Things To Do
in Kusatsu
Kusatsu is a historic onsen town in Shiga Prefecture, renowned for its restorative hot springs and traditional wooden streets. Nestled near Lake Biwa and surrounded by gentle hills, the town exudes a timeless, ruindo atmosphere with steam rising from its public baths. The centerpiece is Yubatake, a massive hot spring field that scents the air and cools into the bathhouses below.
Visitors come to soak, stroll the atmospheric lanes, and savor seasonal Shiga cuisine in a peaceful, intimate setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the iconic Yubatake, the hot water field that symbolizes Kusatsu. As you take in the crisp mountain air, enjoy the mesmerizing sight of steaming hot spring water bubbling up from the ground. Stop by local shops to browse traditional crafts and souvenirs, immersing yourself in the rich culture of the area.
Visit the Kusatsu Onsen Museum to learn about the history and science of the town's famous hot springs. Afterward, take a guided tour to explore the various ryokans, traditional inns, and their unique bathing facilities. Enjoy a relaxing foot bath at one of the public foot baths, where you can unwind while soaking your feet in the healing waters.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious kaiseki dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor seasonal dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the illuminated Yubatake, watching the steam rise into the night sky. Finish your evening by enjoying an onsen experience at one of the nearby ryokans, allowing the mineral-rich waters to soothe your body.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike through the nearby Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, where vibrant autumn leaves create a picturesque landscape. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing ample opportunities for photography. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, listening to the soothing sounds of birds and rustling leaves.
Continue exploring the national park by visiting the beautiful Lake Sugama, where you can rent a canoe or take a peaceful stroll along the shore. The serene environment is perfect for a picnic lunch, allowing you to relax and soak in the natural beauty. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as deer and various bird species, as you wander through the lush surroundings.
Return to Kusatsu and unwind with a visit to one of the town's open-air onsens, where you can soak in the warm waters while enjoying breathtaking views of the starry sky. As night falls, visit a local izakaya for a taste of Kusatsu's nightlife and sample regional dishes such as soba noodles and grilled fish. Engage with friendly locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences from your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transit per ride | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🎟️Museum/heritage site entry | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to renowned hot springs and a serene town feel
- Beautiful four-season scenery and calm, walkable streets
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services may be cash-focused and English assistance can be limited in smaller shops
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません、英語を話せますか？" - Excuse me, do you speak English?
- "お願いします" - Please
- "おいしいです" - Delicious
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the restroom?
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "助けてください" - Help me
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Kusatsu
Visit one of these nice places.
A signature steam-filled plaza with networked wooden channels; best photographed at dawn or dusk when steam swirls softly and steam vents glow in lamps.
Outdoor baths set in a forested area; the steam against trees and stone paths offers atmospheric shots, especially in mist.
Old wooden facades, lanterns, and narrow lanes provide intimate, retro Japanese street photography moments.
The town lights illuminate the onsen streets, creating warm silhouettes and reflective surfaces on quiet evenings.
Food in Kusatsu
Kusatsu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Eggs slowly cooked in hot spring water, typically served with soy-based tare and a light dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
High-quality beef from the Omi region; often presented as a seared steak or in small hot-plate dishes at ryokan restaurants.
Buckwheat noodles featuring the distinct aroma and texture of Omi-style soba from Shiga Prefecture.
Dishes featuring delicate tofu skin, often served in soups, salads, or as part of multi-course meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal snacks and sweets near the hot spring field, including dango and light fried bites, perfect for a quick energy boost after a soak.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shower and rinse before entering baths; towels should not be worn in the water; keep noise low; tattoos may be restricted in some bathhouses.
Respect for others; speak softly in public spaces and avoid loud conversations in heating and bathing areas.
Dress modestly in public areas near temples and traditional establishments; photograph with permission where required.
Safety
Tipping in Kusatsu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is included in the price. If you wish to show appreciation, a small tip is not expected in most places.
Cash is widely accepted, and many shops and ryokan also accept credit cards. Some smaller shops may prefer cash; international cards are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, fresh greenery, and lingering mist around the onsen fields create soft light for photography and pleasant walks.
Warm days with occasional rain; comfortable for outdoor strolling and enjoying late-evening baths after sunset.
Foliage turns golden; cooler air and clear skies make for vivid landscapes and great photography opportunities.
Cold and snowy, transforming the town into a serene winter wonderland; hot springs feel especially welcoming after outdoor walks.
Kusatsu at Night
Hiking in Kusatsu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A notable trail in Shiga that offers panoramic views from the summit; suitable for day hikes with varied terrain.
Flat, scenic routes along Lake Biwa’s shoreline suitable for easy to moderate walks.
Airports
How to reach Kusatsu by plane.
Major international and domestic hub; roughly 2-3 hours by train and bus to Kusatsu, depending on connections.
Domestic hub close to Osaka; connections to Kusatsu via trains and buses can take around 2-3 hours.
Nagoya-area hub; longer transfer to Kusatsu but an option for regional travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families enjoy the safe, walkable streets and onsen experiences, with kid-friendly eateries.
Quiet, accessible attractions and comfortable ryokan stays appeal to older travelers.
A steady flow of visitors seeking hot springs, nature, and traditional culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Forest trails and gentle climbs in the surrounding hills offer scenic viewpoints.
Road cycling around the lake region and into nearby countryside is popular in warm months.
Kayaking and boat trips from nearby launch points provide lakeside recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kusatsu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plan ahead with ryokan kaiseki; request vegetable-forward courses and broth-based dashi without meat or fish stock when possible.