Kusatsu Onsen’s High-Value Choice "Konoha"｜A Guide to Soaking in 4 Different Baths in One Day!

Kyoritsu Group’s "Konoha" is truly the "Time Management Master" of Kusatsu Onsen! The large public baths alternate daily between men’s and women’s use, combined with 3 free private hot springs, allowing you to experience 4 completely different bathing pleasures in just one day～

🌿 The "Cost-Performance Code" of the Large Public Baths

▪️ Surprise with Two Bath Pools Alternating
The main building features two large baths, "Aokaze no Yu" and "Momiji no Yu," which switch men’s and women’s access at midnight. On the day of your stay, soak first in the open-air bath of "Aokaze" (surrounded by green trees, perfect for daytime), then the next morning head to the "Momiji" rock bath area (heated stone loungers are super relaxing). Remember to bring a waterproof phone case to capture the swaying shadows of the trees while bathing～
▪️ Seasonal Outdoor Pools
In autumn, open the wooden door of "Aokaze no Yu" to see the pool filled with red leaves swaying with the waves; in winter, snow drifts over the open-air bath of "Momiji no Yu," where steam and snowflakes dance together under the lights. After soaking, use the hotel’s "onsen steam facial device" for skincare, instantly brightening your complexion～

🛀 The "Exclusive Experience" of Private Hot Springs

▪️ Choose from 3 Free Private Baths
The three private hot springs "Takeya," "Matsukaze," and "Umeage" each have distinct styles: "Takeya" is surrounded by bamboo groves, ideal for quiet meditation; "Matsukaze" has driftwood seats where you can listen to the wind through pine needles, very healing; "Umeage" offers plum blossom reflections in spring and a heater for warmth in winter. During the day, there’s almost no waiting, but during peak evening hours (7:00-9:00 PM), expect to wait for 3-5 groups, so it’s recommended to visit the large baths first to avoid the rush～
▪️ Water Temperature Adjustment Tips
The private hot springs are on average 3°C hotter than the large public baths! If you’re worried about the heat, first open the "cold water valve" (blue button on the wall) and adjust to about 40°C for more comfort. After soaking, drink a complimentary chilled Yakult from the hotel for an exhilarating hot-and-cold sensation that instantly refreshes you!

🍳 Breakfast and Nearby Delicacies

▪️ Hearty Brunch for 1600 Yen
The buffet breakfast includes Japanese set meals and Western dishes: freshly toasted bread spread with Kusatsu honey, onsen egg mixed with rice and golden runny yolk, and fresh pineapple sweet as if honeyed. Don’t forget to grab a serving of "grated yam soba noodles," refreshing and perfect for awakening your taste buds after bathing～
▪️ Sweet Treats in the Onsen Town
A 5-minute walk from the hotel to "Yubatake" is a must to buy "Onsen Yokan" (¥350/box)! The red bean flavor is rich but not heavy, and the matcha flavor carries a faint sulfur aroma (strangely pleasant). When passing by the "Kusatsu Milk Ice Cream" stand, be sure to add a serving of "Shiratama Dango" (rice flour dumplings), whose chewy texture perfectly complements the cool milky sweetness～

📍 Useful Check-in Tips

✅ The baths provide shampoo and conditioner, but it’s recommended to bring your own bath sponge (the hotel only offers small bars of soap)
✅ The private hot spring entrances have a "In Use" indicator light; do not enter when the red light is on (respect others’ privacy)
✅ After checkout, you can use the free coin-operated luggage lockers (to the right of the hotel entrance) to explore the onsen town light and easy

Summary: "Konoha" is truly a paradise for "hot spring experts"! Experience a variety of baths at an affordable price, paired with a hearty breakfast and local delicacies, fully satisfying the greedy wish to soak in all the highlights of Kusatsu in one day～ Next time, try the "late-night private hot spring," turn off the lights and soak under the stars—just thinking about it gives you goosebumps from the romance～