Japan Kusatsu Onsen Day Trip | Yubatake・Yumomi Performance・Departure from Tokyo Station
- Visit Yubatake, the iconic landmark of Kusatsu Onsen, to admire the unique scenery of swirling steam and experience the rich atmosphere of the hot spring town.
- Stroll through the Kusatsu Onsen street, explore unique shops and souvenirs, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the hot spring town.
- Enjoy the traditional 'Yumomi' performance, witness the unique local technique of stirring the hot spring water with wooden boards, and gain a deeper understanding of the hot spring culture passed down in Kusatsu (includes 'Yumomi' performance ticket).
- Experience the Japanese-style streetscape around Yubatake and walk along the hot spring street to capture the unique photo spot of Kusatsu.
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Product Info
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Depart from Tokyo for a leisurely trip to Kusatsu Onsen, a popular hot spring resort in Japan, and immerse yourself in the Japanese atmosphere of this charming town.
Stroll through Kusatsu Onsen town, admire the iconic 'Yubatake,' experience the unique scenery of rising hot spring steam, and watch the traditional 'Yumomi' performance to deeply experience the Japanese hot spring culture that has been passed down through generations.
First, visit the most iconic 'Yubatake' in Kusatsu Onsen, where you can see the endless flow of hot spring water and the swirling white steam. Walking around Yubatake to soak in the rich hot spring town atmosphere is a must-visit photo spot in Kusatsu.
Next, wander through the Kusatsu Onsen streets, freely exploring local shops, snacks, desserts, and souvenirs. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the town and take in the traditional Japanese streetscape.
The itinerary also includes the famous 'Yumomi' performance, where you can watch the traditional technique of using wooden boards to stir and cool the hot spring water. Accompanied by rhythmic music, you can experience Kusatsu's unique hot spring culture up close.
Visit Yubatake, stroll through the hot spring town, and enjoy the spectacular Yumomi show. Without the need to plan your own transportation, you can easily explore the most iconic attractions and culture of Kusatsu Onsen and enjoy a day trip full of Japanese charm.
Kusatsu Onsen is famous for having the highest volume of naturally flowing hot spring water in Japan, with over 32,300 liters gushing out every minute, and is one of Japan's three most famous hot springs. Located in the center of the hot spring town, 'Yubatake' produces about 4,000 liters of hot spring water per minute, sending up clouds of white steam. The area around Yubatake features tiled walkways, stone railings, and benches shaped like Mount Shirane. At night, Yubatake is illuminated, creating a dreamlike scene.
A traditional Japanese hot spring facility that restores the Edo-period public bath 'Matsunoyu.' Built entirely of cypress and fed by Yubatake hot spring water, it is a classic spot in Kusatsu Onsen that you cannot miss. Because the water drawn here is high-temperature and strongly acidic, it is said that even soaking your hands and feet for a few minutes provides the benefits of a full bath. The hot spring is said to be effective in soothing neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, and relieving fatigue.
'Jizo-do' was built in 1808, and in front of the hall is the local public bath 'Jizo no Yu.' There is also a 'Jizo no Yu Footbath' and a small hot spring pool called 'Jizo Gensen' in front of the bath. The water used in the footbath is drawn from this source. 'Jizo Gensen' bubbles up naturally next to Jizo-do. The Jizo Bodhisattva enshrined inside is also known as the 'Eye-washing Jizo,' and it has been said since ancient times to be beneficial for eye diseases. Visiting here allows you to experience not only the traditional hot spring culture of Kusatsu Onsen but also the serene and unique landscape of Jizo-do and its source.
Performers use long wooden boards to stir the high-temperature hot spring water to the rhythm of music, naturally cooling it down. As a traditional bathing culture passed down from the Edo period, 'Yumomi' combines music and dance into a spectacular live performance, making it one of the most popular experiences in Kusatsu Onsen.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure・Destination: Tokyo・Gunma Kusatsu
Duration: Day Trip
Transportation: Bus
Bus Company: Sunshine Trading Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation: None
Minimum Group Size: 7
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: Sunshine Trading Co., Ltd.
Address: 1-1-1 Shinmei-minami, Adachi-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Tokyo Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-7084
Travel Agency Association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Full Member
Reminders
A minimum of 7 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: Epilepsy, Pregnant women, Asthma, Acrophobia, Heart disease, High blood pressure
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Please ensure that the contact phone number/APP provided remains reachable during your trip to Japan. No refunds or compensation will be provided if you are unable to join the tour due to being unreachable or late.
Vehicle type: Arranged according to the number of passengers. For small groups, a driver who also serves as an on-board assistant will provide full-trip service; no separate tour leader or guide will be provided. Some drivers may use translation software to communicate with passengers; please be aware of this before booking. This is a shared tour, and you will be traveling with other passengers. Please strictly adhere to the designated stay duration at each attraction and cooperate with the tour leader or driver-guide. Small groups of 7–14 people will be accompanied by a driver-guide who does not accompany passengers off the vehicle; bus tours of 15–49 people will be assigned a dedicated tour guide. Actual arrangements will be adjusted based on the number of participants on the day.
This tour includes a complimentary 'Yumomi' performance ticket; the value of the ticket is not included in the tour fee. If the visit is not possible due to weather, traffic control, temporary closure of the attraction, government announcements, force majeure, or itinerary adjustments made by the travel agency, or if the traveler chooses not to attend for personal reasons, it will be considered a voluntary forfeiture of the complimentary item. No refunds, cash equivalents, or other compensation will be provided. Thank you for your understanding.
