"Kusatsu Onsen" Hot Springs is one of Japan's three most famous hot springs (the other two are Arima Onsen and Gero Onsen). It is only about two and a half hours away from Tokyo and is a very well-known destination in Japan.
"Kusatsu Onsen" Hot Springs is 1,200 meters above sea level with plenty of hiking courses that will allow you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. There is also an unusual spot, called the "Yubatake," where onsen water gushes out from the ground and flows like a waterfall. It is said that the town in the "Kusatsu Onsen" Hot Springs area was built around the Yubatake.
"Kusatsu Onsen" Hot Springs pumps out roughly 32,300 liters of onsen water, enough to fill about 230,000 barrels, every day. The onsen water is known for its germicidal properties – the acidity is strong enough to kill various kinds of bacteria, like E. coli, in less than a minute. Many years ago, it was said to be a cure-all for any kind of ailment, other than a broken heart. Today, it is known to be effective against germ-related illnesses and various kinds of inflammations. Players from the local Kusatsu soccer team, The Spa Kusatsu, are known to visit when they suffer cuts and bruises.
The town continues to maintain a historic look and even just a stroll around the area will give you a good feel for Japanese culture. Kusatsu is a wonderful place where you can enjoy the onsen (Hot Springs), the beautiful nature, and the Japanese culture.
About thirty minutes away from the main onsen area, at the summit of Mt. Shirane, is a white onsen called the Yugama.
There's also hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
*Access to the mountain is currently closed due to the impact of volcanic activity.
In the middle of the town there is an area called the "Yubatake," where 230,000 barrels of onsen water flow out of the ground every day. The water temperature is over fifty-three degrees Celsius. People once used wooden paddles to mix and cool (yumomi) the water down.
There are streets in Kusatsu that still retain the original look and feel from many years ago. Taking walks in these areas is a great way to get a taste of Japanese culture.
Located deep within Sainokawara Park is Kusatsu’s number one open-air rock bath. If you take a dip in this 500 square meter bath, which is completely surrounded by nature, there is no doubt that you will be able to relax
Open Daily, 7:00 - 20:00
*From 9:00 Only on Dec. 1 - Mar. 31
Last admission at 19:30
Open all year
Adults 700 yen
Children 350 yen
» More information can be found at the official website.
39-5 Kusatsu-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma, 377-1797 Japan
TEL : 0279-88-3722
(Int'l : +81-279-88-3722)
FAX : 0279-88-3183
(Int'l : +81-279-88-3183)