Kusatsu Onsen Must-Stay "Konoha"｜Hot Springs + Transportation + Meals Complete Guide, Best Value Ever!

After experiencing Kusatsu Onsen "Konoha," I can't help but highly recommend it! One night with two meals + shared premium hot springs, it's truly a savior for those on a budget who just want to relax～

🌿 Hot Spring Experience Full of Surprises

▪️ Two Bathhouses + Three Open-Air Private Baths: The main building’s large bath is divided into the "Stone Sauna Area" and the "Herbal Bath Area," with a special recommendation for the "Herbal Bath Pool"! After soaking, the soreness in my calves noticeably eased, reportedly because it contains Kusatsu’s specialty "White Birch Sap"～ The open-air private baths are hidden among bamboo groves, with lanterns lit at night, soaking while listening to the sound of snow falling on bamboo leaves—truly the "ultimate Japanese healing experience"～
▪️ Shared Benefits at Toki no Niwa: Share some hot springs with the neighboring upscale ryokan. You get to experience the design of "Toki no Niwa" at the price of "Konoha," maximizing value! Remember to soak during off-peak hours until 7 AM to almost have the entire pool to yourself～

🚌 Transportation Convenience for Lazy Travelers

▪️ Karuizawa JR Direct Shuttle: Book the free shuttle bus in advance; it takes about 1.5 hours from Karuizawa Station to the ryokan, saving you the hassle of transferring buses～ The driver will help with your luggage, and don’t forget to say "ありがとう" when you get off～
▪️ Onsen Street Loop Shuttle: There’s a free shuttle stop right at the ryokan entrance, running every 10 minutes directly to "Nishinokawara Onsen Street," super convenient for buying onsen manju and foot bath socks～ If you’re too lazy to walk back after soaking at night, just take the shuttle straight to your room!

🍽️ One Night Two Meals to Your Heart’s Content

▪️ Kaiseki Cuisine + Buffet: Dinner’s main dish is "Kusatsu Beef Sukiyaki," with sides like steamed yam, pickles, and miso soup. The buffet area also offers tempura, salad, and desserts to choose from～ Highly recommend trying the "White Birch Sap Pudding," which has a smooth texture with a resinous fragrance～
▪️ Late-Night Ramen + Morning Set Meal: After soaking until 10 PM, there’s even free ramen! The soy sauce broth is rich, and the bamboo shoots are super crunchy～ The breakfast "Onsen Egg Rice Bowl" is a must-order; breaking the yolk to reveal the runny center is so soothing～

⚠️ Pitfall Tips

✅ Rooms are indeed a bit old! The Japanese-style tatami rooms show signs of age; it’s recommended to choose the "Western-Japanese Mixed Room" for more comfort
✅ Soundproofing is average! Speak softly after soaking to avoid disturbing neighbors
✅ Private baths require advance reservation! Secure the "golden time slot" (5:00 PM–6:30 PM sunset period) upon check-in

Summary: Perfect for those who "want to experience the essence of Kusatsu Onsen without spending a fortune"! The hot springs are professional, transportation is hassle-free, and meals are abundant. Aside from the rooms being a bit old, there are almost no downsides～ Next time, I’ll bring my parents to let them enjoy the double happiness of "herbal baths + late-night ramen"!