Hotels in Minakami

Minakami: Where Mountains Embrace Hot Springs and Rivers Flow with Adventure

Nestled in Gunma Prefecture, Minakami is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Renowned for its rejuvenating onsens, this charming town is surrounded by stunning mountains and the pristine Tone River, perfect for rafting and kayaking. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Joshin'etsu National Park or unwind in traditional ryokans, savoring local cuisine. With picturesque hiking trails and vibrant seasonal scenery, Minakami offers a harmonious blend of relaxation and outdoor excitement. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring or conquering the rapids, this enchanting destination invites you to experience the beauty of Japan’s untouched wilderness. For the best hotel rates in Minakami, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Minakami

Some of the best places to stay in Minakami are Kyukaruizawa, Karuizawa and Kusatsu. Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Kyukaruizawa is ideal for shopping and dining, while Karuizawa is known for its picturesque landscapes and seasonal events. Kusatsu is famous for its hot springs and traditional ryokans. Hotel accommodations range from modern resorts to cozy minshuku and traditional ryokans, providing diverse options for travelers. For first-time visitors, Karuizawa is the best choice, combining charm, convenience, and sightseeing opportunities. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Minakami:

1. KyukaruizawaOpens in a new window: Known for its adventure and outdoor activities, Kyukaruizawa is a fantastic destination for ski enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. The area boasts attractions like the Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort, perfect for skiing, and the Hoshino Onsen Hot Spring for unwinding. For a comfortable stay, consider Kyukaruizawa Kikyo, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel catering to business and family travelers, offering amenities like a business center and free cribs for children. Another option is HOSHINOYA KaruizawaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star lodge featuring a natural hot spring and adventure sports like horse riding nearby. Karuizawa Marriott HotelOpens in a new window is also a great choice, providing a blend of hot spring relaxation and business amenities, ideal for luxury seekers.
2. KaruizawaOpens in a new window: This charming area is perfect for family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and shopping. With the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza nearby, it's a hub for entertainment and dining. For accommodations, Tamaya RyokanOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.0-star ryokan featuring both indoor and outdoor public hot springs, while Ryokan NakamatsuyaOpens in a new window and Uematsuya RyokanOpens in a new window, both 3.5-star ryokans, offer similar amenities and a traditional experience, making them excellent choices for hot spring enthusiasts.
3. KusatsuOpens in a new window: Renowned for its wellness and relaxation offerings, Kusatsu is home to beautiful hot springs and ski areas like Shiga Kogen and the Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Yubatake hot spring, a symbol of the town. For lodging, T Hotel RyuooOpens in a new window and Hotel White Inn KitashigaOpens in a new window are both 3.5-star hotels that provide family-friendly amenities and easy access to ski shuttles. Nojiriko Hotel El BoscoOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort, offers dining options and various sports activities, making it a well-rounded destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Things to do in Minakami for first time

Minakami is a breathtaking destination perfect for a three-day getaway, offering stunning mountains, lush forests, and serene rivers. Travelers can indulge in activities like rafting, hiking, and relaxing in natural hot springs. This scenic paradise is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Minakami:

• Day 1: Start your exploration of Minakami by visiting the tranquil Shima River, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and perhaps try some riverside activities. Next, head to the Minobara Flower Garden, a stunning display of seasonal blooms that offers a perfect spot for leisurely walks and photography. Finally, make your way to Nakanojo Dam, where you can appreciate the engineering marvel and the surrounding natural beauty. This combination of nature and relaxation sets a wonderful tone for your trip.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Ikaho Onsen, a renowned hot spring area, where you can soak in the healing waters and experience traditional Japanese hospitality. Afterward, take a stroll across the picturesque Kajikabashi bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great spot for photos. Conclude your day at the TokuTomi Roka Memorial Museum of Literature, where you can immerse yourself in the rich literary history of Japan and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
• Day 3: Kick off your adventure at Mable Village Rock Heart Castle, a unique and charming attraction that captivates visitors with its whimsical architecture. After exploring the castle, head to Yubatake, the 'hot water field' of Kusatsu, where you can witness the steaming water bubbling up and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Finish your trip with a visit to Mount Haruna, where you can take in breathtaking views and possibly enjoy some hiking trails, making it a memorable end to your Minakami journey.

5 tips to find a great Minakami hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Minakami are March, June, and October, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For a great value for money experience, plan to stay for at least 1-2 days to fully enjoy the area's highlights, including its beautiful hot springs and stunning natural landscapes. This affordable destination is perfect for those looking to explore the outdoors while keeping costs down.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great savings on your next getaway to Minakami, last-minute deals can be a fantastic option. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on hotels that are available close to your travel date. To stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you maximize your chances of scoring a great rate.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Minakami.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Minakami and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Minakami

Minakami experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 28.2°F (-2.1°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.9°F (22.7°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Minakami are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, May, October, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.