2025 Kusatsu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

In Japan's hot spring kingdom, Kusatsu Onsen retains its top spot on the "Top 100 Hot Springs in Japan" list, Dogo Onsen boasts the splendour of being the oldest hot spring resort, Gero Onsen embodies the lingering charm of the Edo period amidst the Hida Mountains, Beppu Eight Hot Springs showcases the wonders of Hell, and Arima Onsen boasts the Golden and Silver Springs, a landmark in Kansai. These hot springs offer not only healing sanctuaries but also embody the rich history and remarkable people of the region. This article explores the unique charms of these five hot springs through four key perspectives: their status, spring quality, scenic beauty, and transportation. [1. Hot Spring Status and Historical Heritage] Kusatsu Onsen retains its top spot on this year's "Top 100 Hot Springs in Japan" list as one of the "Three Famous Hot Springs." Its steaming hot spring baths have become a cultural icon, making it a favorite not only for locals but also for tourists. Dogo Onsen prides itself on being Japan's oldest hot spring. Its three-story wooden main building is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and Natsume Soseki's "The Young Master" has imbued it with a culturally rich aura. Gero Onsen is one of the "Three Great Hot Springs," boasting a thousand-year history fused with the rustic customs of the Hida Mountains, and its hot spring town retains a vibrant Edo-era atmosphere. Beppu's Eight Hot Springs, known for their extremely high temperatures, are known as the "Hell Pilgrimage," with the "Sea Hell" being the most famous. Arima Onsen is also one of the "Three Great Hot Springs," and its twin springs, the Gold and Silver Springs, firmly establish its status among Kansai hot springs. [II. Scenic Experiences and Highlights] A must-see in Kusatsu is the "Saishino Kawara Rotenburi" (separate baths for men and women). Its spacious grounds are surrounded by the shadows of forest trees, offering distinctly different views each season. Near the Dogo Main Building, the "Boye Mechanical Bell" features daily performances of mechanical puppets. After a soak, visit this fascinating little bell tower and stroll through the nearby shopping streets. Gero's signature attraction is its "Gasho-style" village, featuring traditional Gassho-style houses and workshops where you can experience pottery and Japanese paper making. Beppu's "Blood Pond" is a breathtaking crimson hot spring wonder, where you can also try a foot bath. In Arima, the Arima Toy Museum, featuring a wide selection of toys from Japan and abroad, is a truly childlike experience! [3. Location and Convenient Transportation] Kusatsu: A three-hour drive from Tokyo, or take the JR Joshu Yu-Panorama Bus from Shinjuku Bus Terminal. Dōgo: From JR Matsuyama Station, take the No. 5 train directly to the destination, allowing you to combine a day trip to Matsuyama Castle. Gero: Accessible via the JR Takayama Main Line, it can be combined with a trip to Shirakawa-go Gassho Village. Beppu: A two-hour direct highway bus ride from Fukuoka Airport. Arima: Direct buses from Kobe and a one-hour train ride from Osaka's Umeda area. Whether you're seeking historical insights, natural wonders, or simply relaxation, this hot spring country has a hot spring to soothe you. Besides hot springs, Japan has many other great places to explore. Explore trip.com's "Local Guide" for even more local experiences! #Japan #JapanAttractions #JapanZejing #JapanTravelStrategy #JapanTravel #Kusatsu #KusatsuOnsen #KusatsuOnsen #Arima #ArimaOnsen #ArimaOnsen #Gero #GeroOnsen #GeroOnsen #Beppu #BeppuTravel #BeppuOnsen #Dōgo #DōgoOnsen #DōgoOnsen

Sensoji Temple, also known as Asakusa Temple, is a very popular temple for tourists visiting Tokyo. It's the most famous temple in Tokyo, thanks to the large red lantern at the entrance. This iconic landmark draws many visitors. Even on a weekday, it was incredibly crowded. The temple also boasts a wealth of traditional Japanese architecture for you to explore. Getting there: Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or the Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station. Turn left and walk about 100 meters. You'll see a large red lantern. Walk through the market to reach the temple. Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM #AdventureTrip #TravelJapan #japantrip

