Apple Picking on Your Way to or from Ikaho Onsen
We are now in the second half of September, and apple season has arrived.
Shibukawa City is one of Gunma Prefecture’s major apple-growing areas, ranking third in the prefecture for apple production. Visitors can enjoy apple picking at orchards located throughout the city.
The apple-picking season generally runs from early September to early December, although opening periods vary by orchard and by year. We recommend checking directly with each orchard before visiting.
Here are three original apple varieties developed in Gunma Prefecture:
Oze no Beni
An early-season variety with a good balance of sweetness and acidity, along with a pleasant aroma. The apples turn a vivid red when ripe.
Season: late August to early September.
Yoko
A mid-season variety known for its crisp texture and well-balanced sweet-tart flavor.
Season: mid to late October.
Gunma Meigetsu
A late-season variety with yellow skin, plenty of juice, and a rich sweetness. It is one of Gunma’s most popular apple varieties.
Season: late October.
For more information and a list of sightseeing orchards, please see the Shibukawa City website.
Apple picking is a wonderful seasonal activity to enjoy on your way to or from Ikaho Onsen.