• Yubatake - Yubatake serves as the symbolic core of Kusatsu Onsen, where hot spring water flows openly through the town’s center. Instead of being concealed underground, the water is prominently displayed, illustrating the close connection between Kusatsu’s daily life and its hot springs. As the water travels through wooden channels, minerals naturally cool, creating the iconic scene of rising steam and flowing water. Yubatake embodies the concept that hot springs in Japan are not just for bathing but are a communal resource that influences the town’s rhythm and culture.
• Kusatsu Onsen Netsunoyu - Netsu-no-Yu is a historic bathhouse renowned for its traditional yumomi performance, a unique technique developed in Kusatsu to cool extremely hot spring water without adding cold water. Performers use large wooden paddles to stir the water while singing folk songs, showcasing how locals adapted to the natural conditions of the hot springs. Observing yumomi provides insight into Kusatsu’s hot spring culture, where practical knowledge, music, and community traditions converge. The performance emphasizes that hot spring culture is as much about people and customs as it is about the water itself.
• Sainokawara Park - Sainokawara Park is an expansive area where hot spring water naturally flows through rocks, streams, and pools, surrounded by forested hills. This landscape reflects Kusatsu’s original image as a healing place, where visitors once stayed for extended periods to rest and recuperate in nature. Even without entering the baths, the sound of flowing water, rising steam, and warmth in the air explain why people have long been attracted to this area. The park offers a serene contrast to the town center and helps visitors appreciate the deeper meaning of hot springs as part of a slow and restorative lifestyle.

• Guided walking tour of Kusatsu Onsen
• Traditional yumomi performance at Netsu-no-Yu
• Visit to Sainokawara Park
• Visit to Yubatake

• Hot spring bathing

Explore the cultural importance of Kusatsu Onsen, a celebrated hot spring town in Japan, through this guided walking tour. Begin at Yubatake, where you can observe the distinctive qualities of Kusatsu’s hot springs and their impact on the town’s growth. Witness the traditional yumomi performance at Netsu-no-Yu, where locals stir the hot spring water while singing, highlighting the town’s rich cultural heritage. Enjoy sampling local snacks and sweets as you make your way to Sainokawara Park, a place that captures the healing spirit of the hot springs. This tour offers a deep dive into the Japanese onsen tradition beyond just bathing, emphasizing relaxation and community spirit.

• Guided walking tour highlighting the cultural elements of onsen
• Observe a traditional yumomi performance that reflects local traditions
• Sample local snacks while discovering the town
• Ends at Yubatake, allowing you to continue exploring Kusatsu at your leisure

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.