If the tour is canceled due to force majeure (including natural disasters, war, strikes, government orders, mechanical failure, traffic accidents, or other circumstances beyond our control) before departure, we will provide a full refund of the tour fee. If the tour is terminated on the day of departure or during the trip due to the aforementioned reasons, the remaining balance will be refunded after deducting actual expenses incurred. No additional compensation will be provided in such cases, and any other losses or extra expenses incurred must be borne by the traveler. The return time may be delayed due to traffic or weather conditions, especially during holidays when traffic congestion is more likely. We will flexibly adjust the itinerary based on the actual situation, and the return time may be later than expected. If you have a night flight or subsequent plans on the same day, please allow sufficient time to avoid any disruption. Please note that no refunds or compensation will be provided for delays. Travelers with tight flight schedules are advised to carefully evaluate their plans before booking.
Bus seating is one seat per person to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers; seat selection is not available in advance. Depending on the actual bookings, you may be seated next to a passenger of a different gender; we appreciate your understanding. According to local Japanese regulations, children aged 3 and above must occupy a seat, and therefore must pay the same price as adults. If you are traveling with children, please inform our customer service when booking. If not notified in advance and the relevant fees are not paid, the tour guide reserves the right to refuse boarding to the child and their guardian if the vehicle becomes overloaded. In such cases, we assume no responsibility, and no refunds will be provided; any additional losses must be borne by the traveler. Thank you for your cooperation.
Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult with full civil capacity. Travelers aged 70 and above are recommended to be accompanied by family or friends and must sign a disclaimer on the day of departure. To ensure your safety and the rights of other group members, please inform us of any chronic illnesses, mobility issues, or other special health conditions at the time of booking so we can make appropriate arrangements. Any costs incurred for special assistance required due to personal reasons must be borne by the traveler.
Please inform us in advance if you are bringing multiple or large pieces of luggage. Each passenger is limited to one suitcase.
The return time is for reference only. Actual arrival times may be earlier than expected due to smooth travel conditions or traffic, or delayed due to traffic congestion or other force majeure events. If you have a night flight or subsequent plans on the same day, please allow sufficient time to avoid any disruption to your schedule.
Please bring your own towel for the footbath experience.
FAQ
1. When is the best time to visit Kusatsu Onsen for an enjoyable experience?
Kusatsu Onsen offers distinct beauty in every season. Winter, from December to February, is magical with snow, enhancing the hot spring atmosphere. Spring, between March and May, features cherry blossoms in nearby areas, while autumn, from September to November, showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer, from June to August, provides a pleasant escape with lush greenery. The iconic Yubatake's unique steam is captivating year-round.
2. What are the primary transportation options to reach Kusatsu Onsen from Tokyo?
The most common ways to reach Kusatsu Onsen from Tokyo are by direct highway bus or a combination of train and bus. Direct highway buses from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku are convenient, typically taking about 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a JR Shinkansen or Limited Express train to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station, then transfer to a local bus for a 25-30 minute ride directly to the Kusatsu Onsen bus terminal. Consider your preferred travel time and convenience.
3. What is Kusatsu Onsen's reputation or ranking among Japan's hot springs?
Kusatsu Onsen consistently ranks as one of Japan's top three hot springs, frequently earning the number one spot for its exceptional quality and abundant natural spring water. It is highly regarded for its highly acidic water, which is believed to possess significant therapeutic properties. Its strong reputation stems from centuries of history and the unique cultural practices that revolve around its continuously flowing hot springs.
4. What specific activities and attractions can visitors enjoy at Kusatsu Onsen?
Visitors to Kusatsu Onsen can wander around the iconic Yubatake, the central hot spring field, and experience its unique steamy ambiance. Exploring the charming Kusatsu Onsen street reveals specialty shops and local souvenirs. A highlight is the traditional Yumomi performance, where hot spring water is stirred with wooden boards. Additionally, visitors can enjoy public baths or footbaths, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of the traditional Japanese streetscape.
5. What are the defining features that make Kusatsu Onsen a renowned destination?
Kusatsu Onsen is primarily defined by its exceptionally high volume and quality of naturally flowing spring water, known for its strong acidity and reputed therapeutic properties. Its most iconic feature is the Yubatake, an open-air hot spring field that cools and distributes water while creating a dramatic steamy spectacle. The traditional Yumomi performance, a historical method of cooling the water without dilution, also showcases the town's deep-rooted onsen culture and unique character.
6. What makes the Yubatake (hot spring field) at Kusatsu Onsen a unique landmark to visit?
The Yubatake is the captivating heart of Kusatsu Onsen. It's distinguished by its unique system of wooden conduits that cool the hot spring water before it's distributed to various baths. This intricate setup creates a mesmerizing visual of natural steam constantly rising into the air, set against traditional wooden structures. Beyond its function, it serves as a vibrant central hub where visitors gather to observe this natural wonder and truly experience the essence of Kusatsu's rich onsen culture.
7. What is the traditional Yumomi performance at Kusatsu Onsen, and what does it involve?
The traditional Yumomi performance at Kusatsu Onsen is a unique cultural practice designed to cool the extremely hot spring water to a comfortable bathing temperature without adding cold water, which would dilute its potency. Performers, often in traditional attire, rhythmically stir the hot spring water with large wooden boards while singing folk songs. This engaging show not only cools and aerates the water but also demonstrates a centuries-old technique crucial to preserving Kusatsu's hot spring quality, offering a deep dive into local culture.
8. What kind of experience can visitors expect while strolling the Kusatsu Onsen street?
Strolling the Kusatsu Onsen street offers a charming and immersive experience of a traditional Japanese hot spring town. Visitors can soak in the nostalgic atmosphere, often accompanied by the distinct aroma of sulfur from the hot springs. The street is lined with a variety of specialty shops selling local crafts, unique onsen-related goods, and delicious regional snacks like onsen manju. It's an ideal setting to find souvenirs, sample local delicacies, and enjoy the picturesque Japanese-style streetscape surrounding the Yubatake.
