Higashiagatsuma(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Tōgojima, the top-rated accommodation is Yukawa Onsen Ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style inn nestled in the mountains near Mount Akagi. Known for its private outdoor hot springs and serene forest views, this ryokan offers authentic onsen experiences with mineral-rich, alkaline waters that soothe muscles and skin. Each room features tatami mats, sliding shoji doors, and direct access to natural baths. The inn also serves local specialties like black pork dishes and handmade tofu, sourced from nearby farms. Its peaceful location makes it ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility away from urban crowds.

The best time to visit Tōgojima for autumn foliage is from late October to mid-November, when Mount Akagi transforms into a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and gold leaves. The surrounding forests along the Tōgojima River offer scenic walking trails perfect for photography and leisurely strolls. Early mornings provide misty atmospheres that enhance the landscape’s ethereal beauty. This period also coincides with the Yūsai Festival, where locals celebrate the harvest with traditional dances and rituals. Plan at least two days to enjoy hiking, soaking in onsen, and experiencing the seasonal charm of this mountain village.

Must-visit natural attractions in Tōgojima include Mount Akagi, a dormant volcano offering panoramic views of Gunma Prefecture, and the Tōgojima River trail system, which winds through lush forests and clear streams. The Jinnoike Pond is another highlight—a serene alpine lake reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks, ideal for quiet contemplation or photography. Nearby, the Kurokawa Forest Path leads to hidden waterfalls and rare plant species. These sites are easily accessible by local bus or car from the town center, making them perfect for day trips or weekend getaways focused on nature and wellness.

Tōgojima's hot springs are renowned for their mineral-rich, weakly alkaline waters high in sulfur and potassium, known for improving skin health and relieving joint pain. The waters originate from deep underground reservoirs beneath Mount Akagi, naturally heated by geothermal activity. Many ryokans, such as Yukawa Onsen Ryokan, feature open-air baths surrounded by trees, allowing guests to soak while gazing at the stars or forest canopy. The therapeutic qualities, combined with the pristine mountain environment, make these onsen a holistic retreat for both body and mind.

Yes, Tōgojima is highly family-friendly. The town offers safe, clean environments ideal for children, with attractions like Akagi Nature Education Park, featuring interactive animal farms, forest trails, and hands-on ecology workshops. Families can enjoy picnic areas along the Tōgojima River, gentle hiking paths, and even fishing spots. Most ryokans provide family rooms, baby cots, and kid-friendly meals. With minimal traffic and no commercial noise, it’s an excellent destination for parents seeking quality time with kids in a peaceful, natural setting—perfect for reconnecting with nature and each other.

Must-try local foods in Tōgojima include black pork (Kurobuta) dishes, raised in the region’s open pastures and prized for their rich flavor and tender texture. Another highlight is wild mushrooms and bamboo shoots harvested from Mount Akagi’s forests, often served in miso soup or tempura. Don’t miss handmade tofu made with pure mountain spring water—creamy and delicate, available at local inns. Also, sample matcha soba noodles (Chasoba), a Gunma specialty combining earthy green tea with buckwheat. Many restaurants practice "one meal, one local ingredient" philosophy, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

To reach Tōgojima from Tokyo, take the Tobu Railway’s Isesaki Line from Asakusa Station to Tōgojima Station, a journey of about 1 hour 30 minutes. From the station, transfer to a local bus or taxi to your accommodation. Alternatively, drive via the Kōshin Expressway to the Tōgojima Interchange, taking approximately 1.5 hours. The town also offers a community shuttle bus connecting key attractions and accommodations. For greater flexibility, renting a car is recommended, especially for exploring remote trails and scenic viewpoints around Mount Akagi.

Visitors to Tōgojima can participate in unique cultural experiences like the Yūsai Festival, held annually in autumn, featuring traditional dances, purification rituals, and community feasts centered around the onsen culture. Join a foraging workshop to learn how to identify edible wild plants such as ferns, mountain garlic, and maple buds, then cook them into local dishes. Try pottery-making at Tōgojima Ceramics Studio, using locally sourced clay to craft your own bowl or cup. These immersive activities emphasize harmony with nature and ancestral traditions, offering deeper insight into the town’s sustainable lifestyle.

The best areas for staying in Tōgojima are the town center and the Yukawa Onsen District. The town center offers easy access to trains, buses, shops, and restaurants, ideal for first-time visitors. The Yukawa Onsen District is the heart of the onsen experience, home to several traditional ryokans like Yukawa Onsen Ryokan and Akagi Mountain Villa, all within walking distance of natural hot springs and forest trails. For privacy and seclusion, consider a forest cottage or guesthouse on the outskirts, often set in restored old farmhouses with private baths and gardens. Both zones provide peaceful, low-traffic environments perfect for relaxation.

Absolutely. Tōgojima is a paradise for photographers. Capture the dramatic autumn colors on Mount Akagi, especially during golden hour when sunlight filters through crimson and amber leaves. The Tōgojima River at dawn, wrapped in mist, creates dreamlike reflections perfect for long-exposure shots. Jinnoike Pond offers mirror-like surfaces ideal for capturing sky and mountain reflections. At night, the open-air onsen baths lit by lanterns against a starry sky produce stunning contrast images. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens, and explore early morning or twilight hours for the most magical light. Every season brings new visual stories in this untouched mountain haven.