What kind of scenery comes to your mind when you hear "Kusatsu Onsen"? Surrounded by lush nature and said to have the largest amount of hot spring water in Japan, Kusatsu Onsen is a hot spring resort that many people long for. In this article, we will introduce the history and quality of Kusatsu Onsen, its attractive tourist spots, and how to access it from overseas.

What is Kusatsu Onsen?

About Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in Kusatsu Town, Agatsuma County, Gunma Prefecture. It boasts a history of over 1,200 years and is counted as one of Japan's three most famous hot springs.

Its defining features are its abundant supply of hot water and its high temperature. Over 32,300 liters of hot spring water gushes out every minute, and the hot spring water is acidic with a pH value of approximately 2.1, making it highly acidic. This gives it a strong bactericidal effect against germs, and it is said to be extremely effective.

It is said to be so effective that it is said that "there is no disease it cannot cure except lovesickness."

Location and access to Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen is located in the northwest of Gunma Prefecture and is easily accessible from Tokyo. If you take the Shinkansen, you can arrive from Tokyo via Karuizawa in about 2.5 hours. From Haneda Airport, it takes about 3.5 to 4 hours in total. If you take a car, you can access it in about 3 hours via the Kan'etsu Expressway. The fastest route when using public transportation will be described later.

Why is Kusatsu Onsen so recommended? We explain the reasons!

What is the reason that Kusatsu Onsen is loved by so many people? It's because of the rich variety of spring water, its diverse health benefits, and the natural beauty that can be enjoyed all year round.

A special time created by the atmosphere of a hot spring town

One of the attractions of Kusatsu Onsen that cannot be overlooked is the nostalgic atmosphere that permeates the entire hot spring town. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the town lined with traditional stone pavements and wooden buildings, while also soaking your feet in a foot bath.

The streets lined with shops selling local specialty products and long-established inns are bustling with people day and night, adding to the excitement of the trip. You can also experience massaging the hot spring water. At night, the area around the Yubatake is lit up, creating an even more fantastical atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy the hot springs in a romantic mood.

Enjoying the four seasons

Kusatsu Onsen offers different charms throughout the four seasons. In spring, the fresh greenery and flowers are beautiful, while in summer, the cool highland climate is comfortable. In autumn, the leaves change color, and in winter, the snowy scenery and the warmth of the hot springs create an exquisite contrast.

No matter what season you visit, you can enjoy the beauty and charm of the hot springs. The Yubatake area is especially picturesque in winter.

The water quality of Kusatsu Onsen and its effects!

Let's take a closer look at the water quality of Kusatsu Onsen. Understanding the main water qualities and their effects will broaden your options when you visit.

Characteristics and health benefits of sulfur springs

The sulfur springs, which are the main spring quality of Kusatsu Onsen, are highly acidic (pH 2.1) and have a strong bactericidal effect. This makes them effective in treating skin diseases, atopic dermatitis, cuts, etc. They also promote blood circulation and help relieve poor circulation and fatigue.

Skin beautifying effects and relaxation

Sulfur springs also have skin-beautifying effects. They help eliminate waste products from the skin and moisturize it, so they are recommended for people who suffer from dry or rough skin. Soaking in a hot spring also relaxes the body and mind, and is effective in relieving stress. The quiet atmosphere of the hot spring town also contributes to deepening relaxation.

Must-sees! Top 5 major tourist spots in Kusatsu Onsen

When you visit Kusatsu Onsen, be sure to enjoy not only the hot springs but also the surrounding tourist spots. Here are five particularly recommended tourist spots.

The charm of Yubatake

The Yubatake, a symbol of Kusatsu Onsen, is located in the center of the hot spring town, and the sight of hot spring water gushing out of the waterfall is a spectacular sight. It is lit up at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere. There are souvenir shops and restaurants in the surrounding area, so you can enjoy a stroll.

Sainokawara Park and Nature Walks

Sainokawara Park is a vast park with abundant nature. You can enjoy seasonal flowers and trees, and take in the beauty of nature while walking along the walking paths. There is also a foot bath in the park, which is perfect for soothing your tired feet after a long walk.

Mt. Shirane and Yugama

Mt. Shirane is an active volcano located near Kusatsu Onsen, and the surrounding area is filled with beautiful natural scenery. In particular, Yugama is a caldera lake formed by volcanic activity, and shows different faces depending on the season. It is a recommended spot for hiking and photography.

Kusatsu Tropical Zone

Kusatsu Tropical Park is a facility that displays a variety of tropical plants and animals. In a greenhouse that recreates a warm climate, you can get up close and personal with exotic plants and insects. It's a great destination for families and nature lovers.

Tsurutaro Kataoka Museum of Art

Tsurutaro Kataoka Museum of Art is an art gallery located near Kusatsu Onsen, showcasing the works of Tsurutaro Kataoka, a well-known actor and painter. At the museum, you can enjoy his paintings and ceramics, and spend a relaxing time interacting with art. There is also beautiful nature surrounding the museum, which you can enjoy strolling through. It is a very attractive spot for visitors looking for a cultural experience.

How to get to Kusatsu Onsen from overseas? From the international airport to Kusatsu Onsen

If you are visiting Kusatsu Onsen from overseas, the easiest way to get there is from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport). Here we will introduce how to use public transportation, focusing on the fastest route. Please use this as a reference so that you can arrive at the hot spring town smoothly without getting confused by differences in language and routes.

Fastest route: Using the "Kusatsu-Shima" Limited Express

From Haneda Airport to Ueno Station

・Transportation : Take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station (about 15 minutes, fare about 300 yen) → Take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station (about 15 minutes, fare about 170 yen)
・Travel time : approx. 40 minutes in total ・Total fare : approx. 800 yen

From Ueno Station to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station

・Transportation : Limited Express "Kusatsu-Shima"
・Journey time : Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes ・Fare : Approximately 5,940 yen (with reserved seat)

From Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station to Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal

・Transportation : Local bus
・Travel time : Approximately 25 minutes ・Fare : Approximately 710 yen

・Total time : Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes ・Total cost : Approximately 7,450 yen

The advantages of this route

・Speed : Since it uses express trains, there are few transfers and the journey is smooth.
- Comfort : The seats on the Kusatsu/Shima express trains are spacious, so you won't get tired even on long-distance journeys.
・Convenience : You can get to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station directly from Ueno Station, so it's convenient for those with large luggage.
・Scenery : You can enjoy the changing Japanese scenery throughout the seasons from the train window.

Points to note

・The Kusatsu-Shima Express has a limited number of trains, about 3 to 4 round trips per day, so we recommend checking the timetable and reserving a seat in advance.
・Tickets tend to sell out during peak seasons, so be sure to book your tickets early.
・You can make online reservations from overseas using JR East's "Eki-net" service.

If you use bus transportation

Limousine buses run from Haneda Airport to Tokyo Station, and you can also transfer to an express bus bound for Kusatsu Onsen from Tokyo Station.

It is relatively convenient as you only have to transfer once, but the journey takes about three and a half to four hours and the fare is around 4,000 to 5,000 yen.

Please be aware that depending on the season and road conditions, the route may be subject to traffic congestion.

summary

Kusatsu Onsen is loved by many people for its nostalgic atmosphere, rich spring water quality, diverse tourist attractions, and easy access.

Use this article as a reference to plan your trip to Kusatsu Onsen. A wonderful time that will refresh both your body and mind awaits you!