Nestled in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Takasaki is a city that seamlessly blends rich cultural traditions with modern urban life. It is known above all for its iconic Daruma dolls, but also attracts many visitors with its vibrant festivals, local cuisine and award-winning sake.
Takasaki offers a unique and immersive experience for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Japanese culture. So here’s a brief guide to this charming city, from its convenient access to Tokyo to its distinct local offerings.
Getting to Takasaki
Takasaki is conveniently located, making it easily accessible from Tokyo. The fastest way to reach Takasaki from Tokyo is by taking the JR Joetsu Shinkansen, with a travel time of approximately 50 minutes. The city is also well-connected by local trains (which take about 2 hours into Tokyo at less than half the price in case you like to save some money), buses, and highways, providing multiple options for a hassle-free journey.
Takasaki’s Local Festivals
Takasaki hosts a variety of lively festivals and events throughout the year, each offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural tapestry. One of the most celebrated events is the “Takasaki Daruma Doll Festival” held annually in January.
The festival pays homage to the Daruma, a traditional Japanese doll symbolizing good luck and perseverance. Visitors can witness colorful processions and traditional performances. You can also expect food stalls and some festival activities like painting your own Daruma doll for good fortune. Which makes the perfect souvenir to take home.
The Famous Daruma Dolls
As already mentioned Takasaki is renowned as the birthplace of the Daruma doll, and these iconic round figures can be found throughout the city. Daruma dolls are considered a symbol of determination and goal-setting in Japanese culture. Visitors can explore local shops and workshops to learn about the art of making Daruma dolls and purchase these charming talismans as souvenirs or for personal inspiration.
If you do end up buying one, it is customary to draw one of the Daruma’s eyes and make a wish, when it comes true you then paint the second eye as well.
It is also worth visiting the local temple, the Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple, which is dedicated to the Daruma. You will find plenty of Daruma dolls, among a small museum and of course the chance to buy Daruma-themed lucky charmes and more. When buying one, keep in mind the different colors do have special meanings, like happiness for red or money and fortune for yellow.
Also good to know, as part of the Daruma festival each year, they temple is burning all the dolls, so if you happen to visit just afterwards, the place will be rather empty.
Local Food and Drink in Takasaki
No visit to Takasaki is complete without savoring the local treat and in Takasaki there are many. One specialty is the “Takasaki Gyoza” (dumplings). These pan-fried dumplings boast a perfect balance of crispy and juicy textures, and they are a popular snack among locals and visitors alike.
For those seeking a more traditional dining experience, explore the local izakayas (Japanese pubs) and indulge in Gunma Prefecture’s famous “Joshu Wagyu” beef. Pair your meal with a glass of locally brewed sake, such as “Osakazuki” from Makino Brewery to enhance your gastronomic adventure with authentic flavors.
And as a fun fact, the town is also known for its love of pasta. So much so that they do have their own Pasta festival called the King of Pasta (!) and the local sake brewery does make sake that pairs particularly well with their beloved Italian dish. Just look out for the label sporting a bowl of pasta making it easy to find even if you do not speak or read Japanese.
Where to Stay in Takasaki?
There are a number of great value hotels in Takasaki and they can be easily booked through booking platforms like booking.com. The Dormy Inn is a reliable option, that offers great value for money and also features a stone bath onsen area for guests to use.
Or why not stay at the high-end Hotel Grand View, for a little more luxury? The hotel features beautiful rooms, some with massage chairs, a rooftop onsen with sauna, and a stonebath (on the women’s side only). Their newly opened Mikumano restaurant offers fantastic food prepared with local ingredients such as “Joshu Wagyu” beef and vegetables from Gunma prefecture. The restaurant also offers an “Osakazuki Premium Dinner course”, which they perfectly pair with the Osakazuki Sake from Makino Sake Brewery. You will get to try delicious Wagyu sushi, beautifully presented on a Gunma-shaped plate, as well as a fiery sukiyaki dish and dessert made with the local Osakazuki Sake
Both are great hotels, so if you decide to make it a weekend getaway instead of a short day trip you can be assured to have a relaxing night.
Conclusion
Takasaki, with its accessible location, vibrant festivals, iconic Daruma dolls, and delicious cuisine (both Japanese and Italian), offers a great escape from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo.
Whether you’re drawn to the city’s cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights, or simply seeking a serene getaway to learn more about local Japanese culture, Takasaki invites you to explore its unique blend of tradition and modernity.
So, why not hop on a train from Tokyo and embark on a journey to discover the charm of Takasaki in Gunma Prefecture?
