Step Into the Spirit of the Hidden Valley
Nestled at the gateway to the nationally designated scenic beauty of the Agatsuma Gorge, the roadside station Agatsuma Gorge offers a harmonious blend of natural serenity, cultural heritage, and modern relaxation. Located in the heart of Minamiboso, this vibrant stop is more than a pit stop—it’s a destination where travelers reconnect with the rhythm of the countryside.
Discover a world where ancient ninja traditions come alive through interactive experiences at AGATSUMA SANADA NINJYA World, where guests can test their skills in hand-throwing challenges and explore the legacy of the legendary Sanada warriors. Rejuvenate in the natural hot spring bath of Tengu no Yu, relax in the soothing foot bath, or stroll through the expansive dog park where furry friends play freely. With a farm-to-table market, a cozy dining hall serving local specialties, and seasonal treats like the popular chestnut soft-serve, every visit promises new discoveries. Whether you're seeking adventure, wellness, or simply a peaceful pause in the mountains, Agatsuma Gorge welcomes you with open arms.
Why Visit
Agatsuma Gorge roadside station stands out for two unforgettable experiences unique to this location. First, the on-site AGATSUMA SANADA NINJYA World offers the only authentic ninja experience in the region, where visitors can test their skills in hand-held shuriken challenges and explore training grounds tied to the historical legacy of the Sanada ninjas. Second, the Marron & Vanilla Soft Cream, available only here, is a seasonal specialty made with locally harvested chestnuts, offering a rich, creamy taste that captures the essence of autumn in Gunma. Together, these elements create a one-of-a-kind blend of history, adventure, and regional flavor.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Agatsuma Gorge roadside station, where seasonal ingredients meet traditional recipes in a serene natural setting.
Agatsuma Dining Hall
あがつま亭
Specialty
Local ingredients and traditional regional flavors
A cozy dining hall that offers warm, home-style cuisine using fresh local ingredients. Enjoy seasonal flavors surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Shopping Highlights
Discover fresh local produce and unique crafts at Agatsuma Gorge roadside station’s vibrant market, perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and tasty treats.
Tengu Farm Produce Sales
てんぐ
A farm produce sales store offering fresh local agricultural products and regional specialties.
Products
Must-Try Item
Seasonal chestnut and vanilla soft cream
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like seasonal soft serve and handcrafted snacks, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Chestnut & Vanilla Soft Cream
マロン＆バニラソフトクリーム
A limited-time soft cream with rich chestnut and vanilla flavors, perfect for autumn.
Ninja Throwing Star Challenge
手裏剣チャレンジ
A fun and interactive game where visitors can test their skill with a ninja throwing star.
Devil's Tambourine Burger
デビルズタンバーガー
A spicy and savory burger with a unique flavor profile, inspired by the local culture.
Honey Mustard Chicken Burger
ハニーマスタードチキンバーガー
A juicy chicken burger with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce.
Furikake Seasoning
ふりかけ
A savory seasoning made from local ingredients, perfect for rice and snacks.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax in comfort with amenities including a natural hot spring, foot bath, clean restrooms, and ample parking for all travelers.
Parking Area
The roadside station features a spacious parking area suitable for cars and campers, making it an ideal stop for travelers and those looking to enjoy a night of car camping.
Adjacent to the main facility
Restrooms
Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available for visitors, ensuring comfort during your stay.
Throughout the premises
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available across the roadside station, allowing visitors to stay connected while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Throughout the premises
Information Center
The roadside station includes an information center where visitors can obtain maps, tourist guides, and assistance with local attractions and events.
Main entrance area
Dog Park
A large, grassy dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs, offering a safe and enjoyable space for pets to play. The park is open from 8:00 AM until sunset.
Near the entrance and recreational facilities
Agatsuma Gorge Hot Spring "Tengu no Yu"
A day-use hot spring facility with natural hot spring water sourced from the ground. The bath features a saltwater mineral spring that warms the body from within. It is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM).
On-site, within the roadside station complex
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available, though they are currently temporarily unavailable due to ongoing construction work.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitors' convenience, allowing easy access to cash while traveling.
Near the main entrance
Pet-Friendly Facilities
The roadside station is pet-friendly, offering a dedicated dog park, foot baths, and hot spring access for both pets and their owners, making it ideal for family visits with dogs.
