Unveiling Kusatsu Onsen: Japan’s Premier Hot Springs Oasis

Kusatsu Onsen, a picturesque Japanese town, offers a diverse array of accommodations to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Japanese homes or indulge in some luxury, there’s something for everyone. A highlight of staying in Kusatsu Onsen is the unique experience of using hot water sourced directly from the town’s volcanic springs. Many accommodations here boast their own private onsens, adding a touch of exclusivity and serenity to your stay.

Our Stay at Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya: A Blend of Location, Comfort, and Hospitality

During our visit, we had the pleasure of staying at Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya. This choice stood out for several reasons: its prime location close to the city center, the cozy and inviting atmosphere of its rooms and the unparalleled hospitality of its staff. Eidaya offers the luxury of a private hot spring, ensuring a tranquil and rejuvenating experience. Additionally, the facility includes communal areas for guests to enjoy and the thoughtful provision of a pick-up and drop-off service adds to the convenience of your stay.

Affordable Ryokan Options: Comfort Without the Cost

For those on a budget, Minpaku Gyoten offers a cozy, hostel-style stay in a beautifully renovated guesthouse. Built over half a century ago, it provides a peaceful retreat. Similarly, Hotel New Koyo, a short walk from Kusatsu Bus Terminal, combines convenience with the luxury of hot spring baths and diverse dining options. Both accommodations are easily bookable online, adding to their appeal.

Mid-Budget Stays with Traditional Flair

Kusatsu-onsen Hotel Resort, set at the top a hill, offers stunning views and a variety of indoor hot springs. With entertainment options like table tennis and arcade games, plus a convenient shuttle service, it’s a perfect blend of fun and relaxation. The on-site gift shop and nightly buffet dinners add to the experience making it an excellent mid-budget choice.

Indulge in Ryokan Luxury

For those seeking luxury, Shibu Onsen Kokuya and Hotel Sakurai stand out. Shibu Onsen Kokuya, is located near the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, offers private outdoor baths, a spa and exquisite dining. Hotel Sakurai, in the heart of Kusatsu Onsen, provides easy access to local attractions, an outdoor pool and a range of entertainment options. Both offer an unparalleled luxury ryokan experience, ideal for romantic getaways.

Experiencing the traditional Japanese onsen is the perfect way to unwind after an exhilarating day on the slopes. These soothing hot springs are a hallmark of Japan’s rich cultural heritage, offering a unique blend of relaxation and tradition.

In Kusatsu Onsen, a renowned hot spring destination, you’ll find an array of onsens, including complimentary ones scattered around the town. Among these, Okina no Yu stands out as a notable, free-to-use hot spring, celebrated for its accessibility and natural beauty.

Navigating Onsens with Tattoos

The topic of tattoos in onsens often raises many questions, especially from those with body art. As someone with a half sleeve and multiple tattoos, I initially had concerns about accessing onsens. To address this, I turned to technology, using Google Translate to inquire at the onsen’s reception if tattoos were permitted. The response? A welcoming nod, representing the respect and friendliness that Japanese culture is famed for.

It’s essential to understand that tattoos in Japan have historically been viewed through a different lens, often associated with organized crime, such as the Yakuza. This perspective has led to certain restrictions in onsens. However, the times are evolving. A growing number of onsens are now accommodating tattooed guests, particularly international tourists, reflecting a shift in cultural norms and attitudes.

If you’re tattooed and planning to visit an onsen, it’s courteous and wise to ask about their tattoo policy beforehand. This gesture not only shows respect for Japanese customs but also ensures a smooth and enjoyable onsen experience for everyone involved.

Embracing the Onsen Experience: A Guide to Going All Naturel

Embarking on an onsen journey in Japan introduces you to the traditional “textile-free” culture, which simply means embracing nudity. For those of us from places where public nudity isn’t the norm, like Australia, this can initially feel like a leap out of our comfort zone. However, onsens are gender-separated, offering a comfortable environment for all. Ladies, rest assured you will only be sharing this tranquil experience with other women, far from the prying eyes of the opposite sex.

Once you immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters of an onsen, any initial hesitation dissolves into a sense of relaxation. But before you dive in, there’s a rule every onsen-goer must clean themselves thoroughly. Cleanliness is paramount. Onsen facilities provide areas where you can thoroughly cleanse yourself before entering the baths. Skipping this step could get you asked to leave, so consider it essential prep for your skin’s ultimate rejuvenation session.

Luxurious Private Onsen Experiences

For those seeking a more secluded and upscale onsen experience, be prepared to invest between 5,000 to 10,000 Japanese yen. Private onsens offer an exclusive escape, perfect for those looking to indulge in luxury. A couple of recommendations for top-tier private bathing experiences include:

Kusatsu Now Resort:
Just a 5-minute drive from Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal, this resort combines convenience with luxury, offering a serene setting for those looking to unwind in privacy.

Kusatsu Onsen Ryokan Tamura:
Known for its opulent private baths, Tamura provides an intimate onsen experience, allowing guests to enjoy the therapeutic waters in luxury and tranquillity.

The image of those enchanting red-faced monkeys, immortalized by Sir David Attenborough’s mesmerizing narration on National Geographic, captures the imagination of many. Like countless others, I was drawn to the idea of witnessing these beautiful creatures in their natural hot spring habitats after seeing them featured in a Japan-centric episode.