#0yentravelautumn #shiga #kusatsu #shigafood #shabushabu 📍TOWER-111, 1-7-1 Oji, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture Exit the east exit of Kusatsu Station, go right (towards Hankyu OASIS) and go down the footbridge. (Or take the escalator in front to the 1st floor and outside the building) Turn right at the bottom of the stairs and go straight. Turn left at the intersection and walk along the TOWER-111 building for a while and you will see the shop on your right. 🕰️■Lunch [Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays] 11:30 - 14:30 ■Dinner [Monday - Friday] 17:30 - 23:00 [Saturday] 17:00 - 22:00 [Sunday] 17:00 - 21:00 Closed: irregular Kyoto Tsuyu Shabu Chiriri is a private room restaurant located near Kusatsu Station. Thinly sliced ​​pork belly is dipped in a five-stage broth and eaten with white onions and yuzu peppers. This time, I changed to Omi beef. The flavor of the meat and the aroma of the broth spread in my mouth. The nice thing about shabu shabu is that you can eat plenty of vegetables. I also enjoyed the soba noodles at the end of the meal.

#Fritabi #Shiga #ShigaTourism #ShigaGourmet #Kusatsu #KusatsuLunch #HotDog #Customization #Bread #Station 📍 niwa+, 1-1-60 Shibukawa, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture 🕰️10:00-22:00 CONEY ISLAND, located in the square in front of Kusatsu Station, is a cafe where you can enjoy hot dogs made with additive-free sausages and handmade sausages. It is located in niwa+, a square in front of Kusatsu Station where several shops are lined up. It is within easy walking distance from Kusatsu Station, so you can meet up with friends or drop in casually. At this shop, you can order your own hot dog set while customizing it as you like. ① Sausage [original, herb, spicy, beer, curry, super spicy] ② Toppings [relish (chopped pickles), cabbage, cheese, jalapeno] ③ Potatoes (R size, L size) ④ Drink. I ordered the original, cheese, relish and red fries. It was filling but I couldn't leave anything behind and ended up munching it all down. It was delicious. The fries were also delicious. In addition to hot dogs, there was also a wide selection of drinks, alcoholic beverages like craft beer, and sweets.

#Fritabi #Shiga #Kusatsu #Bakery #Bakery tour #Stores with queues 📍6-19-8 Oiwake Minami, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture 🕰️Weekdays 9:00-19:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 7:30-19:00 Closed: Closed Pain de Marche is a bakery run by a chef who trained in France. I was excited to visit after hearing that it was a regular on Tabelog's Top 100 Bakeries. Even though I arrived in the evening, there were a lot of people in the store and I couldn't get in right away. Apparently there's a line in the morning. There were many prepared and side-dish breads in the store, including many rare items that you won't see at other bakeries. I liked the burdock bread. Burdock and tuna were inside the hard bread, which was chewy and delicious. They sell 820 loaves of bread, 340 baguettes, 288 croissants, and 240 curry buns per day, so I'd like to try buying some bread next time.

Kusatsu-juku, located in Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is the 52nd post town of the 53 Tokaido stations, and flourished during the Edo period as the confluence of the Tokaido and Nakasendo roads. The Kusatsu-juku Honjin, where feudal lords and nobles stayed, is one of the largest remaining inns, and you can tour the inside. There is also the Kusatsu-juku Kaido Exchange Center nearby, where you can learn about the prosperity of the road and the history of Kusatsu. 📌Kusatsu-juku 📌 2-8 Kusatsu 1-chome, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture 525-0034 📌 You can walk to the town from Kusatsu Station. 📌 Popularity ★★★☆☆ #Domestic travel #Shiga Prefecture #Shiga #Kusatsu City #Kusatsu-juku #Kusatsu #Tokaido #Nakasendo #Post town #Post town

