of traditional shops, restaurants, and cafes, which is everything you need to have a relaxing time as you leisurely explore the town.
You can also visit nearby volcanos, such as Mount Shirane (currently closed) and Yugama.
Note that during peak season (fall and winter), it can become quite crowded. (Although I think it’s nothing compared to how busy Kyoto gets!)
Gunma Children’s World Children’s Hall
The Gunma Children’s World Children’s Hall allows kids to learn about science in different ways, such as through books or hands-on experiences.
They also have a planetarium for kids to enjoy looking at the stars or watching educational movies as well as an outdoor playground.
Auto Mirai Kezoji Amusement Park
This amusement park has attractions for different age ranges, including ones for babies! They also have a “cycle monorail” where you can ride through a sakura tunnel during spring.
View this post on Instagram
Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park
Another great place for train fans, Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park has different kinds of trains on display. Kids can also ride a small steam locomotive!
Gunma Museum of Natural History
The Gunma Museum of Natural History contains fossils and other exhibitions about the earth and Gunma. They also have special exhibitions, such as ones about Pokemon and fossils!
☔️ Recommended rainy day activity with kids in Gunma
Gunma Safari Park
Experience what it’s like to go on a safari by visiting Gunma Safari Park. You can drive or ride a bus through the grounds to see animals from different countries (divided into zones).
Minakami Kogen Ski Resort
This ski resort looks like so much fun! Of course, there’s the typical skiing and snowboarding available but little ones can enjoy a ton of winter activities, like sledding on a toboggan or an inflatable inner tube, exploring a tiny snow how, or riding on a snow liner.
To read about other ski resorts in Gunma, visit this article.
Karuizawa Toy Kingdom
My daughter has been to the one in Hyogo Prefecture and she had so much fun, so if Karuizaka Toy Kingdom is anything like that, your child will have a blast. There is so much to do, such as going on rides, playing with a range of toys (dolls, trains, etc), and having fun on the huge playground.
☔️ Recommended rainy day activity with kids in Gunma
Luna Park
This is a small amusement park with rides costing only 10-50 yen! Based on the rides, I think it’s best for younger children.
Kannonyama Family Park
This massive park is an ideal place to take the family to explore some nature on the walking trail and maybe have a picnic or barbeque. There’s a small splash area for kids, trampoline hills, a massive roller slide, and a playground.
Where to Stay in Gunma with Kids
If you want to stay overnight in Gunma with your kids, here are some great places that I recommend.
Syoubun・蛍雪の宿 尚文 (Minakamicho, Gunma)
I visited this ryokan with my husband and daughter when she was 1.5 years old. It was absolutely stunning during the fall because we could see the colorful autumn foliage from the window of our room.
The ryokan provided a yukata for me and my husband as well as jinbei for my daughter. She also got a child-sized toothbrush and a cute kids’ meal for dinner and breakfast.
We chose a room with a private onsen bath because we wanted to enjoy it as a family and overall we had a wonderful and relaxing stay.
Eidaya ・草津温泉宿 永田屋 (Kusatsu, Gunma)
This quaint ryokan is within walking distance of Yubatake in Kusatsu, making the location perfect for families with young children. They have rooms with private onsen baths as well.
They also provide meals and a futon for small children upon request.
Wrap-up: Gunma with Kids
I hope this look at what to do and where to stay in Gunma with kids is helpful to you. This prefecture offers plenty for the entire family and is wonderful to visit throughout the year.