【Gunma Car Trip】A free-spirited drive! Enjoying heartwarming udon at the Showa diner "Haruna Lake Tsurya"

The author, visiting Lake Haruna in Gunma Prefecture, took a drive along the lakeside with no particular purpose. Tempted by the tranquility, I took a nap and discovered an old-fashioned diner while strolling around. There, I found nostalgic Showa air and heartwarming episodes.

The tranquil atmosphere of Lake Haruna

Last time, the author visited Gunma Prefecture for a pilgrimage to the sacred site of "Initial D." I explored the downhill of "Mount Haruna," which is the model for Akina Pass, and Ikaho Onsen.

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Lake Haruna is a caldera lake located at an elevation of 1,084 meters in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, formed by the collapse of the ground due to a volcanic eruption. Since it was early on a weekday morning, there were no tourists, making it very quiet and calming. Having traveled early in the morning, I was tempted by the tranquility and dozed off a little in the car.

The mountain silhouette nearby, resembling Mount Fuji, is Mount Haruna, which also has a ropeway and is a scenic spot. With little vehicle traffic in the area, most vehicles were heading towards Mount Haruna. Curiously, I later found out that there are hot spring facilities along the lakeshore in that direction.

At the souvenir shop "Okurabou Kobayashi" by Lake Haruna, many Initial D goods are sold, including stickers of Mount Haruna along with Akina stickers. I also purchased a chocolate crunch in an Hachiroku box. This spot is highly recommended for those on a pilgrimage to the sacred site.

The dining establishment "Haruna Lake Tsurya" at Lake Haruna

As I drove along the lakeside, it seemed that snow had fallen a few days ago, as snow remained by the roadside. Snow was also left near the top of Lake Haruna, making it feel like you are in a high-altitude area.

While driving, I found a quaint, old-fashioned restaurant in front of the boat dock. Since I hadn't eaten breakfast, I headed to the shop, and at the same time, a local lady who was visiting the shop announced to the store, "We have customers!" This local vibe is nice...

Upon entering the store, which had a strong Showa era atmosphere, there was a large cat lazily standing at the entrance. Even when I gently patted its head, it remained dozy and unmoving. While I was choosing a seat, the shop lady came from the back and served me tea.

What caught my eye on the menu was the wakasagi (small smelt) set meal, but since it was morning and I wanted something light, I ordered Haruna Udon. Seeing items like amazake and oden gave me a feeling as if I had come to a drive-in.

The shop filled with souvenirs was very quiet, but I could hear the cheerful conversation of the local lady, creating a soothing atmosphere. As I gazed at the lakeside view from the counter, my meal arrived. The Haruna Udon had a fragrant broth with wild vegetables and mushrooms, and it was heartwarming and delicious. It had a homemade, homely taste, and the pink kamaboko (fish cake) added a nice touch.

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