{"id":7913,"date":"2025-06-25T15:46:40","date_gmt":"2025-06-25T06:46:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/?p=7913"},"modified":"2025-08-16T18:30:38","modified_gmt":"2025-08-16T09:30:38","slug":"a-perfect-day-trip-from-tokyo-discovering-the-charm-of-kusatsu-onsen-gunma","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/destination\/7913\/","title":{"rendered":"A Perfect Day Trip from Tokyo: Discovering the Charm of Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">June 1st, 2025<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway from Tokyo? I took a solo day trip to Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture \u2014 one of Japan\u2019s most iconic hot spring towns, and it completely exceeded my expectations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Just a heads-up: there\u2019s also a town called \u201cKusatsu\u201d in Shiga Prefecture, but the Kusatsu I visited is the famous hot spring spot in Gunma.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From steaming hot spring waters to nostalgic local treats and traditional performances, Kusatsu is full of surprises. Here&#8217;s how my day unfolded:<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Comfortable Ride from Tokyo \u2014 Bus with Wi-Fi, USB Ports &amp; Restroom!<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7948\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image9.png\" alt=\"kichijoji bus stop\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image9.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image9-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image9-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image9-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\t\t<style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t\t#gallery-1 {\n\t\t\t\tmargin: auto;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t#gallery-1 .gallery-item {\n\t\t\t\tfloat: left;\n\t\t\t\tmargin-top: 10px;\n\t\t\t\ttext-align: center;\n\t\t\t\twidth: 50%;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t#gallery-1 img {\n\t\t\t\tborder: 2px solid #cfcfcf;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t#gallery-1 .gallery-caption {\n\t\t\t\tmargin-left: 0;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t\/* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes\/media.php *\/\n\t\t<\/style>\n\t\t<div id='gallery-1' class='gallery galleryid-7913 gallery-columns-2 gallery-size-full'><dl class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<dt class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/destination\/7913\/attachment\/image11-4\/'><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image11.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"highway bus\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image11.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image11-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image11-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image11-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/dt><\/dl><dl class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<dt class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/destination\/7913\/attachment\/image15-4\/'><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image15.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"highway bus\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image15.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image15-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image15-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image15-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/dt><\/dl><br style=\"clear: both\" \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I departed from Kichijoji at 7:40 AM, hopping on a comfortable highway bus equipped with Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and a restroom \u2014 all the essentials for a smooth ride.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8301\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71acef39-a399-4b24-9841-d89f8c95dff2.png\" alt=\"kamisato SA\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71acef39-a399-4b24-9841-d89f8c95dff2.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71acef39-a399-4b24-9841-d89f8c95dff2-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71acef39-a399-4b24-9841-d89f8c95dff2-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71acef39-a399-4b24-9841-d89f8c95dff2-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\ud83d\udca1Note: Bus tickets must be purchased online using a credit card \u2014 no cash or IC cards accepted!<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>11:10 AM \u2014 Arrival at Kusatsu Bus Terminal: Greeted by Sulfur in the Air<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7924\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image3.png\" alt=\"Kusatsu Bus Terminal\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image3.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image3-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image3-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image3-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The moment I stepped off the bus, I was embraced by the unmistakable scent of sulfur and boiled eggs \u2014 a natural sign that you\u2019ve arrived in a true onsen town.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This distinctive aroma comes from hydrogen sulfide gas released by the area&#8217;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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>&nbsp;Kosenji Temple: A Historical Sanctuary Overlooking the Town<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8305\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/574d4067-ef33-4d63-bd53-cb2fbb9a35af.png\" alt=\"Kosenji Temple\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/574d4067-ef33-4d63-bd53-cb2fbb9a35af.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/574d4067-ef33-4d63-bd53-cb2fbb9a35af-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/574d4067-ef33-4d63-bd53-cb2fbb9a35af-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/574d4067-ef33-4d63-bd53-cb2fbb9a35af-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8293\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7aaeb9ca-3709-49f2-80f8-79f70ca31693.png\" alt=\"Kosenji Temple\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7aaeb9ca-3709-49f2-80f8-79f70ca31693.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7aaeb9ca-3709-49f2-80f8-79f70ca31693-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7aaeb9ca-3709-49f2-80f8-79f70ca31693-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7aaeb9ca-3709-49f2-80f8-79f70ca31693-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This Buddhist temple dates back to the early 9th century (Heian period) and enshrines Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing \u2014 making it a popular spot for those seeking health and well-being.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surrounded by trees and perched on a hill, this quiet corner of Kusatsu gives you a peaceful moment away from the bustling onsen streets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u25ceKosenji Templ\uff08\u5149\u6cc9\u5bfa,Kosen ji\uff09<\/span><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 96.2548%; height: 120px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.7772%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 112.041%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/aVMphEbELD6mZjq1A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/nLjeNCHjcZYFFCpe8<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.7772%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business Hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 112.041%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open 24 hours<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.7772%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opening Hours \/ Business Hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 112.041%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">None (Open daily)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.7772%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official Website<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 112.041%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kusatsu.ne.jp\/kousenji\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.kusatsu.ne.jp\/kousenji\/<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 33.7772%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Precaution<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 112.041%; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Free of charge<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Local Lunch at \u201cMatsumoto\u201d \u2014 Handmade Udon with Heart<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7916\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image1.png\" alt=\"Local Lunch at \u201cMatsumoto\u201d \u2014 Handmade Udon with Heart\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image1.