1. What are the top local specialties in Kusatsu Onsen that travelers should try?
The top local specialties in Kusatsu Onsen that travelers should try include:
1. Onsen eggs: Soft-boiled eggs cooked in the geothermal waters of Kusatsu Onsen.
2. Yubatake manju: A sweet bun filled with red bean paste and shaped like a hot spring steaming from the “yubatake” (hot water fields).
3. Shingen mochi: A sweet, soft rice cake topped with kinako powder and roasted soy flour.
4. Yosenabe: A hot pot dish consisting of various vegetables and meats cooked in a dashi broth.
5. Jabu-jabu: Local beef and vegetable stir-fry cooked on a tabletop grill.
6. Katsumushi: Grilled mushrooms seasoned with salt and served as a traditional side dish.
7. Sake: Kusatsu is known for producing high-quality sake, so be sure to try some locally brewed varieties.
8. Okiagari-koboshi pudding: A creamy pudding dessert shaped like the traditional Japanese toy that always returns to its upright position when knocked over.
9. Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake made with cabbage, meat or seafood, eggs, and topped with various sauces and toppings.
10. Sansai soba/udon: Noodles made with wild mountain vegetables and served in a hot broth.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly dining options in Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there are several options for vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining in Kusatsu Onsen. Some recommended restaurants include:1. Cafe Amanite: This charming café offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including natural and organic ingredients. They also have gluten-free and dairy-free options available.
2. Tofu Nakano: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in tofu dishes which are often suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
3. Hontanron: This traditional Japanese restaurant offers vegetarian-friendly dishes like vegetable tempura and tofu stew.
4. Lavender House: This cozy café serves a variety of organic and vegetarian dishes, with some vegan options available as well.
5. Shidaikan Honkan: This restaurant serves shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), which is traditionally vegan.
It’s always best to inform the staff beforehand about your dietary restrictions to ensure that they can accommodate your needs.
3. Where can one find traditional Japanese breakfast dishes in Kusatsu Onsen?
Traditional Japanese breakfast dishes can be found at most ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels in Kusatsu Onsen. Many ryokans and hotels offer a complimentary breakfast for guests, which typically includes traditional Japanese dishes such as steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish, pickled vegetables, and tamagoyaki (grilled egg omelette). Some popular places to find traditional Japanese breakfast dishes are Yubatake Sokichi Honten, Ryokan Kizaki, and Hotel Sakurai. There are also some local restaurants that specialize in traditional Japanese breakfast, so it is worth asking around or doing some research beforehand.
4. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in the area?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in the area. The closest one is probably The Inn at Little Washington, located about 33 miles away in Virginia and has three stars. Other notable Michelin-starred restaurants in the area include Minibar by José Andrés and Pineapple and Pearls, both located in Washington D.C. and have two stars each. There are also several one-star Michelin restaurants within a 50-mile radius, such as Komi, Sushi Taro, and Masseria in Washington D.C., L’Auberge Chez François in Great Falls, VA, and Volt in Frederick, MD.
5. Is it common for restaurants to have English menus available for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, it is common for restaurants in major cities and tourist areas to have English menus available for non-Japanese speakers. However, smaller and more traditional restaurants may only have menus in Japanese. If you are unsure, it’s always best to ask the staff if an English menu is available before ordering.
6. What is the best time of year to visit Kusatsu Onsen for the freshest local food?
The best time of year to visit Kusatsu Onsen for the freshest local food is during the winter months, from December to February. This is when many fruits and vegetables are in season, and local dishes like yuba (tofu skin) and soba noodles are at their peak freshness. Additionally, this time of year is known for its hot pot dishes, which use locally sourced meats and vegetables for a hearty and delicious meal.
7. Are there any farmers markets or food festivals held in Kusatsu Onsen throughout the year?
Yes, there are several farmers markets and food festivals held in Kusatsu Onsen throughout the year. Here are some examples:1. Kusatsu Gourmet Market – This is a monthly market held on the 4th Sunday of each month from April to October. It features local produce, gourmet food, handmade crafts, and live entertainment.
2. Kusatsu Farmers Market – This market is held every Thursday from April to November and offers a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, seafood, and other local products.
3. Osen Matsuri (Hot Spring Festival) – Held annually in August, this festival celebrates the town’s famous hot springs with various events including food stalls serving local specialties and traditional dance performances.
4. Tastes of Kusatsu – This event is usually held in October and features a variety of dishes made using local ingredients from Kusatsu Onsen.
