NEIGHBORHOOD

The SHIROIYA HOTEL is located in Maebashi's downtown district. Explore traditional shops, bars, and restaurants along the nostalgic streets, then head along Maebashi Chuo-dori, a wide, covered shopping avenue that has seen a recent boom in young start-up businesses, cafes, and art galleries. Experience the retro charm of post-war architecture and the energy of a new generation. Within a few minutes on foot from the hotel, you will find new craft breweries, bakeries, and boutiques, next to stores that have served the area for generations. Arts Maebashi, the city's dynamic public art museum, is just a few steps away from the hotel. Further afield, the contemporary art museum Hara Museum Arc designed by Arata Isozaki features works by Andy Warhol, Yayoi Kusama, and Yoshitomo Nara, amongst verdant hills and mountain views.

Stroll along the banks of the Hirose River under the shade of willow trees, to find "Taiyo no Kane," The Bell of the Sun, by artist Taro Okamoto, in a special landscape designed by Sou Fujimoto. Maebashi has a quiet charm that rewards a meandering stroll. Ask our staff for recommendations; they all have their favorite local spots that they would love to share.

Maebashi is the capital of Gunma, connecting Tokyo with the mountains, lakes, and hot springs that make Gunma a favorite outdoor getaway. Try the hiking trails of Mt. Akagi from spring through autumn, and ice fishing on Lake Onuma in winter. Join a guided hike up Mt. Tanigawa, or paddle across Lake Shima in a canoe. Visit the onsen resorts of Minakami, Kusatsu, Ikaho, and Shima, or plan a day exploring Oze National Park and its wetlands that bloom with wildflowers in spring and summer.