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image1-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image1-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image1-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7960\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image12.png\" alt=\"Local Lunch at \u201cMatsumoto\u201d \u2014 Handmade Udon with Heart\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image12.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image12-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image12-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image12-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bonus: They offer an English menu, so even if you don\u2019t speak Japanese, ordering is a breeze!<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cash only, so make sure you\u2019re carrying some JP yen.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u25ceMatsumoto(\u307e\u3064\u3082\u3068)<\/span><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 96.2191%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 28.9186%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 66.5987%;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/gpYEvDkTXfGWhjaq7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/gpYEvDkTXfGWhjaq7<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 28.9186%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business Hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 66.5987%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11:00AM<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 28.9186%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opening Hours \/ Business Hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 66.5987%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4:00PM<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 28.9186%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official Website<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 66.5987%;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/matsumoto_932?igsh=cDNoMG4yMWdzdnE%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/matsumoto_932?igsh=cDNoMG4yMWdzdnE%3D<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 28.9186%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Precaution<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 66.5987%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbIrregular holidays \u2014 please check IG for the latest updates<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbCash only<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><b>\ud83d\udca1 Payment Tip: Cash is Still King<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Around town, many small shops and food stalls only accept cash. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it\u2019s best to bring enough cash with you for meals, souvenirs, and snacks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Food Stalls Galore \u2014 Save Room for Snacking!<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\t\t<style type=\"text\/css\">\n\t\t\t#gallery-2 {\n\t\t\t\tmargin: auto;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t#gallery-2 .gallery-item {\n\t\t\t\tfloat: left;\n\t\t\t\tmargin-top: 10px;\n\t\t\t\ttext-align: center;\n\t\t\t\twidth: 50%;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t#gallery-2 img {\n\t\t\t\tborder: 2px solid #cfcfcf;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t#gallery-2 .gallery-caption {\n\t\t\t\tmargin-left: 0;\n\t\t\t}\n\t\t\t\/* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes\/media.php *\/\n\t\t<\/style>\n\t\t<div id='gallery-2' class='gallery galleryid-7913 gallery-columns-2 gallery-size-full'><dl class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<dt class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/destination\/7913\/attachment\/image10-6\/'><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image10-1.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"dumpling\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image10-1.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image10-1-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image10-1-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image10-1-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/dt><\/dl><dl class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<dt class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/destination\/7913\/attachment\/image2-7\/'><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image2.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"Food Stalls Galore \u2014 Save Room for Snacking!\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image2.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image2-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image2-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image2-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/dt><\/dl><br style=\"clear: both\" \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After lunch, I wandered around the Yubatake area and found tons of delicious street food options \u2014 hot spring buns, grilled rice crackers, milk soft serve, and more.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\ud83d\udca1Pro tip: Don\u2019t overeat at lunch! Keep your stomach around 50% full so you can indulge in these local treats throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Retro Fun at \u201cShowa Amusement Tomoeya\u201d \u2014 Shoot for Snacks!<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7936\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image6.png\" alt=\"Retro Fun at \u201cShowa Amusement Tomoeya\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image6.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image6-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image6-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image6-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most delightful surprises was visiting Showa Amusement Tomoeya, a retro-themed shooting game arcade right by the Yubatake.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It felt like stepping back in time \u2014 with vintage posters, nostalgic music, and good old-fashioned Shateki (Japanese shooting games).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7976\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image16.png\" alt=\"Retro Fun at \u201cShowa Amusement Tomoeya\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image16.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image16-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image16-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image16-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You earn points based on your aim, and can exchange them for classic Japanese snacks that every local kid grew up with. It\u2019s playful, quirky, and a great way to experience Japan\u2019s nostalgic charm.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u25ceShowa Amusement Tomoeya(\u662d\u548c\u30a2\u30df\u30e5\u30fc\u30ba\u30e1\u30f3\u30c8\u3068\u3082\u3048\u3084\uff09<\/span><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 97.5%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 38.5525%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 92.7274%;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/RCiBKTSu9Q95gEUQ6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/RCiBKTSu9Q95gEUQ6<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 38.5525%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business Hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 92.7274%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10:00AM<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 38.5525%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opening Hours \/ Business Hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 92.7274%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10:00PM<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 38.5525%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official Website<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 92.7274%;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/asobinohiroba.kusatsuonsen-tomoeya.