Roadside Station Shirasawa is located along National Route 120 in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture. The facility stands on a river terrace formed by the Katashina River, which eventually joins the Tone River, and enjoys a scenic location overlooking magnificent mountains and a remarkable natural landscape.
More than simply a convenient rest stop for sightseeing and driving, Roadside Station Shirasawa is a multi-purpose destination where visitors can enjoy hot springs, local agricultural products, family recreation, and spectacular scenery.
The central attraction of Roadside Station Shirasawa is Shirasawa Kogen Onsen “Bokyo-no-Yu”, a day-use hot spring facility. The alkaline simple hot spring has a gentle, smooth feel and is a relaxing way to refresh after sightseeing or skiing.
The hot spring attracts not only local residents but also visitors from the greater Tokyo metropolitan area and other parts of Japan.
From the open-air baths, visitors can look down over the extensive river terrace of the Katashina River. On clear days, panoramic views extend toward famous mountains including Mount Akagi, Mount Koshin, Mount Hotaka, and the Mikuni Mountains.
The combination of soothing hot spring waters and magnificent mountain scenery creates an impressive 360-degree panoramic view. Bathing while taking in the changing scenery of the four seasons is a particularly relaxing experience.
The facility features several bathing areas with different atmospheres, including Yō-no-Yu, where visitors can relax in an open and spacious setting.
Surrounded by the clear air of the highlands and expansive mountain scenery, guests can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this traditional hot spring area.
Across from Bokyo-no-Yu is “Za-Shirasawa,” a farmers’ market offering a wide selection of fresh locally grown vegetables, fruits, and processed foods.
Among the popular products are seasonal vegetables, including Momotaro tomatoes, known for their concentrated sweetness and rich flavor.
Because the market allows visitors to purchase fresh agricultural products directly from local producers, it is popular with both tourists and residents. Shopping here is also a great way to discover the richness of Numata’s agricultural traditions and seasonal produce.
Roadside Station Shirasawa offers facilities that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. The spacious park includes a roller slide, a mini athletic course, and water-play facilities, making it particularly popular with families on weekends and holidays.
The open surroundings provide plenty of space for children to move around and enjoy nature, making the facility a pleasant place to take a break and stretch your legs during a road trip.
There is also a soft-serve ice cream stand and a free rest area where visitors can take a leisurely break.
At the observation restaurant, guests can enjoy dishes prepared with local ingredients while taking in the spectacular surrounding scenery.
Roadside Station Shirasawa has developed beyond its role as a simple roadside rest stop and serves as an important community hub for the Shirasawa area.
The complex also includes a Health and Welfare Center, providing a place for local residents to meet, relax, and interact.
With its hot spring, farmers’ market, and welfare facilities located together, the area naturally brings local residents and visitors into contact with one another, giving the roadside station a broader community role.
Roadside Station Shirasawa is conveniently located along routes leading to the world-famous Oze wetlands and the Senjogahara Wetland area of Oku-Nikko.
It is also conveniently accessible from the Kan-Etsu Expressway and is located along National Route 120, close to Gunma Prefectural Route 62, the Numata-Omama Line.
Visitors can stop here at the beginning of their sightseeing trip or relax in the hot springs at the end of a long journey.
Numata City, Gunma Prefecture
Along National Route 120
Shirasawa Kogen Onsen “Bokyo-no-Yu”
“Za-Shirasawa” Farmers’ Market
Health and Welfare Center
Park with a roller slide and mini athletic course
Free rest area and shops
With its spectacular hot spring overlooking the surrounding mountains, farmers’ market filled with local produce, and family-friendly park facilities, Roadside Station Shirasawa is a place where nature, local culture, and community life come together.
Rather than simply stopping here briefly during a journey, visitors may find themselves wanting to stay and enjoy the scenery and facilities at a more leisurely pace.
When visiting Numata, be sure to stop at Roadside Station Shirasawa and experience its expansive mountain views, relaxing hot springs, and welcoming atmosphere.