Shibukawa

Ikaho Onsen is a historic hot-spring resort on the slopes of Mount Haruna, known for its distinctive 365 stone steps running through the centre of the old town. The staircase is lined with traditional inns, souvenir shops, cafés and bathing facilities, including the public bath Ishidan no Yu. The area's iron-rich spring water, known as Kogane-no-yu (“golden water”), has a brownish colour, while a second spring, Shirogane-no-yu (“silver water”), is clear. Ikaho is also associated with the writer Tokutomi Roka, whose former residence is now a small museum. The resort can be reached by bus from Shibukawa Station.

Mizusawa-dera Temple also known as Mizusawa Kannon, is a Buddhist temple near Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture. Traditionally founded in the 7th century, it is one of the Bandō Sanjūsankasho, a pilgrimage circuit of 33 temples dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. The temple complex includes a main hall and a distinctive hexagonal, three-storey pagoda. It is also known for its mizusawa udon noodle restaurants along the approach. Buses run from Shibukawa Station, and the temple can be combined with a visit to Ikaho Onsen.

Shibukawa hosts this annual "Rock Festival" that's modeled after the Rockin'1000 project of Italy. If you are a vocalist, guitarist, bassist, or drummer, you can take part in a massive performance together with 999 newfound friends. Preparations to participate need to be made well in advance and might not be the easiest if you don't speak some Japanese, but spectators are allowed and just need to show up the day of the event.