5. Hoshinoyu Yamahonjin Food Festival – This festival takes place in November and features food stalls offering a range of Japanese street food as well as handicrafts, arts and cultural performances.
6. Snowman Trick Art Festival – Held annually in February, this unique winter festival features snow sculptures, trick art displays, winter sports activities and plenty of delicious food options.
7. Soba (buckwheat noodles) Making Experience – This activity is available throughout the year at various soba restaurants in Kusatsu Onsen where visitors can learn how to make and enjoy their own soba noodles using locally produced buckwheat flour.
8. Is it possible to find budget-friendly meal options in Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, it is definitely possible to find budget-friendly meal options in Kusatsu Onsen. Here are some tips:
1. Look for local and traditional restaurants: These are often more affordable than touristy restaurants in popular areas.
2. Explore the side streets: Venture off the main tourist areas and you may find smaller family-run restaurants with lower prices.
3. Check out lunch specials: Many restaurants offer discounted lunch menus, making it a great time to try out new dishes at a lower cost.
4. Opt for set meals: Set meals, or “teishoku,” are reasonably priced and often include various dishes such as rice, soup, and a main dish.
5. Visit convenience stores or supermarkets: You can pick up affordable bento boxes or snacks from convenience stores or fresh produce from local markets to save on meal costs.
6. Consider staying at a ryokan with half-board included: Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that often offer accommodations with meals included, which can be more cost-effective than eating out every day.
7. Take advantage of free breakfast at your accommodation: Many hotels and ryokans include breakfast with their room rates, so make sure to take advantage of that.
8. Ask locals for recommendations: Locals can provide insider tips on where to find affordable and delicious meals in the area.
Remember to also look out for seasonal/local specialties, as they tend to be more affordable and fresh during their peak seasons.
9. Are there any popular street food vendors or stalls around Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, here are some popular street food vendors and stalls in Kusatsu Onsen:
1. Yubatake Tamago – this stall sells freshly boiled eggs from the hot spring water of Yubatake, topped with a variety of flavored salts.
2. Karukan – a traditional Japanese sweet made with red bean paste and rice flour, steamed in bamboo leaves.
3. Onsen Manju – a type of steamed bun filled with sweet red bean paste, also cooked using the hot spring water.
4. Takoyaki – a popular street food in Japan consisting of small balls of batter filled with diced octopus, topped with sauce, mayo, and dried bonito flakes.
5. Yakitori – grilled chicken skewers served with various sauces and seasonings.
6. Kakigori – shaved ice dessert topped with flavored syrups and condensed milk.
7. Taiyaki – fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste or custard cream.
8. Dorayaki – a pancake-like dessert sandwiched with sweet filling such as azuki beans or custard cream.
9. Okonomiyaki – savory pancakes made with batter, shredded cabbage, meat or seafood, and various toppings like sauce and mayo.
10. Ramen stalls – there are several ramen stalls around Kusatsu Onsen offering different types of delicious noodle dishes.
10. Can you recommend any restaurants with a view of the hot springs or beautiful surroundings in Kusatsu Onsen?
Sure, here are a few options:
1. Kotobusuya Ryokan: A traditional Japanese inn with an open-air bath and a restaurant that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
2. Bettei Senjuan: This upscale ryokan has a stunning rooftop onsen with panoramic views of the hot springs and the mountains. The attached restaurant serves kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals featuring local produce.
3. Hotel Sakurai: This modern hotel has an observation deck on the top floor where you can enjoy views of the hot springs while dining at their restaurant.
4. Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Village: This hotel complex has several restaurants, including a buffet-style one on the top floor of one of its buildings, providing scenic views of Mt. Shirane and the town below.
5. Tsurutaya Ryokan: Located along the banks of Sainokawara Park, this ryokan features a private open-air bath with views of the park’s lush greenery and natural hot spring source. They also have a restaurant that serves seasonal dishes.
6. Yubatake Plaza Midoriya: This popular spot is not just a collection of souvenir shops but also houses several restaurants with outdoor seating areas overlooking Yubatake, Kusatsu’s iconic “hot water field”.
7. Kane Midori: This cozy izakaya (Japanese-style pub) serves delicious Japanese comfort food and sake while offering unobstructed views of Yubatake and Mt. Shirane in the background.
8. Kurhaus Ishibashi: This Western-style restaurant in a historic building boasts an outdoor terrace with sweeping views of Kusatsu’s downtown area.
