1. What are the top historical landmarks to visit in Kusatsu Onsen?
Some of the top historical landmarks to visit in Kusatsu Onsen include:1. Yubatake: This is the main landmark of Kusatsu Onsen and is a large, open-air hot spring source that has been around for over 1,200 years.
2. Netsunoyu Bathhouse: This old bathhouse was built in 1683 and has a beautiful traditional Japanese design. It still operates as a public bath today.
3. Otaki Shrine: This shrine is believed to have been established over 2200 years ago and is a popular spot for visitors to pray for good health.
4. Ohtakinoyu Bathhouse: This bathhouse was first opened in 1667 and is famous for its therapeutic waters that are said to cure various ailments.
5. Shirane Mountain Range: The mountains surrounding Kusatsu Onsen have a rich history and are known for being sacred sites in Japanese mythology.
6. Nishiki River Gorge: This gorge has been designated as a National Natural Monument and is home to several historical temples and shrines.
7. Takaragawa Onsen: Located about an hour from Kusatsu Onsen, this hot spring resort has been around since the Edo Period (1603-1868) and offers stunning views of the surrounding nature.
8. Mt. Kinkazan Observation Deck: From this observation deck, you can see panoramic views of Kusatsu Onsen and its famous Yubatake hot spring source.
9. Sun Valley Ski Area: Although not necessarily a historical landmark, this ski area was built in the late 1930s and played a significant role in developing tourism in Kusatsu Onsen.
10. Harunayama Fudoson Temple: Built more than 1300 years ago, this temple features towering cedar trees, beautiful gardens, and impressive Buddhist statues carved into stone.
2. How significant is the history of Kusatsu Onsen in Japan’s overall cultural landscape?
Kusatsu Onsen has a long and significant history in Japan’s cultural landscape. It is considered one of Japan’s most famous and historic hot spring resorts, dating back over 1,300 years to the Nara period (710-794). The hot springs have been known for their healing properties since ancient times and were an important part of traditional Japanese medicine.
Throughout its history, Kusatsu Onsen has attracted many prominent figures, including shoguns, emperors, and samurai. Its popularity continued to grow during the Edo period (1603-1867) when it became a popular destination for travelers on pilgrimage routes. Many poets, artists, and writers were also drawn to Kusatsu Onsen for inspiration.
During the Meiji period (1868-1912), Kusatsu Onsen underwent significant development with the construction of modern facilities such as hotels and public baths. This further increased its popularity among tourists, both domestic and international.
In addition to its role as a popular leisure destination, Kusatsu Onsen also plays an important role in traditional Japanese culture. The onsen ritual is deeply ingrained in Japanese society and is seen as a way to purify the body and mind. Many traditional festivals and events are also held at Kusatsu Onsen throughout the year, showcasing its cultural significance.
Overall, Kusatsu Onsen has played a crucial role in shaping Japan’s cultural landscape by preserving ancient traditions and attracting visitors from all over the world. Its rich history continues to be celebrated and cherished by locals and visitors alike.
3. Can you recommend any walking or guided tours that focus on the historical aspects of Kusatsu Onsen?
There are a few walking and guided tours that focus on the historical aspects of Kusatsu Onsen. Here are some recommendations:1. Kusatsu Onsen Historical Walking Tour: This guided tour takes you on a walking tour through the historic streets of Kusatsu Onsen, where you will learn about the town’s history, culture, and hot spring traditions. The tour also includes visits to some of the town’s iconic attractions such as Yubatake (hot water field) and Netsunoyu public bath.
2. Private Guided Tour of Kusatsu Onsen: This private tour allows you to customize your own itinerary to focus on the historical sites and attractions that interest you most in Kusatsu Onsen. Your guide will provide informative commentary on the town’s history and culture as you explore.
3. Mt. Shirane Guided Hike: If you’re interested in combining a scenic hike with learning about Kusatsu Onsen’s history, this guided hike up Mt. Shirane is perfect for you. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the mountain’s geological significance and its role in shaping Kusatsu Onsen.
4. Vintage Train & Walking Tour from Tokyo: For a unique experience, consider taking this guided tour that starts with a nostalgic train ride from Tokyo to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station, followed by a walking tour of Kusatsu Onsen’s historical sites led by a local guide.
