Tatebayashi, Castle town in eastern Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Tatebayashi is a city in eastern Gunma that covers 61 square kilometers between the Watarase River and Tone River, roughly 60 kilometers north of Tokyo in the Kanto region. The city offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, green spaces, and historical sites along the two waterways.
The settlement grew around a castle built by the Akai clan in the 15th century. Sakakibara Yasumasa later reinforced the structure after Tokugawa Ieyasu's victories and helped establish the town as an important stronghold in eastern Kanto.
The Gunma Museum of Art displays modern sculptures and maintains a pathway with 40 artworks through a pine forest near the museum. Visitors can view the pieces along the trail while enjoying the natural surroundings at their own pace.
The Tobu Isesaki express train Ryomo from Asakusa station in Tokyo brings travelers here in about one hour. Once in town, visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, and parks on foot or by bicycle.
The town holds the world record for displaying 5,000 carp-shaped streamers during its Village Festival from March through May. The colorful banners hang over streets and waterways, creating an impressive backdrop for visitors during the festival season.
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