Japan's No.1 Hot Spring: Kusatsu Onsen｜A Perfect Soak Experience

For 20 consecutive years, Kusatsu has been crowned Japan's top hot spring destination, and it truly lives up to its reputation! Just an hour's drive from Karuizawa to Gunma Prefecture, you'll be greeted by the distinct sulfur aroma as soon as you step out of the car, kicking off a dual-mode experience of 'beauty + relaxation.'

🌿 Must-Try Hot Spring Treasures

✅ Yubatake Onsen Street: Steamy Natural Therapy
The town's most iconic 'Yubatake' hot spring pool resembles a mini waterfall, with layers of blue and white spring water cascading down. Rent a wooden basin to try 'hand baths' (¥200/session), and let the warm water instantly chase away the chill. Nearby, the 'Foot Bath Plaza' is open for free—take off your shoes, soak your feet, and watch autumn leaves drift into the pool, creating a serene moment that might make you hum a tune.

✅ Sai-no-Kawara Park Open-Air Bath: Autumn's Stunning Scenery
For just ¥500, you can immerse yourself in a large open-air hot spring surrounded by mountain forests! The gender-separated baths are encircled by vibrant autumn foliage, offering breathtaking views of golden-red mountains while you soak. It's like stepping into a 'live postcard.' Don't forget to bring your own towel (available for purchase on-site for ¥300 each). After your soak, enjoy a sip of the complimentary chilled milk from the inn—it’s refreshingly delightful!

✅ Private Nighttime Baths at the Inn: Exclusive Tranquility
Stay overnight at the 'Konoha' inn, which shares hot spring pools with high-end accommodations but offers a more budget-friendly option. Book a 'private nighttime bath' (¥1000/30 minutes) to enjoy a secluded open-air pool surrounded by bamboo groves. Listen to the chirping insects as you soak, and let all your fatigue melt away. Afterward, indulge in the inn's specially prepared hot spring yokan (sweet bean jelly)—pure bliss!

🍽️ Local Flavors to Savor While Soaking

▪️ Onsen Street Snack Tour
The 'onsen-boiled eggs' are a must-try! The sulfur turns the eggshells a golden-brown color, while the egg whites are bouncy and the yolks are creamy—only ¥150 each, a steal! Also, check out the roadside 'oden stalls,' where the daikon radish absorbs the flavorful hot spring broth. Sprinkle some shichimi spice for an extra kick—it’s irresistible!

▪️ Foot Bath + Dining Combo
Visit the 'Yunohana' restaurant, where you can sit by the street-side seats and enjoy 'Kusatsu beef sukiyaki' while soaking your feet in flowing foot baths. Dip the beef for 10 seconds, pair it with raw egg sauce, and savor the melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. Don’t forget to add a serving of 'onsen egg rice'—mixing the yolk creates a dish that’s like 'liquid gold.'

🚗 Transportation and Seasonal Tips

✅ Take the express bus directly from Tokyo's Ikebukuro to Kusatsu (¥3200/3.5 hours)—more convenient than transferring via JR.
✅ The hot spring water is highly acidic, so sensitive skin should apply moisturizer after soaking. Inns usually provide complimentary samples.

Summary: Kusatsu Onsen's title as 'No.1' is well-deserved! From its spectacular natural spring scenery and affordable soaking experiences to its unique 'dining while soaking' culture, it’s a destination you’ll want to visit again and again. Next time, I’ll bring my mom along so she can experience the dual healing of 'beauty baths + autumn foliage views.'