This time, we will introduce the history and characteristics of Gunma Prefecture's local B-class gourmet food, Mizusawa udon.

Gunma Prefecture is located in the Kanto region of Japan and is famous for rivers such as Oze and Tone, and numerous hot springs such as Kusatsu, Ikaho, and Minakami.

There are plenty of activities that allow you to get in touch with nature, and many tourist spots that are relaxing for both children and adults.

This time, we will be giving you a thorough explanation of Gunma Prefecture's charming local B-class gourmet dish, Mizusawa udon!

What is Mizusawa udon?

Mizusawa udon is a traditional udon made in the Mizusawa region of Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, and is considered one of the "Three Great Udon Noodles of Japan," alongside Inaniwa in Akita and Sanuki in Kagawa.

It is made using wheat and is characterized by its transparency, smooth texture, and strong bite.

Made from carefully selected wheat and the pure, delicious water of Mizusawa, this is a special udon noodle dish that can only be found here.

The History of Mizusawa Udon

The history of Mizusawa udon dates back 400 years.

There are various theories about the origin of Mizusawa udon, but the most likely is that it is related to the Mizusawa Kannon Bodhisattva at Mizusawa Temple on Mount Gotoku.

Mizusawa Kannon is a Tendai Buddhist temple that is said to have been founded in the Nara period. The history of Mizusawa udon is said to be deeply connected to this temple, and it is said to have begun when monks began making udon as part of their vegetarian cuisine.

At the time, udon was served to worshippers and monks, and later became more widely available.

During the Edo period, Mizusawa Kannon became a famous temple, attracting many worshippers from Gunma, Tochigi, Saitama, and other areas, and udon became widely known. At the time, worshippers often ate Mizusawa udon as part of their faith, and it is said that this developed into the current "eating-around culture."

Characteristics of Mizusawa Udon

The most distinctive feature of Mizusawa udon is its firm texture.

The udon noodles are kneaded using wheat flour, Mizusawa's delicious water, and salt, and are made with great care and time, then left to rest to give them a chewy texture.

Another feature of this udon is its beautiful, translucent white color.

They use carefully selected high-quality wheat flour, which allows them to produce beautiful white udon noodles like this.

Tourist spots in Gunma Prefecture

From here, we will introduce some tourist spots in Gunma Prefecture.

Kusatsu Hot Springs

Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan's leading hot spring resorts, located in Kusatsu Town, Gunma Prefecture. Boasting an abundant supply of hot spring water and a high level of acidity, the unique quality of the water is what draws many visitors.

At the center of the hot spring town is the "Yubata," where approximately 4,000 liters of hot spring water gushes out every minute. This sight is a symbol of Kusatsu Onsen, and you'll be overwhelmed by its power when you see it up close.

The water from this hot spring is an acidic spring with strong antibacterial properties, which not only keeps the skin clean and beautiful, but is also said to be effective in easing nerve pain, joint pain, and fatigue.

The area around Kusatsu Onsen is blessed with beautiful nature throughout the four seasons, allowing you to enjoy different scenery each time you visit: the fresh greenery of spring, the cool refuge from the summer heat, the colorful leaves of autumn, and the snowy landscapes of winter.

Furthermore, there are many gourmet spots where you can try local specialties, so another attraction is being able to enjoy the local food and culture along with the hot springs.

Oze

Oze is a vast marshland that spans Gunma, Niigata, Fukushima, and Tochigi prefectures, and is one of Japan's most representative natural landscapes.

Oze is a place where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons, and is especially famous for the clusters of Asian skunk cabbage that bloom from spring to summer. The white flowers that adorn the marshland are also known as "Oze Spring," and the fantastical scenery is popular with many tourists and photographers.

In autumn, the grasslands turn red and yellow and the leaves change color, allowing you to feel the change of seasons.

Because vehicle access to Oze is restricted, the main way to visit is by hiking. Hiking in the great outdoors will refresh your mind and body.

Why not try spending some time soothing your soul through an extraordinary experience amidst the majesty of nature?

Kawaka Bridge

Kajika Bridge is a beautiful vermilion-painted bridge located near Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture.

In particular, in autumn, the surrounding autumn leaves decorate the bridge, creating a picturesque landscape, while in summer, when the greenery grows thicker, the vermilion bridge stands out even more, making for beautiful photographs.

It is also known as a spot where you can enjoy a fantastic atmosphere when it is lit up at night.

It's a popular walking course for tourists visiting the hot spring town, so after relaxing in the hot springs, why not take a walk around the Kajika Bridge and feel the nature around you?

Access to Gunma Prefecture

From here, we will introduce how to access Gunma Prefecture.

If you are traveling from Tokyo to Gunma Prefecture, we recommend taking the Shinkansen. You can take the Joetsu Shinkansen or Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Takasaki Station.

If you are traveling from Osaka to Gunma Prefecture, we also recommend the Shinkansen. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Tokyo Station, then transfer to the Joetsu Shinkansen or Hokuriku Shinkansen to Takasaki Station.

Location of Gunma Prefecture

summary

This time, we introduced the history and characteristics of Gunma Prefecture's local B-class gourmet food, Mizusawa udon.

Besides Mizusawa udon, Gunma Prefecture has many other delicious local specialties and famous tourist spots, so be sure to check it out!

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