Ikaho stone steps and store hours

Hello,

What are the Ikaho stone steps like at night in mid-November?

I am planning to arrive there at around 5pm, but I wonder if stores will be mostly closed by then? (i.e. around what time do the souvenir, manju, etc. stores open and close each day in mid-Nov?) It is really hard to find information about this.

I'm guessing that restaurants will probably be open still, but I wonder about the general vibe of the area at night (is it pretty much dead?), and I don't want to miss out on the hustle and bustle of the shops too.

Maybe I should reconsider the schedule to arrive earlier?

I read also that Kajika bridge is lit up at night?

Thank you,
Emily

We were in Ikado late April and upon arrival in the afternoon we walked through Ishidangai. To our surprise it was very quiet with less than a dozen people walking up and down the stone steps. Many stores were closed and it was doubtful whether those that still opened would stay open after dark. I think most visitors stay in the ryokans to enjoy the onsen and the dinner rather than going out in the evenings.

After going there in the afternoon, we did not go in the evening but we did read that Kajika Bridge is lighted up after dark and it is said to be especially beautiful during autumn foliage season.
http://www.visitgunma.jp/en/sightseeing/detail.php?sightseeing_id=31

Thank you William5 - I appreciate your sharing your personal experience there.