9. Takamizawa Shouten Cafe & Bar Sky Garden: Offering both indoor seating and an open-air terrace with breathtaking mountain views, this Scandinavian-style cafe serves light bites, desserts, cocktails, and coffee.
10. Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel: This large hotel complex has an observation deck with a stunning view of the hot springs and the town. The attached restaurant serves buffet-style meals featuring local ingredients.
11. Are there any unique fusion cuisine restaurants that blend local and international flavors in Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there are a few unique fusion cuisine restaurants in Kusatsu Onsen that blend local and international flavors. Some popular options include:
1. Okakita: This restaurant specializes in fusion dishes made with traditional Japanese ingredients and techniques combined with international flavors.
2. Tapahachi: This restaurant offers a wide variety of fusion dishes, blending Japanese and Western cuisine together.
3. Blau Yume: This is a stylish restaurant that blends Asian and Western cuisines, using fresh local ingredients to create unique dishes.
4. Toriya Fusion Dining: Here, you can enjoy fusion dishes that combine traditional Japanese ingredients with French cooking techniques.
5. Bistro Shinya: This intimate bistro serves up creative fusion dishes with a focus on using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
6. Yamadaya Fusen: This restaurant offers fusion dishes fusing Japanese and French cooking styles together.
7. Café Aniki: Known for its creative dessert menu, this café also serves up delicious fusion dishes combining local flavors with international influences.
8. Matsudaiya Cuisine Nobesawa: Using the bounty of local Hokaido ingredients, this restaurant creates unique fusion dishes inspired by French, Italian, and Japanese cuisines.
9. Ristorante Casa d’ Incanto Shuzuiro: Offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu made with locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant is known for its delicious Italian-Japanese fusion meals.
10. Fleur-de-lis Ateliere Pignon: Combining local Niigata flavors with French cooking techniques, this restaurant creates one-of-a-kind fusion cuisine in a beautiful setting.
11. Yahachi Hiroki Ueda Kitchencraft Restaurant & Lounge Bar: This upscale restaurant combines traditional Japanese ingredients with modern European cooking methods to create elegant and innovative fusion dishes.
12. How does the dining experience differ between traditional ryokans (inns) and modern restaurants in Kusatsu Onsen?
The dining experience at traditional ryokans in Kusatsu Onsen is typically more formal and focused on traditional Japanese cuisine. Meals are often served in a communal dining room, and guests may be expected to dress in yukata (casual kimono) attire. The food itself may include seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and dishes that are specific to the region.On the other hand, modern restaurants in Kusatsu Onsen may offer a wider variety of cuisines, including Western options such as pizza and pasta. The atmosphere is usually more casual and guests can choose from a menu rather than being served a set course meal. Additionally, there may be a larger focus on individual dining rather than the communal aspect found in traditional ryokans.
13. Where can one find fresh seafood in Kusatsu Onsen, and which dishes are must-tries?
Fresh seafood can be found at Kusatsu Onsen’s local restaurants and seafood markets. Some must-try dishes include grilled shellfish, sashimi (raw fish), tempura, and donburi (rice bowl dish) with various seafood toppings such as squid, fish roe, and shrimp.
14. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, it is customary to leave a small tip of around 5-10% at restaurants in Kusatsu Onsen. However, some restaurants may already include a service charge in the bill, so it’s best to check before leaving an additional tip. Additionally, tipping is not expected but appreciated at smaller local establishments.
15. Are reservations recommended for popular restaurants, or can one walk-in and expect to be seated?
It is generally recommended to make reservations for popular restaurants, especially during peak dining hours or on weekends. This helps ensure that you will have a table when you arrive. However, some restaurants may accept walk-ins depending on availability. It is best to check with the restaurant beforehand or be prepared to potentially wait for a table.
16. Can you recommend any local cafes or coffee shops that serve freshly roasted coffee beans grown in Japan?
1. Café de L’Ambre (Tokyo)
2. Glitch Coffee & Roasters (Tokyo)
3. Weekenders Coffee and Books (Tokyo)
4. Shibuya Stream Beans (Tokyo)
5. Ogawa Coffee (Kyoto)
6. Arabica Coffee (Kyoto)
7. Tokiwa Shokai Kobo Cafe & Roaster’s Lab (Fukuoka)
8. Sarutahiko Coffee (Tokyo, Sendai, Okinawa, Hiroshima)
9. Turret Coffee (Sapporo)
10. Roastery Laboratory & Cafe Miyukinosato (Nagano)
17. Is it possible to take cooking classes or food tours focused on local ingredients while visiting Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there are a few options for cooking classes and food tours focused on local ingredients while visiting Kusatsu Onsen. Here are some examples:
1. Cooking class at Yubatake Ajiwai Yokocho: This cooking class is held in a traditional Japanese restaurant located next to the famous Yubatake hot spring. Participants can learn how to make dishes using local ingredients such as yams, buckwheat noodles, and wild plants. The class also includes a visit to the nearby Kusatsu Market where you can see and buy local products.