●Name Kusatsu Yumoto Onsen Mizuharu ●Access 300 Shinhama-cho, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture 🚗Private parking available ●Points 13 types of baths, a loyly sauna, herbal salt sauna, and more. A facility where you can relax and enjoy a long time Of course, it is a natural hot spring pumped up from the underground of Lake Biwa♨️ Personally, I like the herbal salt sauna the best The mugwort steam makes you sweat from the core of your body, rubbing the salt in the jar into your body will blow away all your fatigue in an instant If you visit after taking the Lake Biwa Tourist Steamship or sightseeing at Seta no Karahashi, this is a recommended spot to go and warm up your body This hot spring is always full of bathers, so I'm sorry for the lack of photos🙏 #Domestic travel #Hot spring trip #Shiga #Hot spring

#tokyo Sensoji Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo and is Tokyo's oldest temple. It has been a cultural landmark in Tokyo where most people will visit and a mandatory shot of the giant red lantern in front of the main gate of the temple. As much as we enjoyed touring the temple, we also enjoyed the lively street of food and souvenir shops in front of the temple. A nice and lively temple that is well kept. If you are lucky, you might be able to view a ceremony. #Japan #SensojiTemple

●Name Lakeside Green Space Shina ●Access Shina-cho, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, and others 🚗Private parking available ●Points Autumn is the time for everyone to gather and have a BBQ The lakeside green space on the shores of Lake Biwa is perfect for the outdoors Not only for BBQs, but many people also come here for camping There is no charge for use and parking is also free‼ ️ The sunset over Lake Biwa is amazing The lakeside green space of Shina is a really nice place There are many people camping here, so we recommend arriving early to secure a parking space I'll just tell you the drawbacks There are 1 and 2 Shina sites, but the restrooms in 2 are cleaner Neither site has a washbasin, so you can't wash dishes It's a great place if you can make up for this by bringing your own supplies I visited on October 30th, but the signs of autumn are just beginning The autumn leaves in Kyoto will be at their best from around November 20th to 25th 🍁 #AutumnTravel #Outdoor

#overseas travel #japan travel #japan hot springs It's Kusatsu Onsen ➡️ Nishi-no-Kawahara-dori Shopping Street, at the end is Nishi-no-Kawahara Park... Authentic ➡️ hot spring park, strange rocks stand outside, there are several hot spring mouths in the park constantly pouring out of the hot spring source, high temperature acidic spring quality due to strong corrosive, inch of grass beside the stream, but also promote the growth of all kinds of bacteria and algae, forming many different colors of hot spring pool ... surrounded by the sound of gurgling stream. Hearing also feels particularly healing 🤩 comfortable Located in the deepest part of the park, it is the most popular ➡️Nishino Kawara Open Air Hot Spring ➡️ Cost: Adult 500 yen | Child 300 yen The time of the autumn leaf 🍁 season to take pictures 📸️ is also particularly beautiful 😍😍 address 521-3 Kusatsu, Kusatsu Onsen-cho, Azuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture

