11 Best Onsen Hotels in Kusatsu, Japan (Top Hot Spring Ryokans)

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Kusatsu isn’t your average hot spring town — the air literally smells of sulfur, and steam rises from the streets like a scene from another world. Locals swear the waters here can cure anything from fatigue to heartbreak, and after a long soak, you might just believe them. From traditional wooden inns tucked into quiet hillsides to modern stays with private outdoor baths, here are the best onsen ryokan worth checking into in Kusatsu.

Kusatsu Onsen Hotels

Quick snapshot: Which ryokan fits your trip?

Best for First-Timers (easy walk to Yubatake)

If you’re new to Kusatsu, staying near Yubatake is a no-brainer. It’s the town’s heart — where the steam rises, the foot baths bubble, and the evening lights make everything glow. For a front-row seat to all that action:

• Hotel Ichii – Literally steps from Yubatake. You can watch the steam rise from your window. Rooms are spacious, and they offer both communal and private onsens.
• Urakusatsu TOU – About a 3-minute walk to Yubatake. Newly built, stylish rooms, some with in-room baths. It’s lively, convenient, and gives you that “Kusatsu energy” instantly.

Best for Romance & Private Onsens

Couples, this one’s for you. If you want to soak without sharing the tub:

• Aeruyado Takamatsu – About a 5-minute walk from Yubatake. Offers rooms with private open-air baths. Modern Japanese-style rooms with twin beds.
• La Vista Kusatsu Hills – On a hill with sweeping mountain views. Private open-air baths in rooms, tranquil and secluded, ideal for soaking with your partner without interruptions.
• Tokinoniwa – 10-minute free shuttle from Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal. Deluxe rooms with private open-air baths, serene hilltop location, perfect for escaping the town buzz.

Best for Families & Groups

Traveling with the crew? You need space and flexibility:

• Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya – About a 10-minute walk from Yubatake. Offers rooms with in-room hot spring baths. Family-friendly with board games and activities.
• Hotel Sakurai – A 10-minute walk from Yubatake. Family-friendly with a children’s pool and multiple dining options.

Best for Budget Travelers

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Kusatsu:

• Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Village – Rooms start from $130 per night. Offers both communal and private onsens. Located a short distance from Yubatake.
• Oyado Yukizumi – Rooms start from $140 per night. Just 300 meters from Yubatake. Offers traditional Japanese-style rooms.

How To Pick A Kusatsu Ryokan (Practical Checklist)

Public Vs Private Baths

Public baths are the town’s soul — big, social, and steamy. If you’re here to mingle with locals or feel the communal energy, these are your jam. Private baths, on the other hand, are for those who want zero distractions. Hotels like Tokinoniwa, Aeruyado Takamatsu, and La Vista Kusatsu Hills offer in-room open-air onsens, but book months in advance — they vanish faster than free-flowing hot water.

Bath Hours & Policies

Ryokan aren’t 24/7 playgrounds. Public onsens often close at night for cleaning, and some private baths have restricted check-in windows. Look up exact hours before booking. Some ryokan also rotate bath usage between men and women, so double-check if your schedule matters.

Room Types & Bedding

Tatami rooms scream Japanese charm, but if your family can’t handle floor sleeping, pick a ryokan with Western beds — Hotel Ichii and Eidaya have hybrid rooms. Check if rooms come with private baths or if you’ll share communal space. Size matters too: group travelers need rooms that actually fit all bodies comfortably.

Meals & Dining

Meals are a major part of the experience, not a side note. Kaiseki dinners are traditional, multi-course affairs. Some ryokan are strict — eat what’s served, when it’s served. Others accommodate dietary tweaks if you ask early. Always clarify: included meals, extra charges, and portion sizes.

Shuttles & Transport

Kusatsu’s steep hills and cold winters make hotel shuttles gold. Check if your ryokan offers free pick-up from the bus terminal, and consider luggage forwarding (takuhaibin) to avoid hauling bags. Walking times can be misleading if you’re carrying luggage or traveling with kids.

Getting There & Getting Around Kusatsu

From Tokyo In A Weekend (Sample Timings)

Most travelers take the bus — the JR Express Bus from Shinjuku Station is the fastest and most direct. Travel time is roughly 3.5 hours, and buses drop you close to Yubatake. If you prefer trains, it’s a two-step journey: Shinjuku → Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station (JR Joetsu Line, ~2.5 hrs), then a 25-min bus to Kusatsu town center. For a weekend trip, morning departures get you into town by lunch, leaving plenty of time for soaking and exploring.

