Kusatsu: Hot Spring Culture Walk at Yubatake & Sainokawara
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the cultural significance of Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most renowned hot spring towns, on this guided walking tour. Starting at Yubatake, observe the unique properties of Kusatsu's hot springs and their influence on the town's development. Experience the traditional yumomi performance at Netsu-no-Yu, where locals stir hot spring water while singing, showcasing the town's rich heritage. Enjoy casual tastings of local snacks and sweets as you stroll towards Sainokawara Park, an area that embodies the healing essence of the hot springs. This tour provides an insightful look into the Japanese tradition of onsen beyond bathing, focusing on relaxation and community spirit.
- Guided walking tour focusing on the cultural aspects of onsen
- Watch a traditional yumomi performance showcasing local customs
- Casual tasting of local snacks while exploring the town
- Concludes at Yubatake, leaving you free to explore Kusatsu further
Available options
Kusatsuguchi Station Meeting
Kusatsuguchi Station Meeting<br/>Starting point:<br/>Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station, Naganohara, Agatsuma District, Gunma 377-1304, Japan
Kusatsu: Hot Spring Culture Walk at Yubatake & Sainokawara
Starting point:<br/>7-Eleven; Gunma Kusatsu Yubatake, 401 Kusatsu, Agatsuma District, Gunma 377-1711, Japan
What's included
Guided walking tour of Kusatsu Onsen
Traditional yumomi performance at Netsu-no-Yu
Visit to Sainokawara Park
Visit to Yubatake
Detailed itinerary
1
Yubatake is the symbolic heart of Kusatsu Onsen, where steaming hot spring water flows openly through the center of town. Rather than being hidden underground, the water is intentionally displayed, showing how closely daily life in Kusatsu is connected to its hot springs. Minerals naturally cool as the water flows across wooden channels, creating the iconic scenery of rising steam and flowing water. Yubatake represents the idea that hot springs in Japan are not only for bathing, but a shared resource that shapes the town, its rhythm, and its culture.
2
Netsu-no-Yu is a historic bathhouse known for its traditional yumomi performance, a unique method developed in Kusatsu to cool extremely hot spring water without adding cold water. Using large wooden paddles, performers stir the water while singing folk songs, demonstrating how local people adapted to the natural conditions of the hot springs. Watching yumomi offers insight into Kusatsu’s hot spring culture, where practical knowledge, music, and community traditions come together. The performance highlights that hot spring culture is as much about people and custom as it is about the water itself.
3
Sainokawara Park is a wide open area where hot spring water naturally flows through rocks, streams, and pools, surrounded by forested hills. This landscape reflects the original image of Kusatsu as a place of healing, where visitors once stayed for extended periods to rest and recover in nature. Even without entering the baths, the sound of flowing water, rising steam, and warmth in the air convey why people have long been drawn to this area. The park offers a quiet contrast to the town center and helps visitors understand the deeper meaning of hot springs as part of a slow and restorative way of life.
What's not included
Hot spring bathing
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
If you select the station meeting option, please meet in front of the ticket gates at Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station.
Your guide will be waiting with a yellow signboard.
The group will travel together to Kusatsu Onsen by local bus.
About Kanto
Kanto is one of Japan's most populous and economically significant regions, home to Tokyo, the country's bustling capital. It offers a vibrant mix of ultramodern city life, historic temples, and serene natural landscapes, making it a dynamic destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Tokyo Tower
A iconic tower inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offering panoramic views of Tokyo.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (1,000-3,000 JPY)
Shibuya Crossing
The world's busiest pedestrian crossing, surrounded by neon lights and shopping.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
A lavishly decorated shrine complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Historical/Religious
Half day to full day
Moderate (1,000-3,000 JPY)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sushi
Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.
Dinner
Contains fish, may contain allergens
Ramen
Noodle soup with various toppings, a popular comfort food.
Dinner
Varies by type (vegetarian options available)
Tempura
Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, a crispy and flavorful dish.
Dinner
Contains fish and shellfish, may contain allergens
Popular Activities
Hiking in Nikko or Kamakura
Skiing in Nagano (winter)
Canyoning in Izu Peninsula
Onsen (hot spring) visits in Hakone
Tea ceremonies in traditional tea houses
Picnics in Ueno Park
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional crafts workshops
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
These seasons offer mild weather and are ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoor activities. Spring is famous for cherry blossoms, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kanto is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis and public transportation
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 60 km from Tokyo
- Haneda Airport • 15 km from Tokyo
By train
Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station
By bus
Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It can be complex for first-time visitors, so consider getting a Suica or Pasmo IC card for easy payments.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Shibuya
Asakusa
Shinjuku
Day trips
Nikko
150 km from Tokyo • Full day
A city known for its historic temples, shrines, and natural beauty, including waterfalls and hot springs.
Kamakura
50 km from Tokyo • Half day to full day
A coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue.
Hakone
100 km from Tokyo • Full day
A hot spring resort town known for its scenic views of Mount Fuji, onsen (hot springs), and the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Festivals
Sanno Matsuri • Mid-June (even years)
Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July
Asakusa Shinto Festival • Mid-May
Pro tips
- Use IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) for seamless and discounted public transportation
- Consider purchasing a JR Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains if visiting multiple cities in Kanto
- Download useful apps (e.g., Google Maps, Japan Travel, Japan Official Travel App) for navigation, translation, and local information
- Learn basic Japanese phrases to enhance your travel experience and interact with locals
- Carry cash for small shops, markets, and rural areas, as credit card acceptance can be limited
$93
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