Is that a really confident headline? It's hilarious. It's a little funny, though. The corner of my mouth twitched (and I ended up getting reported). The photos I'm sharing are from March 25, 2025. I'm usually lazy about things like this, but they said they'd give me coins to discount on my flight tickets, so I thought, "Huh? Maybe this is helpful to those who haven't booked yet or have already. It's possible this might happen. But it's not like I can't take photos at all. Let's see how it turns out! 📸 ——— 🌸 Location: Ueno Park • Photo 1: This photo was taken with a friend's digital camera. It's so beautiful it entices people to click on my post. The cherry blossoms look so full. This is the first tree you'll see when you step into Ueno Park. • Photo 2: The photo taken with the iPhone 11's rear camera is so breathtaking, I had to cover my face to see it properly. • Photo 3: The same tree as the first two action photos, but from an ant's perspective. It looks quite full. • Photo 4: Bam! The tree next to it, but it's a different species. (Or maybe it's a plum tree.) I can't tell if it's about to bloom or if it's green. Is it still blooming or has it already bloomed? I can't tell. • Photo 5: As I walked into the garden, I thought I'd find another tree to photograph... BAM! Some of the trees were blooming, so cute, giving off a sweet vibe, as seen in the picture. • Photo 6: When I zoomed in, it was like, "Oh, ahhh..." I'm going to post it on Instagram. 🗼Location: Sumida Park • Photo 7: Oh no! I can't miss this trip! I was searching for a location under the tree in photo 6 and discovered that Sumida Park might have some luck waiting for me??? We counted to seven and jumped on the train, and then we discovered... it wasn't blooming either...🫩 The photos I took were like, "Oh, there are some!" ... No, I had to take a photo because they're so rare. It took me a while to find them. • Photo 8: I walked until I found two trees blooming close together, so I snapped a photo to make it look like the whole garden was blooming, as seen in the picture. It was so pretty, but getting a photo is such a joy. But the number of people is more than the flowers. 🏮Location: Sensoji Temple • Photo 9: I'm showing you this to remind you that it's going to be a real treat. The pink flowers you see are fake and used for decoration, showing off the real tree. 🛏️ Location: On the way back to the hotel • Photo 10: The first cherry tree I got to meet and greet. It's beautifully minimalist. Thank you for doing your best, Auntie! 🫶 ——— ✨ In short... only some varieties are blooming, so find your perfect angle. Even though they're not fully bloomed, it's definitely crowded. Just look at each photo. Legs and shoulders pressed together. When switching places to take photos, be sure to time the trees carefully. Don't leave the place empty for too long, or you'll be replaced. I thought I'd come during Songkran this year, but I've heard the weather is getting colder soon. I don't know how that will affect next year. Keep an eye on the cherry blossom forecast. Bye-bye~ (Sweet departure) #traveljapan #traveltokyo #uenopark #sumidapark #sakura

#holidayitinerary Sensō-ji Temple (often misspelled “Senjoji”), the oldest and most famous Buddhist temple in Tokyo, Japan. Location: Asakusa district, Taitō City, Tokyo Founded: 645 AD (making it Tokyo’s oldest temple) Main Deity: Kannon Bosatsu (Avalokiteśvara, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy) Legend: Two fishermen brothers are said to have discovered a golden statue of Kannon in the Sumida River in 628 AD. The village chief recognized it as sacred and built the temple to honor it. Kaminarimon ("Thunder Gate") — the massive outer gate with a giant red lantern. #travel #couplestrip

Hello everyone! Today we’re going to explore “Tokyo,” the vibrant capital of Japan that combines ancient culture and cutting-edge technology in one place. If you’re planning a trip to Japan and don’t know where to start… just follow along! 🎌✈️ 📍1. Fuji Kawaguchiko (Kawaguchiko) – one of the most popular spots to see the beautiful Mount Fuji, and the easiest to reach from Tokyo 📍2. Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort – a famous ski resort near Tokyo, easy to get to, perfect for both beginners and pros who love snow 📍3. Shinkiba Park / Tokyo Tower – a park where you can see Tokyo Tower 📍4. Sensoji Temple (Asakusa Temple / Sensoji) – an ancient Buddhist temple famous for its giant red lantern 📍5. Tsukiji Outer Market – a must-visit for food lovers, with fresh sushi, fried snacks, grilled squid, sweet eggs, and plenty of Japanese treats to try

#tokyospots 🚪 Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) The iconic outer gate with its massive red lantern is one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. It’s a powerful symbol of the temple and Asakusa district. 🔥 Survived Destruction and Rebirth Much of Sensoji was destroyed during World War II. It was lovingly rebuilt, and today it stands as a symbol of peace and resilience for the Japanese people.

#tokyospots 🌸 A Sense of Timelessness As the oldest temple in Tokyo (built in 645 AD), Sensoji exudes a deep sense of history. Walking through the Kaminarimon Gate and along Nakamise Street, with its traditional shops and snacks, feels like stepping into a living past — a bridge between centuries. 🕊️ Spiritual Calm Amid the Crowd Despite the tourist buzz, the main hall, the incense smoke wafting from the giant jokoro (incense burner), and the ritual of drawing omikuji fortunes all offer a moment of reflection and serenity. There's a spiritual heartbeat that pulses beneath the surface.