Getting Around Kusatsu

• Town layout & hills: Kusatsu is compact but hilly. Yubatake is the central hub, and most shops, foot baths, and restaurants cluster around it. Walking is easy for fit travelers but luggage and winter conditions can make hills tricky.
• Shuttles & local buses: Many ryokan offer free shuttles from the bus terminal. There’s also a small town bus that stops near major ryokan and attractions.
• Biking & walking tips: Some travelers rent bikes in summer; in winter, stick to walking with sturdy shoes.
• Luggage hacks: Use takuhaibin services to forward your luggage from the station to the hotel — you can explore hands-free.
• Timing matters: Allow extra time for uphill walks or icy sidewalks in winter, especially if you have kids or elderly travelers.

Onsen Etiquette & Health Considerations (Do This Right)

Kusatsu’s onsens are magical, but stepping in unprepared can make you the awkward outsider in a sea of locals. Follow the rules and respect the flow, and you’ll soak stress-free without embarrassing yourself.

Step-By-Step Bath Ritual

1. Shower First – Always wash and rinse thoroughly before entering the communal bath. Soap and shampoo go at the washing stations; never jump straight into the water.
2. Keep Towels Out of the Bath – Small towels are for modesty while walking, not for soaking. Leave them on the side or drape them on your head.
3. Quiet Respect – Onsen are for relaxation. Loud talking, splashing, or phone use is frowned upon.

Tattoos & Entry

Kusatsu is slightly more relaxed than some other onsens, but tattoos can still be an issue. Large or visible tattoos may be banned from public baths. Options:

• Choose ryokan with private baths in-room
• Ask politely if small tattoos are allowed; some hotels provide cover stickers

Health & Safety

• Water Temperature: Hot springs can exceed 42°C (107°F). Limit your first soak to 5–10 minutes and cool down gradually.
• Pregnancy / Heart Conditions: High temperatures can be risky. Always consult your doctor and take it slow.
• Hydration: Drink water before and after to avoid dehydration.

Modesty & Cultural Notes

• Tie yukata properly and wear slippers only in designated areas.
• Never swim or dive; onsen are for soaking only.
• Rinse off completely before re-entering if using multiple baths.

Seasonal Considerations & Peak Times

❄️ Winter (December–February)

• Vibe: Snow everywhere, streets steaming like a live volcano, and the hot water feels like heaven.
• Crowds: Peak ski and winter holiday season can jam buses and public baths.
• Tips: Book private onsens months ahead. Bring winter boots; hills get icy fast.

🌸 Spring (March–May)

• Vibe: Cherry blossoms peek around town; foot baths and outdoor onsens are refreshing against cool air.
• Crowds: Spring break and Golden Week (late April–early May) bring heavy crowds.
• Tips: Weekdays are gold. Onsen temps feel milder, so you can linger longer.

☀️ Summer (June–August)

• Vibe: Green hills, cool mornings, and surprisingly quiet town streets.
• Crowds: Surprisingly low except for Obon holidays (mid-August).
• Tips: Take advantage of daytime outdoor foot baths and explore short trails. Sunscreen and light layers recommended.

🍁 Autumn (September–November)

• Vibe: Maple and ginkgo trees put on a show — town photos suddenly look cinematic.
• Crowds: Moderate, weekends busier than weekdays.
• Tips: Late October–early November is prime for photos. Evening onsen soaks feel magical against crisp air.

FAQs

1. Can I pay with credit card or only cash?

Most ryokan accept major credit cards, but smaller or traditional inns may prefer cash. Always check in advance.

2. Are there English-speaking staff at ryokan?

Some larger or modern ryokan have English-speaking staff. For smaller, traditional inns, basic English is usually fine, but translation apps help.

3. Is Wi-Fi available in rooms?

Wi-Fi is common in main lobbies; many ryokan offer in-room Wi-Fi, but speed and coverage can vary.

4. Are children welcome at all ryokan?

Not all ryokan accept kids. Adult-only hotels like Kusatsu Hotel Bekkan Wata no Yu have strict age policies.

5. Can I request a late check-out?

Some ryokan allow late check-out if requested in advance, but it’s not guaranteed and may incur a fee.

6. Are hairdryers, toiletries, and towels provided?

Yes, most ryokan supply basic toiletries, towels, and hairdryers, but specialty items (e.g., razors, skincare) may not be included.

7. How quiet are ryokan at night?

Ryokan are generally quiet, but town-center locations may hear street foot traffic or evening crowds. Rooms with garden or hillside views are typically quieter.