Although Kusatsu Onsen itself isn’t home to these famous snow monkeys, they are within a reachable distance of 1 to 2 hours, making for an irresistible side trip during your stay.

The Jigokudani Monkey Park, the closest haven for these snow monkeys, is accessible by a car rental for those preferring to explore at their own pace. Conveniently, car rentals are available next to the bus terminal in Kusatsu Onsen. While costs vary, this travel experience gives you the freedom to explore quaint local towns along the way, adding layers to your adventure.

For those who prefer a more structured approach or are hesitant to navigate on their own, bus services and guided tour groups provide options to visit the snow monkeys. These tours are easily found online, offering a hassle-free way to ensure you don’t miss out on this unique experience.

Additionally, many accommodations in the area provide guests with information and tips on how to best enjoy a visit to the snow monkeys.

Kusatsu Onsen isn’t just a winter wonderland, it’s a destination with activities throughout all seasons. Whether you’re visiting in the lush spring, the warm summer, the colourful autumn, or the snowy winter Kusatsu Onsen has something special to offer.

Hiking Adventures Amidst Stunning Scenery

The area around Kusatsu Onsen is a hiker’s paradise, featuring breathtaking alpine landscapes dotted with pristine lakes and framed by two active volcanoes. The dramatic terrain promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.

One of the highlights for avid hikers is Mt. Shirane, a majestic 2,578m peak straddling the borders between Gunma and Tochigi prefectures. For those seeking a challenge, several trails lead to the summit, offering a rigorous 5-6 hour hike.

Alternatively, for a quicker and more accessible ascent, the Mt. Nikko Shirane Ropeway whisks visitors to an observation spot in just 15 minutes. At the Ropeway Summit Station, the Sky Terrace Café awaits, offering light meals, refreshing drinks, and the unique perk of a free foot bath, allowing you to relax while soaking up the panoramic views.

Local Shopping and Culinary Delights

For those who love to shop, Kusatsu Onsen delivers a delightful experience on Sainokawara-dōri Street. This bustling locale is a treasure trove of local crafts, exquisite pottery and quintessential Japanese gifts. As you wander through the street, you’ll also encounter a variety of stalls and shops offering delicious traditional Japanese treats, a perfect for satisfying your culinary curiosity.

Kusatsu Onsen introduced me to the exquisite world of Soba noodles for the very first time. Soba, a cherished staple of Japanese cuisine, is crafted from buckwheat flour and water, creating a noodle that’s both delicious and distinctive.

These noodles are traditionally served in a rich broth, brimming with succulent meat, vibrant vegetables and an array of flavourful seasonings. The unique tradition of slurping Soba noodles not only enhances the eating experience but also pays homage to its cultural roots.

When visiting Japan, indulging in a bowl of Soba and embracing the art of slurping is an absolute must-do.

Navigating the local culinary scene can be a bit of a challenge, as many menus are exclusively in Japanese. My top tip is to leverage Google Translates camera mode to effortlessly translate menu items into English or your preferred language. This handy tool turns dining out into a seamless experience.

For those who prefer the convenience of English menus, there are plenty of restaurants ready to welcome you with understandable menus.

My culinary exploration didn’t stop at Soba, I embarked on a passionate quest for the best Karaage in town. Karaage, Japan’s answer to fried chicken, is an addictive treat. The chicken is marinated, coated in a mix of potato starch, cornstarch, or flour, and then deep-fried to perfection. The result? Crispy, juicy chicken that’s simply irresistible, especially when paired with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a dollop of creamy Kewpie mayonnaise.

In my quest through Kusatsu Onsen, I discovered some truly exceptional Karaage spots and I’m excited to share my top pick for the best Karaage restaurant in Kusatsu Onsen. Child, Izakaya Restaurant a spot not only perfected the art of Japanese fried chicken but also many various japanese dishes.

In the heart of Kusatsu, I’ve uncovered dining gems that are a must-visit for any food lover. These establishments are not just about the food, they are about the experience, combining cool vibes with top-notch cuisine. Let me guide you through my personal favourites, where traditional meets trendy and every bite tells a story:

Yasuragitei
Nestled in a charming setting, Yasuragitei is a culinary experience specializing in traditional homemade Soba noodles. This cozy eatery exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for those seeking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese dining.

Beyond Soba, Yasuragitei offers a plethora of traditional dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. With a menu rich in variety and a price range of approximately 1000 to 2000 Japanese yen, it’s an affordable luxury for authentic cuisine lovers.

Matsumoto
Matsumoto is a great find located along the bustling restaurant and shopping alleys of Kusatsu.

This udon noodle restaurant is renowned for its dedication to quality and flavour, offering a menu that perfectly captures the essence of Japanese comfort food.

A must-try here is the local maitake mushroom paired with scrumptious tempura.

Kusatsu Onsen Pudding: A Dessert Lover’s Paradise
For those with a sweet tooth, Kusatsu Onsen Pudding is a destination unto itself.

This popular dessert spot has made a name for itself with its vast array of Japanese desserts, captivating the hearts of locals and travellers alike.

A pro tip is to make sure to visit in the morning, as their delectable desserts tend to sell out by the afternoon. The anticipation of a queue underscores its popularity, but the wait is worth it for a taste of their heavenly treats.