June 1st, 2025
Looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway from Tokyo? I took a solo day trip to Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture — one of Japan’s most iconic hot spring towns, and it completely exceeded my expectations.

Just a heads-up: there’s also a town called “Kusatsu” in Shiga Prefecture, but the Kusatsu I visited is the famous hot spring spot in Gunma.

From steaming hot spring waters to nostalgic local treats and traditional performances, Kusatsu is full of surprises. Here’s how my day unfolded:

 

Comfortable Ride from Tokyo — Bus with Wi-Fi, USB Ports & Restroom!

I departed from Kichijoji at 7:40 AM, hopping on a comfortable highway bus equipped with Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and a restroom — all the essentials for a smooth ride.

At 9:00 AM, we stopped at Kamisato Service Area for a 30-minute break. It was the perfect chance to stretch my legs and refresh.

Note: Bus tickets must be purchased online using a credit card — no cash or IC cards accepted!

 

11:10 AM — Arrival at Kusatsu Bus Terminal: Greeted by Sulfur in the Air

The moment I stepped off the bus, I was embraced by the unmistakable scent of sulfur and boiled eggs — a natural sign that you’ve arrived in a true onsen town.

This distinctive aroma comes from hydrogen sulfide gas released by the area’s natural hot springs. Kusatsu boasts one of the most powerful acidic sulfur springs in Japan, with hot water bubbling up from underground throughout the town.

 

 Kosenji Temple: A Historical Sanctuary Overlooking the Town

Just a 5-minute walk from the bus terminal, Kosenji Temple offers both spiritual calm and a stunning panoramic view of the famous Yubatake (hot water field).

This Buddhist temple dates back to the early 9th century (Heian period) and enshrines Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing — making it a popular spot for those seeking health and well-being.

Surrounded by trees and perched on a hill, this quiet corner of Kusatsu gives you a peaceful moment away from the bustling onsen streets.

◎Kosenji Templ（光泉寺,Kosen ji）

Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/nLjeNCHjcZYFFCpe8
Business Hours	Open 24 hours
Opening Hours / Business Hours	None (Open daily)
Official Website	https://www.kusatsu.ne.jp/kousenji/
Precaution	Free of charge

 

Local Lunch at “Matsumoto” — Handmade Udon with Heart

For lunch, I stopped by Matsumoto, a cozy udon restaurant known for its handmade noodles made from locally grown wheat flour. The texture was perfectly chewy, and the broth had a rich, comforting flavor.

Bonus: They offer an English menu, so even if you don’t speak Japanese, ordering is a breeze!
Cash only, so make sure you’re carrying some JP yen.

◎Matsumoto(まつもと)

Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/gpYEvDkTXfGWhjaq7
Business Hours	11:00AM
Opening Hours / Business Hours	4:00PM
Official Website	https://www.instagram.com/matsumoto_932?igsh=cDNoMG4yMWdzdnE%3D
Precaution	・Irregular holidays — please check IG for the latest updates ・Cash only

 

Payment Tip: Cash is Still King

Around town, many small shops and food stalls only accept cash. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it’s best to bring enough cash with you for meals, souvenirs, and snacks.

 

Food Stalls Galore — Save Room for Snacking!

After lunch, I wandered around the Yubatake area and found tons of delicious street food options — hot spring buns, grilled rice crackers, milk soft serve, and more.

Pro tip: Don’t overeat at lunch! Keep your stomach around 50% full so you can indulge in these local treats throughout the day.

 

Retro Fun at “Showa Amusement Tomoeya” — Shoot for Snacks!

One of the most delightful surprises was visiting Showa Amusement Tomoeya, a retro-themed shooting game arcade right by the Yubatake.
It felt like stepping back in time — with vintage posters, nostalgic music, and good old-fashioned Shateki (Japanese shooting games).

You earn points based on your aim, and can exchange them for classic Japanese snacks that every local kid grew up with. It’s playful, quirky, and a great way to experience Japan’s nostalgic charm.

◎Showa Amusement Tomoeya(昭和アミューズメントともえや）

Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/RCiBKTSu9Q95gEUQ6
Business Hours	10:00AM
Opening Hours / Business Hours	10:00PM
Official Website	https://asobinohiroba.kusatsuonsen-tomoeya.com/
Precaution	・Open daily (subject to occasional temporary closures) ・Cash only

 

Timeless Beauty of Traditional Ryokan

As I strolled through the streets near Yubatake, I was captivated by the elegant ryokan (traditional inns) with their wooden architecture, paper sliding doors, and tatami floors.

There’s a quiet dignity in these buildings — a reflection of Japan’s appreciation for subtlety and tradition. If you plan to stay overnight, a ryokan is the way to go to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

 

3:30 PM — “Yumomi” Show: A Unique Cultural Tradition

At Netsu-no-Yu, I attended the famous Yumomi Show, one of Kusatsu’s most iconic attractions.

Because the spring water emerges at over 50°C (122°F), locals traditionally cool it down by stirring it with large wooden paddles instead of adding cold water — preserving its mineral content.
This method, called Yumomi, has been passed down for centuries and is performed with singing and traditional dances.

Visitors can enjoy the show from either the first or second floor, and it’s a fun, interactive way to learn about Kusatsu’s rich onsen culture.

◎Yumomi Show（湯もみショー）

Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZHjRuTQDhcmXy4dy8
Business Hours	Open daily throughout the year Six performances per day:  Morning: 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM       Afternoon: 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM, 4:30 PM
Official Website	https://www.kusatsu-onsen.ne.jp/netsunoyu/show.html
Precaution	・Adults: ¥700 (tax included) ・Elementary school students: ¥350 (tax included) ・Tickets are available only at the ticket booth starting 30 minutes before each performance ・Reservations are not accepted

 

4:20 PM — Departure from Kusatsu, 8:00 PM Return to Kichijoji

The bus left Kusatsu at 4:20 PM and arrived at Kichijoji just on time at 8:00 PM — tired but refreshed, and already planning my next trip back.

 

Travel Tips: Ditch the Heels!

Kusatsu has a lot of steep slopes and footbaths, so comfortable shoes like sneakers are a must. Leave the high heels at home and enjoy the journey with ease.

 

Final Thoughts

From spiritual spots and steamy springs to retro games and nostalgic sweets, Kusatsu Onsen is the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and fun — all within a day trip from Tokyo.

If you’re looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trails and soak in authentic Japanese charm, Kusatsu is calling your name.

 

Click here to make a reservation for the highway bus：https://japanbusonline.com/en/CourseSearch/11301010001?AreaCd=313