Kusatsu Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and culture of Kusatsu through our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the must-visit places, local culture, food scene, and more for a memorable trip.


Introduction to Kusatsu

Kusatsu is a picturesque onsen (hot spring) resort town located in the Gunma prefecture, in the Kanto region of Japan. The town is known for its therapeutic hot springs, natural beauty, and scenic views. Kusatsu is situated at the base of the Kusatsu-Shirane mountain range, which is a popular destination for outdoor adventures such as hiking and skiing. In this travel guide, we provide a comprehensive list of the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural attractions in Kusatsu to make your trip unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Kusatsu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Yubatake: Located in the center of Kusatsu, this is the town’s main attraction and the largest hot spring source in Japan.
  • Kusatsu International Ski Resort: A popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
  • Netsunoyu: An outdoor foot bath in the center of Kusatsu that is free to use.
  • Sainokawara Park: A beautiful park with a number of natural hot spring pools and hiking trails.
  • Kusatsu Town Onsen Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the town’s hot springs and the traditional Japanese bathing culture.

Natural Attractions of Kusatsu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Kusatsu-Shirane: A popular hiking destination with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Shiraito Falls: A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Kusatsu Highland Farm: A fun day trip for families, with activities such as milking cows and making cheese.
  • Lake Yugama: A crater lake formed by an active volcano, with turquoise water and stunning views.
  • Onsenji Temple: A beautiful temple located in the mountains with stunning views of the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kusatsu

Kusatsu has a number of hiking and biking routes suitable for all skill levels. Below are some of the most popular routes:

  • Mount Kusatsu-Shirane
  • Mount Shirane
  • Mount Asama
  • Mount Akagi
  • Kusatsu Green-Belt Hiking Trail

Best Things to Do in Kusatsu: Activities and Tours

  • Onsen Hopping: Kusatsu is known for its hot springs, and there are many different types of onsen baths to try.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Kusatsu has the largest ski resort in the Kanto region and is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
  • Paragliding: Take in the stunning views of Kusatsu from a different perspective.
  • Traditional Japanese Music and Dance: Kusatsu is known for its traditional music and dance performances, which are held throughout the year.
  • Kusatsu Summer Festival: A lively festival with food stalls, music, dancing, and traditional Japanese fireworks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kusatsu

Day 1: Yubatake and the Town Center Day 2: Mount Kusatsu-Shirane Day 3: Hiking/Biking Day 4: Onsen Hopping Day 5: Kusatsu International Ski Resort Day 6: Paragliding or Traditional Japanese Music and Dance Day 7: Shiraito Falls and Lake Yugama

Food and Drink Scene of Kusatsu

Must-Try Dishes

  • Onsen Tamago (Hot Spring Egg): Eggs cooked in the hot spring water, making them soft and delicious.
  • Oyaki: Traditional dumplings filled with vegetables or sweet red bean paste.
  • Karinto: Crunchy sweet snacks made from flour, brown sugar, and soy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Kusatsu Beer: A local craft beer made with the town’s natural spring water and locally sourced hops.
  • Shirokuma: A refreshing shaved ice dessert drizzled with fruit syrup.

Where to Stay in Kusatsu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kusatsu has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel: A modern hotel with stunning views of the town and the mountains.
  • Kusatsu Onsen Ryokan: Traditional Japanese inn with hot spring baths and tatami rooms.
  • Kusatsu Onsen Daitokan: A luxurious hot spring ryokan with its own private hot springs in each room.

What to Buy in Kusatsu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kusatsu Onsen Manju: Delicious steamed buns filled with sweet red bean paste or other fillings.
  • Kusatsu Tsumugi Silk: A local silk fabric woven in Kusatsu.
  • Echigo-Jo Sake: A local sake made with locally sourced rice and Kusatsu’s natural spring water.

Local Culture and Customs of Kusatsu

Kusatsu has a rich cultural heritage, and there are a number of customs and traditions that visitors should be aware of. Here are a few tips:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and shrines.
  • Remove shoes before entering a traditional Japanese inn or home.
  • Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Japanese culture.

Best Time to Visit Kusatsu

The best time to visit Kusatsu is from December to February, during the winter season when the town is covered in snow and is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The summer season (June to August) is also a popular time to visit, with mild temperatures and outdoor festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kusatsu

Do:

  • Try the local hot springs and onsen baths.
  • Take part in traditional Japanese cultural activities, such as calligraphy or tea ceremonies.
  • Visit Mount Kusatsu-Shirane for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes indoors in traditional Japanese inns or homes.
  • Talk loudly in public places or on public transportation.
  • Leave chopsticks sticking straight up in a bowl of rice, as it is a symbol of death in Japanese culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kusatsu

Kusatsu is generally a safe town, with low levels of crime. However, visitors should be aware of the following:

  • Take caution when hiking, as the terrain can be steep and slippery, especially in the winter season.
  • Be mindful of traffic when cycling or walking on the roads.

Health in Kusatsu

It is important to stay hydrated when visiting Kusatsu, especially when taking part in outdoor activities. The town’s hot springs are also known for their therapeutic benefits, and many visitors come to Kusatsu for their healing properties.

Getting to Kusatsu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kusatsu

The two closest international airports to Kusatsu are Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport, both located in Tokyo. From either airport, visitors can take a train or bus to Kusatsu.

Bus Stations Near Kusatsu

Kusatsu Bus Terminal is located in the center of town and is served by a number of bus companies connecting Kusatsu to other destinations in Japan, including Tokyo and Kyoto.

Other Options

Another popular option for getting to Kusatsu is by train. Visitors can take the JR Joetsu Shinkansen to Takasaki, then transfer to a local train to Kusatsu.

How to Get Around in Kusatsu

Kusatsu is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also rent a bicycle or take a bus to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Kusatsu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Nikko: A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning temples and shrines.
  • Karuizawa: A popular destination for its tranquil nature and relaxation, with hiking trails and hot springs.
  • Tokyo: The bustling metropolis of Tokyo is just a few hours away by train and offers a stark contrast to the peaceful atmosphere of Kusatsu.

Conclusion

Kusatsu is a charming town that offers a mix of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax in the town’s hot springs, hit the slopes for some skiing, or explore the surrounding mountains, Kusatsu has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to visit Kusatsu and experience all it has to offer.

Kusatsu Kusatsu Mount Kusatsu-Shirane Mount Kusatsu-Shirane Kusatsu Onsen Kusatsu Onsen