Kusatsu Onsen Highlights
Kusatsu Onsen – One of Japan’s Most Famous Hot Springs
Kusatsu Onsen boasts Japan’s highest natural hot spring flow, with approximately 4,000 liters of hot spring water gushing from Yubatake every minute. Enjoy the natural bounty of the earth while exploring Yubatake, dining, and trying local foods along the way.
Yubatake – The Symbol of Kusatsu
Located in the heart of the hot spring town, Yubatake releases approximately 4,000 liters of hot spring water every minute, creating clouds of white steam. The area features tiled walking paths, stone fences, and benches inspired by Mt. Shirane. At night, the illuminated Yubatake creates a magical atmosphere.
Netsu no Yu – Experience the Traditional Charm of Kusatsu
Located near Yubatake, Netsu no Yu is famous for its traditional Yumomi Show, where performers use long wooden boards to stir and cool the hot spring water while singing to the rhythm of the Kusatsu folk song. Every evening, you can also enjoy Onsen Rakugo, a traditional Japanese storytelling performance by professional rakugo performers, for a unique Kusatsu experience.
Yumomi & Dance Show Admission Fee (additional charge):
Adults: JPY 700 (tax included) / Elementary school students: JPY 350 (tax included)
Tickets can be purchased only at the ticket counter starting 30 minutes before each performance.
Reservations are not accepted.
Sainokawara Park
Once feared as a place called “Oni no Sensui” (Demon’s Fountain), this vast riverside area is dotted with pools of naturally flowing hot spring water steaming among volcanic rocks. From sunset until 10:00 PM, the park is beautifully illuminated, making it a wonderful place for an atmospheric evening stroll.
Shiraito Falls, Karuizawa
There are several famous waterfalls across Japan known as Shiraito Falls, but Karuizawa’s Shiraito Falls is particularly popular for its graceful beauty, with countless streams of water flowing gently down a wide rock face. The white waterfalls contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery and moss-covered rocks, creating a stunning natural landscape.
Located in the Kita-Karuizawa area, the falls appear as you follow a clear stream through the forest. Standing approximately 3 meters high and 70 meters wide, Shiraito Falls offers an impressive panoramic view.
Fed by underground water from Mount Asama, the waterfall maintains a steady flow regardless of the weather and remains crystal clear throughout the year. With its cool, refreshing atmosphere, it is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature.
Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street
Located along the former Nakasendo route, Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street is one of Karuizawa’s most iconic shopping streets. The area is lined with a variety of shops, from historic inns with over 400 years of history and long-established bakeries to boutiques offering imported fashion. It is one of Karuizawa’s most popular attractions, bustling with visitors throughout the year.
Kumoba Pond – Beautiful in Every Season
Fed by the clear waters of Gozensui, Kumoba Pond is one of Karuizawa’s most scenic attractions. Surrounded by lush woodland, the pond offers beautiful views that change with the seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquil natural beauty characteristic of Karuizawa.
Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Village
Located in Kusatsu Town, Gunma Prefecture, this spacious hot spring resort offers a variety of Kusatsu’s famous hot springs in a peaceful setting away from everyday life. Surrounded by lush forests, the resort also features a wide range of entertainment facilities and activities. Guests can enjoy a buffet featuring seasonal specialties and locally sourced ingredients.
Dinner Buffet
Enjoy a buffet featuring approximately 40 different dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients sourced from Kusatsu Town and the surrounding area.
Kusatsu Onsen & Three Natural Hot Spring Sources
The spacious public baths use water from the source of Yubatake, the symbol of Kusatsu Onsen. The open-air baths offer a relaxing experience surrounded by the sounds of nature and seasonal scenery.
The Terme Terme Bath uses the Bandai-ko source, one of Kusatsu’s most abundant and relatively strong hot spring sources. You can also experience the rare Watanoyu source, known for its milky-white water and gentle, soothing feel on the skin.
Guests can also experience Jikan-yu, a unique group bathing method that has been practiced in Kusatsu Onsen since the early Meiji period.
A Wide Variety of Activities (some require an additional fee)
Make the most of the resort’s vast 100,000-tsubo grounds and beautiful natural surroundings. Activities include a heated swimming pool with a 24-meter swimming zone, golf, tennis, archery, and the Forest Stage, offering something for everyone from families to seniors.
There are also plenty of indoor activities to enjoy even on rainy days, including bowling, table tennis, and billiards.
