One of Japan’s Most Popular Onsen Resorts
Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan’s three most celebrated hot spring resorts, located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture at an elevation of 1,200 meters. The town’s centerpiece is the Yubatake, or “hot water field,” a dramatic thermal feature where over 4,000 liters of mineral-rich spring water gush forth every minute at temperatures around 50-90°C. The naturally acidic waters, with a pH of around 2.1, are renowned for their therapeutic properties and are said to cure everything except lovesickness, according to local legend.
The Yubatake creates an otherworldly landscape in the heart of the town, with wooden channels directing the steaming, sulfur-scented waters through a series of cooling boxes before distribution to the resort’s many bathhouses. The area around the Yubatake features traditional wooden architecture, souvenir shops and numerous public and private baths where visitors can experience the healing waters firsthand. Don’t miss the traditional Yumomi performance, where locals demonstrate the centuries-old technique of cooling the hot spring water by stirring it with large wooden paddles while singing folk songs.
Beyond the Yubatake, Kusatsu offers several free public foot baths, the historic Netsunoyu bathhouse and access to nearby hiking trails. The town’s compact size makes it perfect for strolling, with most attractions within walking distance of the main hot spring field.
Best Times To Visit Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen is a year-round destination, but each season offers distinct experiences. Winter (December to February) transforms the town into a snowy wonderland, with the steam from the Yubatake creating dramatic clouds against the cold air — perfect for atmospheric photography. This is also ski season, with Kusatsu International Ski Resort nearby. Spring (March to May) brings milder weather and blooming mountain flora, while summer (June to August) offers a cool escape from Tokyo’s humidity, with average temperatures around 20°C. Autumn (September to November) paints the surrounding mountains in brilliant fall colors, making it ideal for combining onsen relaxation with scenic hikes. The annual Yumomi Dance Festival in August showcases traditional culture.