Undiscovered Shimonita with Ichiban Local Eatery - Rural JAPAN ～Escape to Back-Country～

Still not yet discovered for international tourists. Are you boring for city sightseeing, famous typical spots, and Japanese cartoon tours?
Then if you wish to find an undiscovered place, Shimonita in Gunma Pref should be your next journey!

Table of Contents

Overview of Shimonita City

Shimonita Town stretches approximately 17.5 km east to west and 10.25 km north to south, covering a total area of 188.38 square kilometers, which accounts for about 2.98% of Gunma Prefecture’s total area.

Around 85% of the town consists of forests and wilderness, with very limited flat land. A small plain is formed along the Kabura River in the eastern part of the town, but most of the area is made up of complex slopes on mountain sides, with narrow and scattered farmland. Due to this, living and industrial infrastructure is not considered well-developed.

However, Shimonita is a historic rural town blessed with rich natural surroundings, such as beautiful mountains and clear streams. In the past, it flourished as a key transportation hub connecting the Kanto region and Shinshu (Nagano area).

The town is surrounded by steep mountains over 1,000 meters in elevation. The Kabura River, originating from the Nagano border, and National Route 254 run east to west through the town, with around 80 small villages scattered along this route.

Climate: Average annual temperature: 12.1°C / Annual rainfall: 1,546 mm / Snowfall occurs 2 to 3 times per year, making the climate relatively mild.

Do Not Miss THE Japanese Local Eatery ICHIBAN

Affordable, Homely Meals at ICHIBAN – Famous for Tanmen Noodles!

If you’re looking for an at-home atmosphere and super affordable lunch or dinner, ICHIBAN is the place to visit. This cozy, no-frills restaurant specializes in Tanmen — a light, salt-based noodle soup packed with stir-fried vegetables — along with crispy fried dumplings.

There’s only one chef running the entire place by himself, from cooking to serving, giving the restaurant a warm, personal feel. Though the building may look a bit old, it’s beloved by locals for its welcoming vibe and delicious food.