Adjacent to the main recreational area
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in fun and adventure with ninja-themed challenges, dog-friendly play areas, and seasonal events throughout the year.
Ninja Challenge
手裏剣チャレンジ
Participants can try their luck at a ninja-themed target game using shuriken (ninja stars), with prizes such as PlayStation 5 and Disney couple tickets available.
Duration
30 min
Dog Park
ドッグラン
A spacious dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs, featuring soft natural grass, agility courses, and open space for dogs to run freely.
Duration
120 min
Open from 8:00 AM until sunset, weather permitting.
Foot Bath
足湯
A relaxing foot bath available daily from 10:00 AM until sunset (approximately 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM), allowing visitors to soothe tired feet in a natural setting.
Duration
30 min
Available only during daylight hours; closed during rainy or snowy weather.
Ninja World Experience
AGATSUMA SANADA NINJYA World
A themed ninja experience where visitors can participate in ninja training, learn traditional techniques, and engage in interactive challenges inspired by the history of the Sanada ninjas.
Duration
60 min
Hot Spring Bath
吾妻峡温泉「天狗の湯」
A day-use hot spring facility with natural hot spring water sourced directly from the ground, offering a relaxing soak in a serene natural environment.
Duration
90 min
Open daily; closed on the second Tuesday of each month and from January 1st to 3rd.
Instagram Photo Contest
わんちゃんベストショット
A free photo contest where dog owners can submit pictures or videos of their dogs taken at the dog park for a chance to be featured in the roadside station's Instagram gallery.
Duration
10 min
Best experienced on sunny days for optimal photo quality.
Insider Tips
Plan your visit around seasonal highlights and avoid peak times for a more peaceful experience at Agatsuma Gorge roadside station.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit the agricultural market "Tengu" by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure the day's fresh produce, as the seasonal vegetables like heirloom tomatoes and local spinach are restocked at opening and often sell out by noon.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter in "Agatsuma Inn," ask for the daily special "Fukagawa-style miso stew" served with local rice—this limited menu item is only available until 2:00 PM and is not listed on the main menu.
- Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, head to the food truck "Ninja Snack Bar" located near the dog park between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to try the seasonal "Hand Shuriken Soft Serve" in maple and chestnut flavors, available only during autumn months.
- Best Relaxation Window: Use the outdoor foot bath from 4:00 PM to sunset (around 5:30 PM) on weekdays, when the area is quiet and the view of the gorge is especially serene—avoid weekend evenings when crowds gather.
- Dog Park Timing: Take your dog to the grassy dog park before 10:00 AM on weekdays to enjoy the fully open space with minimal visitors; the park opens at 8:00 AM but is busiest after 10:30 AM.
- Ninja World Access: Enter the "Agatsuma Sanada Ninja World" at 10:00 AM on weekdays to participate in the guided "Ninja Survival Challenge" session, which runs every hour and requires a 15-minute advance registration at the entrance desk.
- Cash-Only Purchase Tip: The "Tengu" market does not accept card payments after 4:00 PM; bring cash to purchase the final batch of local pickles and dried mountain vegetables, which are sold only in the last hour of operation.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Visit for early seasonal treats like fresh bamboo shoots and spring vegetables at the farm stand.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy the dog park and foot bath during peak season, with lush greenery in the gorge.
Autumn (September–November): Experience red maple foliage and seasonal treats like chestnut soft serve and hand-held ninja challenges.
Winter (December–February): Relax in the hot spring bath and enjoy quiet, scenic views amid snowy landscapes.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a dedicated dog park, ninja-themed play areas, and family-friendly food options. Includes stroller-accessible paths and interactive experiences like hand-held ninja challenges, making it highly suitable for children and families.
Food Lover Review
Features a diverse menu at 'Agatsuma Tei' with local specialties like honey mustard chicken burgers and seasonal soft serve. Includes a well-stocked farm produce market with fresh regional goods, enhancing the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides clean restrooms, vending machines, and a spacious parking area suitable for overnight stays. While not designated as a formal campsite, the quiet setting and availability of foot baths and hot springs support comfortable car camping.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located adjacent to the scenic Agatsuma Gorge, offering panoramic natural views and seasonal landscapes. Features well-maintained scenic viewpoints, photo opportunities with the gorge and surrounding forests, and a serene, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.