From Nagano and Karuizawa: Unwind in Kusatsu Onsen

By Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.)

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Overview

Japan is a country of volcanoes and deep forests, with boiling pools of water bubbling up from the earth found scattered throughout the land. Since ancient times, Japanese people have put these natural resources to great use through utilising this naturally heated and mineral filled water to make baths designed to heal the body and relax the mind. This tradition is still ongoing, and there is nowhere better to observe it than Kusatsu. One of Japan’s most famous Onsen (hot springs) and consistently ranked the best Onsen in Eastern Japan for centuries, this town provides an amazing landscape centred around the Yubatake, a giant “field” of water coming from deep under the earth and from which the bath water for the local establishments is harvested. This tour will bring you through an amazing natural landscape of dried lava on Mount Asama before an afternoon of relaxation and great views in Kusatsu, the preferred getaway for all classes of Japanese going back centuries.

Activity location

Onioshidashi Volcanic Park
- 1053 Kambara
- 377-1524, Tsumagoi-mura, Gunma Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

Karuizawa Station
- Karuizawa
- 389-0102, Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

Check availability

Sorry this activity isn't available on Sun, 10 Nov

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What's included, what's not

Transport to all destinations included in the tour
English speaking guide
Entry to the Onioshidashi-en on Mount Asama
Guided tour at each location
Lunch
Accommodation

Know before you book

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transport options are available nearby
Specialised infant seats are available
Transport options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Walking time is already included in the tour duration

Activity itinerary

Onioshidashi Volcanic Park

1h
Admission ticket included

Enjoy the amazing scenery and stroll through the lava rocks. Formed by a volcanic eruption in the 1700’s, the landscape here feels nearly alien. Towering rocks formed from dry lava cover the mountainside, and pine trees and various bushes struggle to grow here and there in the harsh terrain. These elements together create what may be called a natural Japanese garden, its rock placement and stunted trees evoking thoughts of Zen Temples and Bonsai trees trimmed into unique shapes. John Lennon of the Beatles has even visited here before with his family, and is said to have taken great inspiration from Japanese culture. The views over the surrounding scenery are themselves nothing short of breathtaking – looking over the valley below, one sees only forests extending towards the far off mountains which surround the valley. Far from the hustle and bustle of human life, the sound of wind whistling through the rocks will be the only thing to greet your ears while enjoying this natural wonder.

Sai no Kawara Rotenburo

walk towards town through the Sai no Kawara Park. This small valley is equipped with well maintained walkways and a number of areas to soak your feet in the warm waters of its thermal river. As towels will not be provided on the tour it may be a good idea to bring your own, although in general your feet will air dry in no time at all once removed from the water.

Yubatake

1h 50m

Your guide will show you around and teach you a little about the history of the area, before equipping you with recommendations for good food and good day-use hot springs and sending you off to have some free time. We will provide enough time to eat lunch and try visiting a local hot spring, so if you are interested in doing so it is best to bring your own towel on the tour! For guests who may not be interested in entering a hot springs, there are still a number of eateries and interesting sites around to occupy your time.

Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane

1h 30m

Going up Mount Shirane, the still active volcano bordering Kusatsu, you will see the landscape transform as the trees thin out and strange volcanic rocks and steaming pits come to dominate the landscape. This road is one of Japan’s most famous for its scenery, and you will no doubt agree after seeing it yourself. At the top, the bus will stop at a scenic look out point and your guide will give you some time to take in the scenery and enjoy the area. There may even still be some snow around to see late into May! As this is the top of a tall mountain, expect cold weather even in warmer months and the possibility for quick changes in the temperature.

Location

Activity location

Onioshidashi Volcanic Park
- 1053 Kambara
- 377-1524, Tsumagoi-mura, Gunma Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

Karuizawa Station
- Karuizawa
- 389-0102, Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan
Nagano Station
- Kurita
- 380-0921, Nagano, Nagano, Japan

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