Guide
Tamabara Shitsugen is a breathtaking wetland located at the foot of Mt. Takatori in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture. Due to its unique vegetation and stunning landscape, it is affectionately known as "Ko-Oze" (Little Oze), offering a scenery reminiscent of the famous Oze National Park. Surrounded by a majestic Japanese-style beech forest, this area provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The presence of well-maintained boardwalks and paths makes it an accessible destination for a relaxing stroll.
This region has long been cherished for its rich and preserved ecosystem at the base of Mt. Takatori. The unique environment, characterized by its Japanese-style beech forests, serves as a significant natural heritage for the local area. The rare and beautiful vegetation has earned the wetland its nickname "Ko-Oze," making it a symbol of the harmonious coexistence between nature and the Japanese landscape.
The greatest draw of Tamabara Shitsugen is the changing face of its flora throughout the seasons. In spring, delicate wildflowers such as the Skunk Cabbage (Mizubasho) bloom beautifully, while the summer brings a lush, vibrant green landscape. A highlight of the trek is reaching the "Buna-daira" area, where massive, ancient beech trees stand tall, creating a powerful and awe-inspiring natural spectacle. The walking paths are relatively flat and well-maintained, allowing you to experience the intricate beauty of nature up close.
The wetland offers a different charm in every season. From spring to early summer, the sight of water-loving plants like Mizubasho is enchanting. From early summer through summer, the deep green of the beech forest is a sight to behold. In autumn, the area is painted with colorful foliage, and in winter, the landscape transforms into a serene snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing. For the best experience, visit during daylight hours to see the vivid colors of the plants. Most visitors aim to arrive within the Center House operating hours (typically 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
Nature walking is the primary activity here. By following the established boardwalks, you can observe the unique wetland ecosystem up close. While the wetland itself is a place for quiet contemplation and walking, the surrounding Numata area offers more active adventures depending on the season, such as paragliding, rafting, skiing, and snowshoeing. Tamabara Shitsugen remains a premier destination for those seeking a peaceful connection with the natural world.
The area surrounding the wetlands is dotted with various spots to enjoy the great outdoors. You can explore the hiking trails of Mt. Takatori or engage in seasonal outdoor sports. Additionally, nearby cultural sites like the "Mori no Hakubutsukan Tamabara" (Tamabara Forest Museum) allow you to deepen your understanding of the local nature and culture. The entire Numata area serves as an outdoor hub, with many facilities nearby for camping and BBQ.
Since you will be walking through a natural environment, comfortable and practical clothing is highly recommended. As weather and temperatures can change rapidly near the wetlands, bringing a light jacket or extra layer is a good idea. Wear sturdy sneakers or trekking shoes. Regarding payments, the Center House and surrounding facilities accept both cash and credit cards (such as Visa and MasterCard). Please respect nature by not picking any plants and ensuring you carry all trash back with you. Note that English signage is limited, so it is helpful to check maps or information in advance.