#tokyospots 🌟 What Makes Sensoji Temple Special 1. 🏯 Oldest Temple in Tokyo Founded in 645 AD, Sensoji is Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Its age gives it immense historical and cultural significance in Japan. 2. 🎐 The Legend Behind Its Origin According to legend, two fishermen discovered a statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, in the Sumida River. A temple was built to honor her, making Sensoji a sacred place for those seeking compassion and protection.

#tokyospots 🙏 Main Hall (Hondō) The temple’s main hall is where visitors come to pray to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Although the original golden statue is hidden from public view, people come from around the world to pay their respects, light incense, and seek blessings for health, fortune, and happiness. 🎍 New Year’s Visit (Hatsumōde) Sensō-ji is one of Japan’s most visited temples during the New Year holidays, when people come to pray for good fortune in the coming year. It becomes incredibly crowded, with a festive, spiritual atmosphere.

#tokyospots 🛍️ Nakamise Shopping Street Beyond the Thunder Gate lies Nakamise-dōri, a bustling street lined with about 90 shops selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, yukata, fans, and crafts. It’s the perfect place to soak in Edo-period atmosphere and pick up unique gifts. 🛕 Main Hall (Hondō) The main hall of Sensō-ji enshrines the statue of Kannon. Though the original statue is never shown to the public, many come to pray, make offerings, and experience the deep spiritual atmosphere of the hall.

#tokyospots 🔮 Omikuji & Incense Visitors can purchase omikuji (fortune slips) or purify themselves at the incense burner (jōkōro) near the main hall. The smoke is believed to bring health and good luck if wafted over the body. 🌸 Seasonal Beauty Sensō-ji is stunning year-round: cherry blossoms in spring, colorful lanterns in summer, autumn foliage, and New Year celebrations draw massive crowds. The Sanja Matsuri, held in May, is one of Tokyo’s biggest festivals, centered around the temple.

#tokyospots 🏯 Architectural and Cultural Highlights ⚡ Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) This dramatic entrance gate is one of Tokyo’s most recognizable symbols. It features a massive red paper lantern inscribed with the characters 雷門 (Kaminarimon, "Thunder Gate"). Flanked by fierce statues of Fūjin (God of Wind) and Raijin (God of Thunder), it sets the tone for the spiritual and historical journey ahead.

#tokyospots Sensō-ji offers a blend of ancient history, spiritual tradition, and lively local culture. Whether you're coming to pray, enjoy street food, or just experience a traditional side of Tokyo, Sensō-ji provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of a modern metropolis. Access & Visitor Info Location: Asakusa, Taitō City, Tokyo Nearest Station: Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line) Admission: Free Hours: Temple grounds are always open; Main Hall is usually open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (opens at 6:30 AM in winter)

#tokyospots Sensō-ji was founded in the year 645 AD, making it the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. According to legend, two fishermen discovered a statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, in the Sumida River. Key Highlights and Attractions ⛩️ Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) The entrance to Sensō-ji is marked by the famous Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” featuring a massive red paper lantern weighing over 700 kg. It’s one of Tokyo’s most photographed landmarks.

#tokyospots Sensō-ji Temple: Tokyo’s Oldest and Most Beloved Temple Sensō-ji (浅草寺), also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is Tokyo’s oldest temple and one of the most significant cultural and spiritual landmarks in Japan. Located in the Asakusa district of Taitō ward, the temple attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most visited religious sites in the world.

