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Kusatsu Onsen Day Trip

Sainokawara Park

Historical Building in Kusatsu Onsen

Shrine in Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen Town

Yumomi Show

Kusatsu Onsen Day Trip

Off the Beaten Path

Joined 2024

Grant A.

5.00 / 5

(86 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Tokyo

English (Native), Japanese

14 hours

Private tour (only you and Grant A.)

Up to 6 people

Embark on a journey through time at Kusatsu Onsen, where the iconic Yubatake showcases centuries of history in its quaint old buildings. Delight in the traditional Yumomi show, then wander through Saikokawara Park, immersed in nature's tranquility. Finally, rejuvenate your body and soul at Sainokawara Rotemburo, a sprawling outdoor onsen offering serene relaxation amidst picturesque surroundings.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

07:00 AM

Meeting Point

Your Hotel

- I can meet you at your hotel anywhere in Tokyo.

07:50 AM

Tokyo JR Station

We can catch the 7:52am bullet train to Takasaki.

Then the local train to Naganohara Kusatsuguchi departing 8:53am arriving at 10:19.

Finally we will take a bus ride the remainder of the way to the Kusatsu Onsen. The bus leaves shortly after the train arrives. Takes about 30minutes

11:00 AM

Exploring Kusatsu's Iconic Yubatake

As the heart of Kusatsu Onsen, the Yubatake, or Hot Water Field, stands as a captivating symbol of the town. Emitting over 5000 liters of hot spring water per minute, it ranks among Japan's most abundant sources. Here, hot water, rich with sulfur and reaching temperatures of over 70 degrees Celsius, flows into wooden conduits, cooling slightly before nourishing the town's baths and ryokan. Visitors flock to witness this natural marvel, often adorned in yukata and geta, especially during evening illuminations. Additionally, the area offers a free foot bath (ashiyu), adding to the immersive experience of this cultural and geological treasure.

11:20 AM

Yubatake Silverback Beef Lunch & Onsen Egg

Indulge in a culinary delight at Yubatake Silverback restaurant, offering a sumptuous beef lunch complemented by the silky perfection of an onsen egg. Enjoy a blend of flavors amidst the town's tranquil ambiance. Plus, delight in a complimentary manju and refreshing green tea, immersing yourself fully in Kusatsu's hospitality and charm.

12:00 PM

Sainokawara Park and Sainokwara Rotemburo

Nestled just beyond Kusatsu's bustling center, Sainokawara Park enchants visitors with its picturesque valley adorned with bubbling hot springs and tranquil ponds. Follow winding trails through lush landscapes, witnessing the natural spectacle of steaming pools and gentle streams. Don't miss the rejuvenating experience of the Sainokawara Rotemburo, boasting expansive outdoor baths where you can immerse yourself in the soothing warmth of the region's mineral-rich waters.

Please note, while towels are allowed for modesty, the onsen experience is typically enjoyed in the nude, in gender-separated facilities, except for Friday evenings when it becomes mixed-gender.

03:30 PM

Yumomi Experience in Kusatsu Onsen

Step into the Taisho era and witness the enchanting Yumomi show, a cherished tradition in Kusatsu Onsen. Experience the art of cooling natural hot spring water without compromising its essence, as practiced by locals for centuries. Immerse yourself in the nostalgic ambiance of Netsunoyu building near Yubatake, where daily performances transport you back in time, accompanied by traditional songs and dance. Engage with history as you witness this captivating display of cultural heritage.

04:00 PM

Kusatsu Gift and Souvenir Shops

Delight in a journey through Kusatsu's charming streets adorned with an array of gift and souvenir shops. Discover unique treasures capturing the essence of the town, from traditional crafts to locally sourced delicacies. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you explore these quaint establishments, each offering a glimpse into Kusatsu's rich culture and heritage. Find the perfect memento to cherish your unforgettable visit to this enchanting onsen town.

04:50 PM

Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal

We will meet at the bus terminal to catch the bus at 17:00. Then will go on a series of trains switching to the bullet train at Takasaki and back to Tokyo with an expected arrival time of 20:40.

08:40 PM

Tokyo JR Station

From Tokyo Station I can lead you back to your hotel.

Ending Point

Your Hotel

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

Tour Guiding

Interpreting

Hotel Pick Up/Drop within Tokyo 23wards

What‘s not included

Your transportation.

Your Admissions.

Your Lunch and Dinner.

Tour Important Information

Important message from the supplier

DO NOT CONTACT ME FOR DRIVING SERVICES.

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Important Information – Please Read Before Inquiring

Inquiries should be made with the intent to book a tour.

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1.Do not ask me about Mt. Fuji. The mountain is usually not visible, meaning you can not see it; if you don't understand what that means you need to google "Mt. Fuji visibility". You probably want to join a group bus tour which is not what I am offering.

2. Tours are rail based, full day tours are roughly 20,000 steps.

3. I do not make bookings on behalf of customers, the tours cover areas that not require advanced reservations.*

*I can take you to places you booked in advance or as a drop-off point to end as well.

4.I am no longer accommodating vegans/vegetarians for not following Japanese etiquette. When visiting a restaurant you must order 1 item per person, don't bring in your own food, non-meat options typically contain dashi (a fish based product) and substitutions are not an option.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time

Joined 2024

Grant A.

5.00 / 5

(86 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Grant A.

Hello! My name is Grant, and I’ve spent over a decade living and exploring Japan. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, I first came to Japan as a high school exchange student in Inuyama, a historic castle town in Aichi. My love for Japan began early—sparked by childhood games like Pokémon that were released in Japanese before English. That early curiosity grew into a lifelong passion for Japanese language, culture, and history.

I hold an N2 on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, a degree in Asian Studies from a Tokyo university, and I graduated from the Japan Visual Media Translation Academy. I’ve visited all 47 prefectures and explored a wide range of historical sites, shrines, and castles throughout the country. My background in Japanese history helps me provide context that brings depth and meaning to the places we visit—whether it's understanding a centuries-old temple in Kyoto, the story behind a castle ruin, or uncovering the historical layers of a Tokyo neighborhood.

If you’re planning to explore Tokyo, here are some tour options to consider:

One day in Tokyo? The Ginza Line Tour offers a great introduction to the city’s highlights.

Two days? Pair the East Tokyo Tour and West Tokyo Tour to get a well-rounded experience.

Interested in anime? The Anime Tour is flexible and can be tailored to match your specific interests.

For those looking to go beyond the city, I also offer day trips to Nikko, Kamakura, and other nearby destinations.

While most guests book Tokyo-based tours, I also guide in other regions—especially Kyoto, where I’ve visited every World Heritage Site. I regularly lead tours in Osaka, Nara, Nagoya, Hikone, and other locations easily reached by rail. Multi-day and custom tours are available on request.

Full-Day Tour: 40,000 yen (8 hours)

Full-Day Tour Outside of Tokyo: 40,000 yen + transportation

Feel free to get in touch to plan a tour that fits your interests and travel plans.

Reviews

Colin G.

5 / 5

Sep 9, 2025

Western Tokyo Tour: Shibuya and Shinjuku