What to know
Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) is one of Japan's most celebrated hot spring resorts, blessed with abundant, high-quality water said to cure every ailment except lovesickness.
Renowned for centuries as a hot spring destination, Kusatsu's fame grew thanks to German doctor Erwin von Baelz, who served at the imperial court in the late 1800s and recommended the town for its water's health benefits.
Situated at 1,200 meters above sea level in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu offers skiing in winter and hiking the rest of the year, all complemented by hot spring bathing. The town also lies along Japan's Romantic Road.
Activities and attractions
Kusatsu Hot Spring BathsAbout Kusatsu’s hot spring baths
Yubatake (Hot Water Field)The hot water field, the symbol of Kusatsu
Mount ShiraneActive volcano above Kusatsu
Sainokawara ParkPark with hot streams and ponds
Kusatsu Onsen Ski ResortA compact ski area above the hot spring town
YumomiTraditional way to cool down hot spring water
Manza OnsenHot spring resort with Japan’s most sulfuric waters