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It's Not Just Kusatsu Onsen! A Journey to Satisfy Both Mind and Body in Kusatsu Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture

2025年8月13日 16:39

It's Not Just Kusatsu Onsen! A Journey to Satisfy Both Mind and Body in Kusatsu Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture

When you hear the name Kusatsu Town in Agatsuma District, located in the northwestern part of Gunma Prefecture, many people likely think of one of Japan's three most famous hot springs, Kusatsu Onsen. However, the charm of this town is not limited to the quality of its spring water. Its rich nature, history, and gourmet food warmly welcome visitors. In this article, we will provide information to help you deeply enjoy Kusatsu Town, from classic Kusatsu Onsen spots to deeper attractions you'll want to venture a little further to experience.

Captivated by the Steaming Scenery of Yubatake

The symbol of Kusatsu Onsen is, without a doubt, Yubatake. The source, which gushes out 4,000 liters of hot spring water per minute, is filled with the scent of sulfur and steam. This dynamic sight is overwhelmingly impressive no matter when you visit. At night, it is illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere different from the daytime. Around Yubatake, foot baths and hot spring egg shops line the streets, allowing you to fully enjoy the hot spring atmosphere while strolling.

Experiencing Hot Spring Culture at "Netsu-no-Yu" and "Goza-no-Yu"

At Netsu-no-Yu, located near Yubatake, you can watch the traditional Kusatsu Onsen bathing method, Yumomi and Dance. "Yumomi," which involves stirring the high-temperature spring water with large wooden boards to lower the temperature without diluting it with water, is a valuable experience where you can feel the history and wisdom of Kusatsu Onsen.

Also, Goza-no-Yu, located right next to Yubatake, is a day-trip hot spring facility that recreates a public bathhouse that existed from the Edo to Meiji periods. In the retro atmosphere of the wooden building, you can enjoy two of the hot spring sources that represent Kusatsu Onsen: the "Yubatake Source" and the "Bandai Source."

Walking Through Great Nature: Seasonal Scenic Strolls

The charm of Kusatsu Town is not limited to the hot spring town. Because the entire town is located at an altitude of 1,200 meters, magnificent nature spreads out in the surrounding area.

Sainokawara Park

A walk from Yubatake takes you to Sainokawara Park, a place where countless hot spring sources gush out from the desolate rocky surface, making you feel as if you are touching the heartbeat of the earth. There are free foot baths and open-air baths in the park, where you can refresh yourself while feeling the energy of nature. In the autumn foliage season, the contrast between the red and yellow trees and the steam is breathtakingly beautiful.

Mount Shirane and Yumi-ike Pond

It is also recommended to venture a little further to Mount Shirane, which stands at an altitude of 2,160 meters. Depending on the season, you can enjoy the scenery of the Yugama crater lake with its beautiful emerald green surface, or the mystical Yumi-ike Pond. However, please be sure to check the latest information in advance, as access may be restricted due to volcanic activity.

Shiga Kusatsu Kogen Route

The Shiga Kusatsu Kogen Route, which passes through Mount Shirane and continues to Nagano Prefecture, is known as the highest national highway in Japan. You can enjoy spectacular views from your car window, especially during the fresh green season or the autumn foliage season.

Savoring the Rich Blessings of Kusatsu Town

After enjoying the hot springs and spectacular views, let's feast on dishes made with local ingredients. In the hot spring town, there are many shops where you can taste Joshu Beef, Akagi Chicken, which Gunma Prefecture is proud of, and highland vegetables grown in the rich nature.

Also, hot spring manju made with Kusatsu Onsen's mineral deposits, and hot spring eggs made from Kusatsu Onsen's source springs are perfect companions for a stroll. For souvenirs, local sake and Gunma Prefecture's specialty konjac are also well-received.

Kusatsu Town is a supreme place that satisfies the five senses

Kusatsu Town in Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture, is not just a place to soak in hot springs. It is truly a supreme place that satisfies the five senses, where you can have your senses stimulated by the powerful steam of the Yubatake, experience historic hot spring culture, and refresh both mind and body amidst magnificent nature.

For your next holiday, why not step out of the bustle of the hot spring town and set off to discover the deep charms of Kusatsu Town? It will surely be a wonderful trip that satisfies both your mind and body.