5. Kumobaike Walking Tour & Traditional Craft Experience: This tour combines a leisurely walk around Kumobaike Pond with a visit to a traditional craft shop where you can try your hand at making local crafts such as pottery or woodwork while learning about their cultural significance in Kusatsu Onsen.
Overall, there are many options for walking and guided tours that focus on the historical aspects of Kusatsu Onsen. Be sure to do some research and choose one that fits your interests and budget.
4. Are there any ancient temples or shrines to explore in Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there are several historical temples and shrines in Kusatsu Onsen that travelers can visit and explore.One example is the Yubatake Shrine, which is dedicated to the god of hot springs. It is located near the main source of hot spring water in Kusatsu and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to pray and relax.
Another notable temple is the Gensenji Temple, also known as the “Jikokuden Temple.” This temple houses a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddhist deity of healing and medicine. It is believed that bathing in the nearby hot springs can heal ailments and illnesses.
Additionally, there are several smaller shrines scattered throughout Kusatsu Onsen, such as the Shirane Shrine and Haruna Shrine. These shrines offer a glimpse into Shinto rituals and traditions, along with beautiful natural surroundings.
Visiting these temples and shrines can provide a deeper cultural understanding of Kusatsu Onsen’s history and traditions.
5. What is the story behind the iconic Yubatake hot springs source in Kusatsu Onsen?
The Yubatake hot springs source has a long history in Kusatsu Onsen and is considered to be the most famous and iconic of all the hot springs in the town.
According to legend, back in the 12th century, during a hunting trip, a nobleman named Yumomi Daihachi came across an injured eagle near a small lake at the base of Mt. Shibukawa. Being a kind-hearted man, he took care of the injured bird and after nursing it back to health, he was rewarded with good luck for his kindness.
As a way to show his gratitude, every time he passed by this lake on his travels, he would offer prayers and make offerings to the gods who had blessed him with good fortune. Over time, people started coming to this area hoping for blessings from the gods as well. It soon became known as “Yubatake” which means “hot water field”. The name comes from how steam used to rise up from the surface of the water making it look like fields of white flowers.
People began bathing in these hot springs and quickly discovered their healing properties. The mineral-rich water was said to cure various ailments such as rheumatism and skin diseases. With its popularity growing, Yubatake became known as the most powerful hot spring source in Kusatsu Onsen.
In 1863, during Japan’s Edo period, Yubatake was recognized by the government as one of three “Utaki” or spiritually important places in Japan which further solidified its status as an important hot spring site.
Today, Yubatake remains a popular attraction in Kusatsu Onsen with its picturesque setting and unique appearance. As for visitors seeking its healing powers, they can still find it in various onsens throughout town that use water directly from this famed hot spring source.
6. How has Kusatsu Onsen evolved over time from its origins as a hot spring village?
Kusatsu Onsen has evolved significantly over time from its origins as a small hot spring village. Here are some of the changes and developments that have taken place:
1. Growth in Tourism: Kusatsu Onsen’s main source of income was once agriculture and forestry, but with the development of tourism, it has become a popular resort destination. In recent years, the number of tourists visiting Kusatsu Onsen has increased dramatically.
2. Introduction of Modern Amenities: With the growth in tourism, modern amenities such as hotels, shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities have been introduced to accommodate visitors.
3. Improvement of Infrastructure: The local government has invested in improving the infrastructure in Kusatsu Onsen to make it easier for visitors to access the area. This includes building new roads and expanding public transportation services.
4. Diversification of Hot Spring Experiences: Initially, Kusatsu Onsen only had a few traditional communal baths known as “sotoyu”, and private baths called “kashikiri”. However, with more tourists looking for unique experiences, there has been an increase in various types of baths including footbaths, sand baths, and even beer baths.
5. Introduction of Medical Tourism: Kusatsu Onsen is known for its healing properties due to the high concentration of minerals in its hot springs. In recent years, there has been an increase in medical tourism with many visitors seeking relief from ailments by soaking in the hot springs or using other traditional healing methods offered by local establishments.
6. Promotion through Events and Festivals: To attract more visitors and promote their cultural heritage, Kus
7. Are there any preserved buildings or structures that offer insight into traditional Japanese architecture and design in Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there are several preserved buildings and structures in Kusatsu Onsen that offer insight into traditional Japanese architecture and design:
1. Netsunoyu Bathhouse: Built in 1863, this is one of the oldest bathhouses in Kusatsu Onsen and features a classic wooden structure.
