One of Gunma Prefecture's top hot spring resorts, the mountain town of Minakami has long attracted wellness-focused visitors. Just under two hours from Tokyo, the town is well-located for restful weekend breaks spent hiking or soaking in relaxing onsens during the summer months, and skiing on the surrounding slopes in the snowy winters. Accommodation options include simple cottages as well as hot spring resorts, with our pick of the best places to stay in Minakami chosen for their excellent location, style and amenities.

With beautiful views of the Gunma mountains, Minakami is brilliant for those eager to simply kick back and unwind. If you’re feeling more active, however, treks up Mount Tanigawa come highly recommended, as do mountain biking excursions and white water rafting trips. Keen skiers and snowshoers should travel during the winter months. The Taine-ji and Gakurin-ji Temples are superb, as are the eerie tunnels which run below Doai Station. Take a guided tour for a real insight into this unusual landmark.

The best places to stay in Minakami fill up fast during public holidays and over long weekends. Book your trip well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Minakami

For a Healing Hideaway

• Minakami Sansou is a restorative spa resort at the foot of Mount Tanigawa. Soak in hot spring baths drawn from three wells, feast on traditional kaiseki cuisine, and relax in rooms with expansive views of the mountains, forests and healing springs. A tranquil choice.
• Bettei Senjuan features wonderfully spacious traditional accommodation — think tatami flooring and private onsens — in a peaceful and secluded setting. Take a soak in one of the six communal onsens, enjoy mountain hikes or tuck into delicious food. A luxurious hot spring resort.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Tokyo's Haneda International Airport or to Narita International Airport and travel two hours to Minakami by train and bus from central Tokyo.
• The Gunma region is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers are warm, with temperatures hovering between 22 and 27°C. For a quieter trip and great hotel deals, we'd recommend travelling in early autumn — also a beautiful time to visit. Winters are cosy but cold and you can expect some excellent skiing.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Tokyo.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.