Icy wonders and hot springs in Japan’s winter
Travel north of Tokyo into Japan’s snow-kissed wonderland, where Nagatoro’s gentle river valleys, Chichibu’s shimmering icicles, and Kusatsu’s steaming springs await—an enchanting realm of snowy adventure, timeless traditions, and soothing warmth.
JR TOKYO Wide Pass
To make the most of this winter journey—from the vibrant heart of Tokyo to snow-covered landscapes and steaming hot springs—we recommend traveling with the JR TOKYO Wide Pass. Starting from Tokyo Station, you can comfortably reach Nagatoro for a magical kotatsu boat ride along the river, marvel at the illuminated Misotsuchi Icicles, and continue on to Kusatsu Onsen to enjoy skiing and one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns. With unlimited rides in the eligible area, including Shinkansen access, the pass offers a smooth and cost-effective way to connect each destination. From scenic river valleys to rejuvenating onsen experiences, the JR TOKYO Wide Pass makes exploring the greater Kanto region effortless and rewarding.
Tokyo Station
Hokuriku Shinkansen 【TOKYO Wide Pass】
Tokyo - Kumagaya
Walk
JR Kumagaya Station - Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station
Chichibu line
Kumagaya - Mitsumineguchi
M5 Bus
Mitsumineguchi Station - Miyadaira
Walk
Miyadaira - The Three Great Icicles of Chichibu
The Three Great Icicles of Chichibu
The cold winters in Chichibu transform the landscape into a frozen wonderland, which is home to the famous Three Great Icicles. These natural ice formations, sculpted by nature, offer spectacular scenery that are perfect for adventure seekers and outdoor lovers. With their ever-changing shapes and colorful illuminations, the icicles make for an unforgettable winter experience in Japan.
Walk
The Three Great Icicles of Chichibu - Miyadaira
M5
Miyadaira - Mitsumineguchi Station
Chichibu Railway
Mitsumineguchi - Nagatoro
Walk
Nagatoro Station - Kotatsu Boat
Nagatoro
With no shortage of things to try in Saitama’s Nagatoro region, you might find yourself overwhelmed by choosing what to do first. We’re here to help you plan a trip full of fun activities and fresh food.
Nagatoro Choseikan Ryokan
Nagatoro Choseikan Ryokan
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Choseikan - Nagatoro Station
Chichibu Railway
Nagatoro Station - Kumagaya Station
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Chichibu Railway Kumagaya Staion - JR Kumagaya Station
Limited Express Kusatsu Shima on Takasaki Line & Azuma Line 【TOKYO Wide Pass】
JR Kumagaya - Naganohara Kusatsuguchi Station
Bus for Kusatsu Onsen
Naganohara Kusatsu guchi Station - Kusatsu Onsen
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Kusatsu Onsen - Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort
Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort
Head to Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort any time of the year to enjoy countless activities in nature, from skiing and hiking to playing with your furry friends!
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Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort - Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen
Of the 3,000 or so onsen (natural hot spring baths) in Japan, Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma has been rated number one of the Top 100 Onsen selected by travel pros for the past 20 years in a row. Come learn how this small town has become one of the most popular onsen resort towns in the country, fielding around 3 million visitors annually.