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/asobinohiroba.kusatsuonsen-tomoeya.com\/<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 38.5525%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Precaution<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 92.7274%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbOpen daily (subject to occasional temporary closures)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbCash only<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Timeless Beauty of Traditional Ryokan<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7932\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image5.png\" alt=\"Timeless Beauty of Traditional Ryokan\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image5.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image5-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image5-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image5-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7964\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image13.png\" alt=\"Timeless Beauty of Traditional Ryokan\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image13.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image13-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image13-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image13-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There\u2019s a quiet dignity in these buildings \u2014 a reflection of Japan\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>3:30 PM \u2014 \u201cYumomi\u201d Show: A Unique Cultural Tradition<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At Netsu-no-Yu, I attended the famous Yumomi Show, one of Kusatsu\u2019s most iconic attractions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8297\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7afd7fbe-e0ef-4bff-83d9-bf93bf259b5c.png\" alt=\"Yumomi-show\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1999\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7afd7fbe-e0ef-4bff-83d9-bf93bf259b5c.png 1500w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7afd7fbe-e0ef-4bff-83d9-bf93bf259b5c-225x300.png 225w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7afd7fbe-e0ef-4bff-83d9-bf93bf259b5c-768x1023.png 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/7afd7fbe-e0ef-4bff-83d9-bf93bf259b5c-1153x1536.png 1153w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because the spring water emerges at over 50\u00b0C (122\u00b0F), locals traditionally cool it down by stirring it with large wooden paddles instead of adding cold water \u2014 preserving its mineral content.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This method, called Yumomi, has been passed down for centuries and is performed with singing and traditional dances.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visitors can enjoy the show from either the first or second floor, and it\u2019s a fun, interactive way to learn about Kusatsu\u2019s rich onsen culture.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u25ceYumomi Show\uff08\u6e6f\u3082\u307f\u30b7\u30e7\u30fc\uff09<\/span><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 97.1694%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 22.9567%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 82.3302%;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZHjRuTQDhcmXy4dy8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ZHjRuTQDhcmXy4dy8<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 22.9567%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business Hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 82.3302%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open daily throughout the year<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Six performances per day:<\/span> &nbsp;<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Morning: 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM<\/span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afternoon: 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM, 4:30 PM<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 22.9567%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official Website<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 82.3302%;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kusatsu-onsen.ne.jp\/netsunoyu\/show.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.kusatsu-onsen.ne.jp\/netsunoyu\/show.html<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 22.9567%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Precaution<\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 82.3302%;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbAdults: \u00a5700 (tax included)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbElementary school students: \u00a5350 (tax included)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbTickets are available only at the ticket booth starting 30 minutes before each performance<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u30fbReservations are not accepted<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>4:20 PM \u2014 Departure from Kusatsu, 8:00 PM Return to Kichijoji<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bus left Kusatsu at 4:20 PM and arrived at Kichijoji just on time at 8:00 PM \u2014 tired but refreshed, and already planning my next trip back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><b>\ud83d\udca1Travel Tips: Ditch the Heels!<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Final Thoughts<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From spiritual spots and steamy springs to retro games and nostalgic sweets, Kusatsu Onsen is the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and fun \u2014 all within a day trip from Tokyo.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trails and soak in authentic Japanese charm, Kusatsu is calling your name.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Click here to make a reservation for the highway bus\uff1a<span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/en\/CourseSearch\/11301010001?AreaCd=313\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/en\/CourseSearch\/11301010001?AreaCd=313<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div style=\"border: 5px double #91d8ac; padding: 10px; border-radius: 10px; text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt; color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If you want to make a reservation for an expressway bus,<br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/en\">Please go to &#8220;Japan Bus Online&#8221;<\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/span><br \/>\n<\/strong>The information in this article is current at the time of writing.<br \/>\nIt may differ from the latest information.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"June 1st, 2025 Looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway from Tokyo? I took a solo day trip to Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture \u2014 one of Japan\u2019s most iconic hot spring towns, and it completely exceeded my expectations. Just a heads-up: there\u2019s also a town called \u201cKusatsu\u201d 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&#8217;s how my day unfolded: &nbsp; Comfortable Ride from [&hellip;]","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7952,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[209,195,213],"tags":[],"area":[201],"interest":[277,278,279],"format_tax":[],"class_list":["post-7913","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-culture","category-destination","category-entertainment","area-kanto","interest-food","interest-hot-spring","interest-temple-shrine"],"acf":{"linktitle":"","link":false,"ctatitle":"","ctalink":""},"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7913","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7913"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7913\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8310,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7913\/revisions\/8310"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7952"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7913"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7913"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7913"},{"taxonomy":"area","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/area?post=7913"},{"taxonomy":"interest","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/interest?post=7913"},{"taxonomy":"format_tax","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/format_tax?post=7913"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}