Top reasons to visit Kusatsu Onsen
- Renowned Onsen Baths: Experience the luxurious mineral-rich waters of Kusatsu's famous hot springs, perfect for relaxation.
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore breathtaking mountain landscapes surrounding Kusatsu, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Cultural Immersion: Discover local traditions and history at nearby museums and cultural sites.
- Charming Accommodations: Stay in traditional ryokans or modern hotels, each offering unique experiences and stunning views.
- Winter Sports: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, making Kusatsu a year-round destination.
Find great hotels in and around Kusatsu Onsen
Discover the charm of Kusatsu Onsen, where a variety of accommodations await to enhance your stay. Choose from traditional ryokans or modern hotels, each offering unique experiences. Enjoy rejuvenating hot springs, stunning mountain views, and proximity to thrilling ski adventures. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat or an exciting getaway, Kusatsu Onsen hotels provide the perfect base for your Japanese holiday.
- Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel: Nestled in a picturesque location, the Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel is a 3-star accommodation that caters to those seeking an adventurous ski holiday. Located 14km from Kusatsu Onsen, this hotel offers easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, making it an ideal choice for winter sports enthusiasts. Guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports right onsite, including snowboarding, hiking, and snowshoeing. With ski lessons and rentals available, the hotel is well-equipped for a thrilling alpine experience.
- Kusatsu Onsen Daitokan: Situated in the heart of Kusatsu Onsen, the 3.5-star Kusatsu Onsen Daitokan is a traditional ryokan that embodies the essence of Japanese hospitality and hot spring culture. This property features both indoor and outdoor public onsen, allowing guests to relax and unwind in natural mineral waters. The serene atmosphere of the ryokan complements its hot spring amenities, making it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in a rejuvenating onsen experience while enjoying the charming local surroundings.
- Karuizawa Club Hotel Karuizawa 1130 / Hewitt Resort: Located 18km from Kusatsu Onsen, the 4-star Karuizawa Club Hotel offers a luxurious retreat with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This resort is perfect for travellers seeking a combination of hot spring relaxation and spa indulgence. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor onsen facilities, as well as a full-service spa that provides body and facial treatments. With an outdoor pool on-site, this hotel presents a tranquil environment for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Where to stay in Kusatsu Onsen
Embarking on a journey to Kusatsu Onsen offers a delightful blend of culture and relaxation, set against the stunning backdrop of Gunma Prefecture. This charming village is renowned for its luxurious onsen experiences, where visitors can unwind in mineral-rich waters. Nearby, Kusatsu town beckons with friendly locals and picturesque scenery, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and cultural immersion. Whether seeking wellness or adventure, Kusatsu Onsen promises an unforgettable escape in Japan.
- Kusatsu: Nestled in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu is renowned for its soothing hot springs and stunning alpine scenery. The town's enchanting atmosphere is heightened in winter, attracting visitors for skiing and outdoor adventures. With ski resorts and fields nearby, Kusatsu is a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. The iconic Yubatake (hot water field) serves as a local landmark, where you can witness the natural beauty of the onsen. Whether you’re indulging in a traditional onsen bath or exploring the local shops and eateries, Kusatsu offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure throughout the year.
- Tsumagoi: Located a mere 11km from Kusatsu, Tsumagoi is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. This charming city is primarily known for its ski resorts, making it a popular destination during winter months. The landscape is characterised by lush greenery in warmer seasons, providing ample opportunities for hiking and sports activities. With its proximity to hot springs and tranquil lakes, Tsumagoi offers a perfect retreat for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. The welcoming atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make Tsumagoi an ideal spot for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Japan's mountainous terrain.
- Yamanouchi: Situated 16km from Kusatsu, Yamanouchi is a vibrant city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and a plethora of outdoor activities. Famous for its ski resorts, Yamanouchi attracts thrill-seekers during winter and offers beautiful parks for relaxation in the warmer months. Visitors can explore the historic Shibu Onsen area, known for its traditional ryokan and hot springs. With a strong emphasis on adventure sports, Yamanouchi is the perfect destination for those looking to experience both the excitement of skiing and the serenity of nature. The city's charm and scenic beauty make it a must-visit on your Japanese holiday.
Things to do near Kusatsu Onsen
Shopping
In Kusatsu Onsen, explore local shops for unique souvenirs such as traditional crafts and onsen-related goods. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Kakegawa Shopping Centre, approximately 19km away, featuring a mix of shops, eateries, and local products to enhance your shopping experience.
Recreation
Kusatsu Onsen offers rejuvenating hot springs renowned for their therapeutic properties, ideal for relaxation. Explore the Yubatake, a symbol of the town, and indulge in traditional ryokan experiences. The surrounding mountains provide scenic trails for hiking, where you can immerse yourself in nature's tranquillity.
Adventure
The Yuzawa Kogen Ropeway offers stunning views as you ascend the mountain. Located 40km from Kusatsu Onsen, this cable car gondola provides an exhilarating experience amidst nature, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and breathtaking landscapes during your ride.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant atmosphere at Yubatake Square, where you can enjoy local street food and soak in the hot spring steam. For a relaxing evening, visit a traditional ryokan for an onsen experience, followed by a drink at a nearby izakaya, sampling sake and local delicacies.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen offers a wealth of free activities, including the iconic Yubatake. To save on accommodation, consider visiting during the off-peak months of March to April and June, and aim to book about a month in advance for the best rates. Wednesdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to compare hotel prices and refine your options, including eco-friendly stays. Look for package deals to combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kusatsu Onsen are March to April and June, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kusatsu Onsen is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kusatsu Onsen is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kusatsu Onsen is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels at the outset. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your Kusatsu Onsen hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen, renowned for its cultural and wellness offerings, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the famous kusatsu hot springs, including the iconic yubatake, and immerse themselves in the local culture at nearby museums. The surrounding mountains offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for hiking, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure in one of Japan's premier onsen towns.
- Shibu: Located 19km from Kusatsu Onsen, Shibu offers a serene hot spring experience amidst tranquil surroundings. Visitors can enjoy outdoor baths that promote wellness and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for rejuvenation after a day of exploration.
- Shima River: Just 19km away, the Shima River captivates with its scenic beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it provides picturesque views and tranquil settings, perfect for leisurely walks or picnics along its banks.
- Joshin'etsu-kogen National Park: At 23km from Kusatsu Onsen, this national park is a haven for adventure seekers. With stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, it offers numerous trails for hiking and exploration, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature.
Best time to go to Kusatsu Onsen
The best time to visit Kusatsu Onsen is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Kusatsu Onsen
Reaching Kusatsu Onsen is convenient with major airports such as Matsumoto (MMJ-Shinshu - Matsumoto), situated 79km away, and Toyama (TOY), located 126km away. Near Matsumoto Airport, you can find excellent accommodation options like the 4-star Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel, 10km away, and Hoshino Resorts KAI Matsumoto, an 13km distance. For those flying into Toyama, the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama is just 6km from the airport, alongside the ANA Crowne Plaza Toyama. Both hotels offer transportation services, making access to the airport seamless for travellers.