Meet people in Kusatsu

This cafe offers a relaxed environment where locals and visitors can enjoy coffee and light snacks. Its location makes it a convenient stop after exploring the Yubatake area. The atmosphere is quiet and welcoming, suitable for those looking to read, plan their day, or engage in casual conversation in a comfortable, indoor setting.

Try their locally inspired desserts for a taste of regional flavors.

Situated in the heart of the town, this venue serves as a traditional spot for evening drinks. It features a cozy interior that encourages social interaction among patrons. The selection of local beverages and simple bar food makes it a common choice for those looking to unwind after a day of soaking in the various hot springs.

Visit during the early evening to enjoy a more relaxed crowd before the late-night rush.

The Yubatake is the iconic heart of Kusatsu, serving as the primary source of the town's famous hot spring water. This large-scale wooden installation allows the naturally scalding water to cool as it flows through a series of channels before being distributed to various bathhouses. At night, the area is illuminated, creating a dramatic atmosphere as steam rises against the dark sky. Visitors can walk along the perimeter, observing the intricate engineering and the vibrant, sulfur-rich colors of the water, which form a central hub for social activity and photography in the town.

Visit after sunset when the area is beautifully lit and the steam creates a mystical environment.

Sai-no-Kawara Park is a scenic valley located a short walk from the town center, where hot water bubbles up from the ground and flows through a rocky landscape. The park features a large open-air bath, one of the biggest in Japan, allowing visitors to soak while surrounded by nature. The walking paths meander past small shrines and steaming pools, offering a tranquil escape from the busier areas of the town. It is a place of natural beauty that changes significantly with the seasons, from lush greenery in summer to snow-covered paths in winter.

Bring a towel and comfortable shoes, as the path involves some gentle uphill walking.

Located on the slopes of Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, this resort offers expansive views and varied terrain for winter sports enthusiasts. During the winter months, the area becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding, while the warmer seasons transform the slopes into a destination for hiking and mountain biking. The resort provides a different perspective on the region's geography, moving away from the town's thermal focus to the rugged beauty of the surrounding peaks. It is a popular spot for those seeking active outdoor experiences in the Japanese Alps.

Check the official website for seasonal activity schedules and lift status before planning your trip.

Netsu-no-Yu is a historic facility dedicated to the traditional 'yumomi' performance, where local women use large wooden paddles to stir the hot spring water to the correct temperature while singing folk songs. This practice is essential to the Kusatsu bathing experience, and the venue offers daily demonstrations that allow visitors to witness this cultural heritage firsthand. The architecture is reminiscent of the Taisho era, providing an immersive look into the history of the town's bath culture and the social customs that have defined it for generations.

Arrive early for performances, as seating in the viewing area can fill up quickly.