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Nestled in the scenic mountains of Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan's most beloved hot spring destinations. Known for its rich mineral waters and rejuvenating effects, Kusatsu attracts travelers seeking relaxation and a taste of authentic Japanese culture. Whether you’re soaking in the traditional yubatake or exploring the serene surroundings, Kusatsu Onsen promises a memorable retreat that blends wellness and natural beauty.
Stroll along lovely lanes in your cotton yukata and wooden sandals, taking in the perfume of Kusatsu Onsen, a genuine onsen village in Gunma onsen Prefecture.
How to Get There
Despite the lack of a train station in the town, Kusatsu onsen Ryokan is easily accessible.
The most convenient approach is to rent a vehicle and go along the Japan Romantic Road, which connects Nagano, Gunma, and Tochigi. The trip takes around three hours from Tokyo and one and a half hours from the Takasaki shinkansen station.
There are direct busses from the Shinjuku Bus Terminal. Take the JR Joshu Yumeguri-go bus to Kusatsu from Ikaho Onsen.
The nearest train station is Naganohara Kusatsuguchi Station. Direct express trains from Ueno take around two and a half hours. From there, get the 25-minute bus route to Kusatsu.
Events in Kusatsu:
- Flower Festival (May)
- Shirane Shrine Festival (July).
- Hot Springs Appreciation Festival (August).
- Kusatsu International Music Academy and Festival (August)
The Yubatake Hot Water Fields
This massive hot water system is the emblem and heart of Kusatsu Onsen. The characteristic perfume will direct you to the yubatake—literally translated as hot water field—in the middle of town. Geothermal water comes to the surface directly from the source and is cooled as it passes down a network of linked wooden chutes, retaining its natural mineral composition.
As the water rushes into the emerald reservoir, hot steam billows forth. Kusatsu Onsen contains the most naturally occurring hot spring town water in Japan.
The water is supposed to treat various illnesses and is especially beneficial to your skin because of its high temperatures (about 55 degrees Celsius) and acidity. Several Tokugawa shoguns had the water delivered in barrels to their palace in Edo (now Tokyo). You can take One-day maple viewing tour in Gunma
Traditions Around Hot Springs
You may simply walk from the yubatake to the Netsunoyu Hall to observe the yumomi performance. Onsen workers chill the water by dipping and rotating wooden boards, churning it to the rhythm of a folk song.
Strolling And Shopping
Explore the modest arts and crafts businesses along the short lane near the Netsunoyu, which include milky glass inspired by the water. Make sure to try onsen manju (steamed sweet buns) and onsen tamago (boiled eggs in hot springs). Follow the lane all the way to Sainokawara Park, where steaming hot spring water flows naturally.
Hotels Close to Kusatsu Onsen
Find the best hotels close to Kusatsu Onsen for a relaxing getaway. From traditional ryokans to modern stays, enjoy comfort and convenience just steps from Japan's iconic hot springs.
Oyado Yukizumi
Oyado Yukizumi is located in Kusatsu, 46 kilometers from Jigokudani Monkey Park. It offers free WiFi and private parking. This nonsmoking resort is 14 km from Mt. Kusatsu Shirane.
The air-conditioned rooms have a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a refrigerator, a kettle, a bidet/shower, complimentary amenities, and a desk. Every unit comes with a safe. The ryokan has 3-star accommodations, including a hot spring bath. The nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport, which is 107 kilometers from Oyado Yukizumi.
Soumeian
Soumeian is located in Kusatsu, 47 kilometers from Jigokudani Monkey Park. It has a garden, free private parking, and a communal lounge. This 3-star ryokan has baggage storage. This non-smoking ryokan has free WiFi throughout the resort and a hot spring bath. All of the ryokan's rooms have a flat-screen television and a safe. Soumeian's rooms include bed linens and towels. The property is 15 kilometers from Mt. Kusatsu Shirane. The nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport, which is 108 kilometers from Soumeian.
Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya
Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya is situated in Kusatsu. The hotel is a 10-minute stroll from Kusatsu Yubatake and the Kusatsu-Onsen Bus Terminal. Guests may enjoy a private hot spring bath and a Japanese restaurant on-site. All rooms at the ryokan have a flat-screen television, a refrigerator, and a closet.
Certain rooms have an in-room hot spring bath, while others have a kitchen with a microwave. The facility serves an Asian breakfast every morning. The communal lounge area has gaming consoles, board games, and playing cards. Guests at Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya will be able to enjoy activities in and around Kusatsu, including skiing. The nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport, which is 78 kilometers from Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya.
Kusatsu Hotel Bekkan Wata no Yu (Adult Only)
Kusatsu Hotel Bekkan Wata no Yu (Adult Only) is located in Kusatsu, 45 km from Jigokudani Monkey Park and 14 km from Mt. Kusatsu Shirane. It features a restaurant, free WiFi throughout the hotel, and free private parking for visitors who drive. Matsumoto Airport is 107 km distant.
Hanaingen
Hanaingen is an adult-only lodging in Kusatsu that is just a 2-minute walk from Yubatake, Kusatsu Onsen's hot water field. Free private parking is offered on-site, and all guest rooms have free WiFi. Guests who check in before 18:00 will enjoy complimentary welcome goodies. Every room at this ryokan is air-conditioned and equipped with a television.
The entire facility is smoke-free. There are four distinct types of private baths on-site that staying guests can enjoy for free. Shiseido and Kusatsu Onsen collaborated to manufacture shampoo, conditioner, and soap for the baths. This resort offers a complimentary breakfast including nutritious beans.
La Vista Kusatsu Hills
La Vista Kusatsu Hills is located in Kusatsu, 47 kilometers from Jigokudani Monkey Park. It has a garden, free private parking, a communal lounge, and a patio. This four-star hotel provides a 24-hour front desk and a complimentary shuttle service. The facility features a sauna, hot spring bath, restaurant, and free WiFi throughout.
The hotel's air-conditioned rooms have a closet, a kettle, a fridge, a minibar, a safe, a flat-screen TV, a balcony, and a private bathroom with a bidet and shower. At La Vista Kusatsu Hills, all rooms include bed linen and towels. Every morning, guests may enjoy a buffet breakfast. Mt. Kusatsu Shirane is 15 km from La Vista Kusatsu Hills. Matsumoto Airport is 107 km distant.
Ryokan Tamura
Ryokan Tamura provides accommodation in Kusatsu with free WiFi, 600 metres from Kusatsu Nettaiken and 2.1 kilometers from Kusatsu Kokusai Ski Resort. Yubatake and Kusatsu Onsen are popular tourist destinations around the property.
Every room in the ryokan has a flat-screen television. Each room has a communal bathroom. Guest rooms have a sitting space. Guests can enjoy the hot spring bath. Guests may enjoy skiing near Ryokan Tamura.
The lodging is located 18 kilometers from Omote Manza and 20 kilometers from Manza Onsen. Matsumoto Airport is 108 kilometers from the property.
Kusatsu Onsen Kusatsu Hotel 1913
The Kusatsu Hotel, built in 1913, represents the Japanese Taisho Era architectural style. Guests at the hotel may relax in the indoor or outdoor public hot spring bath, a private hot spring, or a peaceful footbath. Yubatake Hot Springs and Sai-no-Kawara Park are just a few minutes' walk away. The facility provides free WIFI in the lobby, parking, and free pick-up from the Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal until 18:00.
Conclusion
Kusatsu Onsen offers an unforgettable experience where relaxation meets Japanese tradition. From its healing waters to scenic beauty, Kusatsu is a destination worth every moment. The combination of natural hot springs, cultural charm, and tranquil surroundings makes Kusatsu Onsen a perfect getaway to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature.
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