By train
Gunma is the exception to the rule in Japan; train service in the prefecture is very limited, particularly in the northern and western parts of the prefecture. Trains are best used as a way to get into the area, rather than used for getting around within.
The Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo goes through Gunma on its way to Niigata. The Nagano Shinkansen takes the same route until Takasaki before branching off. For slower but much cheaper access, the Shonan-Shinjuku Line connects with the Takasaki Line to Takasaki.
Travel to the eastern part of the prefecture is slightly more difficult for those unfamiliar with the Japanese rail system. From Maebashi or Shin-Maebashi Stations a traveller can transfer to the Ryoumo Line to travel across the prefecture to Kiryu. Direct from Tokyo, the Tobu Rail Service provides the bulk of access to east Gunma from their hub at Asakusa Station. The red-striped Ryoumo Line limited express trains cost ï¿¥2400 for service to Ota, Shin-Kiryu, or Akagi stations on the Akagi line; the same price will take a traveller to Isesaki or Shin-Isesaki on the Isesaki Line. Note that these trains share the lines until Ota station and use the same cars; Isesaki Line trains tend to leave on the hour, while Akagi line trains leave on the half hour. Local trains are also available for ï¿¥900-ï¿¥1100; these add an hour of travel time in general.
By car
Gunma has the highest proportion of car owners among all prefectures in Japan, and the vehicle is the preferred method of transport. Rental stations are readily available throughout the prefecture for those familiar with it, but for a tourist the most accessible lots are on the east side of Takasaki Station.
Entering the prefecture, the Kan-Etsu Expressway runs North-South through the prefecture, parallel to the free but heavily trafficked National Route 17, for entry from Saitama Prefecture or Niigata Prefecture. From the East, the Kita-Kanto Expressway runs to Tochigi Prefecture, parallel to National Route 50.
Virtually all signage in Gunma is bilingual, even in the most distant areas.