Shiga Coffee Festival is a large-scale coffee event held twice a year, in spring and autumn, at Kusatsu River Site Park de Ai Hiroba in Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture. Many specialty coffee shops from all over the country gather to enjoy a style where you can compare different cups of coffee. There are also music (mainly jazz), food, miscellaneous goods, and workshops held at the same time, so you can enjoy a variety of ways to enjoy the event. ☝🏻⭐️ ☕ Attractions and ways to enjoy it☕️ •Demi-cup & tasting ticket system You can easily compare coffee from multiple shops by purchasing a small-sized special cup and ticket. •Famous shops from all over the country and prefecture gather More than 20 to 30 shops will open in each spring and autumn event. Not only Shiga, but also talented shops from far away such as Miyagi, Okinawa, and Kanagawa will participate, and you can encounter rare beans that you cannot usually drink. . •Jazz Live and Relaxing Park Time You can spend some "chill" time on the grass or on benches while listening to live jazz music being played outdoors. Many participants spend their time relaxing as if they were on a picnic with their family and friends . •Plenty of food, miscellaneous goods, and workshops There will be food trucks selling bread and sweets that go well with coffee, as well as miscellaneous goods, greenery, and coffee-related workshops, so you can "enjoy the whole day wandering around" in addition to coffee . •VIP PASS also available A "VIP PASS" with priority entry and privileges to drink without lining up is also on sale, and is recommended for those who want to avoid waiting . _________________________________________ ✅ Event Overview Item Contents Held in Spring: Around March / Autumn: Around November (twice a year) Hours Saturday: 11:00–16:00, Sunday: 10:00–16:00 (rain or shine, cancelled if inclement weather) Location Kusatsu River Atochi Park de Ai Hiroba (Kusatsu City) Admission Free (ticket system for tasting; VIP PASS required) Instagram For the latest information, check the official Instagram (@shiga_coffee.fes) #absolutelyfreetrip #domestictravel #shiga

#summervacay Sensō‑ji is Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple—founded in 645 AD—and a vibrant cultural landmark in Asakusa, dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion . Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate). The famous outer gate with a giant red lantern (~3.9 m tall, weighing ~700 kg), guarded by statues of Fujin (wind) and Raijin (thunder). Current structure rebuilt in 1960, funded by Konosuke Matsushita of Panasonic. Nakamise‑dōri. A 200–250 m historic shopping street stretching from Kaminarimon to Hōzōmon, lined with about 90 stalls selling snacks like dango and senbei, and traditional souvenirs . #travel #thingstodo #myitinerary #citydaytours

After a relaxing soak at Kusatsu Yumoto Suisyun, we decided to have dinner right at the onsen—and what a great decision that turned out to be. It was convenient, saved us the hassle of heading out again, and best of all, the food exceeded our expectations. The menu featured beautifully plated Japanese dishes with fresh seasonal ingredients. Each item was thoughtfully prepared, from the sashimi to the simmered vegetables and grilled fish. The presentation reflected the same attention to detail you’d expect at a ryokan dinner, and the taste didn’t disappoint either. We left the dining hall feeling both satisfied and pampered. For an onsen restaurant, this was definitely a pleasant surprise—and a perfect way to end a rejuvenating evening. #summervacay #YourTravelBuddySG #KusatsuOnsen #SuisyunKusatsu #OnsenDinner #JapaneseRyokanVibes #KusatsuYumoto #HotSpringHeaven #JapanFoodieJourney #RyokanEats #FamilyTravelJapan #japan #japantrip

🐃 : Shokudo Cow 📍Address: 1-4-28 Oji, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, 525-0032 🕰️Business hours: 11:00-16:00 ___________________________________________ About a 10-minute walk from Kusatsu Station, Shiga Prefecture. A small restaurant near the Kusatsu River. The atmosphere inside the restaurant is cozy and warm with the warmth of wood. The menu changes daily, and you can enjoy carefully selected ingredients with a gentle yet delicious seasoning. ◎ Be sure to visit when traveling to Shiga ◎ #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #DomesticTrip #ShigaTrip

🍕 : &A 📍Address: 4-5-10 Oiwakeminami, Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, 525-0048 🕰️Business hours: 11:00-19:00 or 22:00 ____________________________________________ A cafe in Kusatsu, Shiga that you'll want to visit on a drive. There are many plants inside the store, and it's an open and relaxing space◎The menu has a wide variety of drinks and food⭐️You can choose from pizza, curry, and ahi poke☝🏻 #Absolutely free trip #Domestic trip #Shiga