2. Food tour with Kusatsu Onsen Guide: This guided food tour takes you around the town of Kusatsu Onsen, showcasing its unique local foods and drinks. You will visit local shops and markets to discover the ingredients used in traditional dishes, taste different types of sake, and try various snacks like manju (steamed buns) and senbei (rice crackers).
3. Traditional cuisine cooking experience at Masuya Ryokan: Masuya Ryokan offers traditional Japanese cuisine cooking experiences for its guests. You can join a hands-on workshop to learn how to make dishes like sukiyaki or shabu-shabu using fresh locally sourced ingredients.
4. Hands-on soba noodle making at Maruka Soba: At Maruka Soba, a popular soba noodle restaurant in Kusatsu, you can take part in a soba-making experience under the guidance of an instructor. Participants will learn how to make their own noodles from scratch using locally grown buckwheat flour and enjoy eating their creations afterwards.
These are just some examples of the cooking classes and food tours available in Kusatsu Onsen. There may be other options available depending on your specific interests and budget. It’s best to research beforehand or ask your hotel/guesthouse for recommendations during your stay.
18. Do public hot springs also offer dining options on site, such as traditional bento box lunches?
It depends on the specific hot spring and its surrounding amenities. Some public hot springs may have restaurants or food stands on site that offer traditional bento box lunches, while others may not. It is always best to research and inquire about dining options at a specific hot spring before visiting.
19. How does restaurant etiquette differ between Japan and other countries, and what are some customs to be aware of while dining in Kusatsu Onsen?
Restaurant etiquette in Japan, including Kusatsu Onsen, may differ from other countries in several ways. Here are some customs to be aware of:
1. Greeting:
In Japan, it is customary to greet the restaurant staff and fellow diners with a polite bow and a greeting such as “irasshaimase” (welcome) or “arigato gozaimasu” (thank you). It is considered impolite to enter a restaurant without acknowledging the staff.
2. Ordering:
Unlike many Western countries, it is not common for customers to make special requests or customize their dishes in Japan. Most restaurants have set menus or specialized items that should be ordered as described.
3. Seating:
In Japan, it is common for guests to remove their shoes before entering a tatami room or traditional Japanese-style seating area. Many restaurants will provide slippers for guests to wear while dining.
4. Chopstick Etiquette:
If chopsticks are provided at the table, do not rub them together- this can be seen as an insult to the quality of the chopsticks. When not using them, place them on top of your plate rather than sticking them vertically into your food.
5. Eating:
It is polite to wait until everyone at the table has been served before beginning your meal. Slurping noodles loudly and drinking soup directly from the bowl is also acceptable in Japanese culture.
6. Payment:
In most cases, customers pay for their meals at a register located near the exit of the restaurant rather than at their table. Some restaurants may have you pay at your table, so it is best to observe what others are doing and follow suit.
7. Tipping:
Tipping is not expected in Japan; however, some higher-end restaurants may add a service charge onto the bill.
8. Saying “Thank You”:
After finishing your meal, it is customary to say “gochisosama deshita” (thank you for the meal) to express gratitude to the staff and restaurant.
Overall, diners should aim to be polite, patient and respectful of local customs while dining in Kusatsu Onsen.
20. Can you recommend any unique or lesser-known local dishes or ingredients that travelers should try when visiting Kusatsu Onsen?
One unique dish to try in Kusatsu Onsen is Yubatake Tamago, which translates to “hot water field eggs.” These are eggs that are boiled in the hot spring waters of Kusatsu and have a distinct flavor and texture. Another lesser-known ingredient to sample is akamaki, a type of local buckwheat noodle that is famous for its rich and nutty flavor. It is often served with a savory broth made with soy sauce, dashi, and other seasonings. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try Oya-mochi, a traditional dessert made of mochi (sticky rice cake) wrapped around red bean paste and steamed in bamboo leaves. It has a deliciously chewy texture and is often enjoyed during festivals or as a special treat at ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).