2. Yubatake: This is the main attraction of Kusatsu Onsen and consists of a large open-air hot spring surrounded by traditional buildings that house various facilities such as shops, restaurants, and a stage for performances.
3. Sai no Kawara Park: This park is known for its picturesque footbaths, which are housed in traditional wooden buildings with thatched roofs.
4. Shirahone Shrine: This ancient Shinto shrine dates back to the 10th century and has a beautiful wooden gate (torii) and main hall (honden) that showcase traditional Japanese architecture.
5. Ozekiyu Bathhouse: This bathhouse was built in 1927 and still retains its original architecture, providing visitors with a glimpse into bathing culture during the early 20th century.
6. Maruyama Park: Located near Yubatake, this park features several traditional tea houses (chashitsu) where visitors can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
7. Ohtaki Village Museum: Housed in a traditional building with a thatched roof, this museum showcases artifacts related to Kusatsu Onsen’s history and culture.
8. Is it possible to visit any historical homes or residences of notable figures from Kusatsu Onsen’s past?
There are a few historical homes and residences in Kusatsu Onsen that can be visited, including:1. Yubatake Mukoujima Residence – This traditional wooden house was built in the early 1900s and belonged to the Mukoujima family, who were one of the most influential families in the development of Kusatsu Onsen.
2. Yumoto Sekikawa Residence – This historic wooden house was built around 1800 and used to be a popular rest stop for travelers on the Nakasendo Road.
3. Kawata Kinmyo Residence – This house is one of the oldest buildings in Kusatsu Onsen, dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). It was once owned by a wealthy farmer and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property.
4. Winter Village Museum – Located about a 20-minute drive from Kusatsu Onsen, this museum showcases traditional farmhouses and houses from different eras in Japanese history.
It is also worth visiting the Kosenji Temple, which houses many artifacts and objects related to Kusatsu Onsen’s history and development.
9. What role did Kusatsu Onsen play during WWII and how was it affected by the war?
Kusatsu Onsen played a significant role during WWII as it was utilized by the Japanese military as a rest and rehabilitation facility for injured soldiers. The hot springs were believed to have therapeutic and healing properties that could help wounded soldiers recover.
During the war, Kusatsu Onsen also served as a hiding place for government officials and military leaders, such as Prime Minister General Tojo Hideki, who sought refuge from bombings in major cities.
However, like many other areas of Japan, Kusatsu Onsen was also greatly affected by the war. The influx of wounded soldiers put a strain on the resources of the small town, and local businesses suffered due to economic hardships caused by the war.
Moreover, in July 1945, Kusatsu Onsen was bombed by American B-29 planes as part of a wider attack on Japan’s industrial areas. This resulted in extensive damage to the town’s infrastructure and buildings, including some traditional ryokans (Japanese-style inns) that were popular among tourists.
After the war ended, Kusatsu Onsen gradually recovered and regained its popularity as a top hot spring destination in Japan. Today, it is known for its beautiful natural scenery and high-quality hot spring water that continues to attract tourists from all over the world.
10. How have modern developments and tourism impacted the historical charm of Kusatsu Onsen?
The modern developments and the increase in tourism have certainly impacted the historical charm of Kusatsu Onsen. While the town still retains its traditional atmosphere and aesthetic, there have been changes to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
One significant impact is the modernization of the hot springs themselves. In the past, each hot spring had its own designated area where visitors could bathe. Today, many of these areas have been rebuilt and combined into larger, more modern bathing facilities that can cater to larger numbers of people at once. This has made it easier for tourists to access the hot springs, but some argue that it also takes away from the authentic and quaint experience.
Additionally, with an increase in tourism, there has been a rise in commercialization. Many businesses have opened up around Kusatsu Onsen to cater to tourists, such as souvenir shops, restaurants, and accommodations. While this has brought more conveniences for visitors, it has also led to a loss in some of the historical charm of the town.
There have also been infrastructure developments in Kusatsu Onsen to improve transportation and accessibility for tourists. Roads have been widened and public transport options expanded, making it easier for visitors to travel to and around the town. While this has improved convenience for tourists, it has also altered the landscape of this once secluded onsen town.
Finally, as tourism continues to grow in Kusatsu Onsen, there has been pressure on local authorities to adapt and cater to international visitors. This has led to more English signage and services being offered in order to make it easier for non-Japanese speakers to navigate and enjoy their visit. While this is beneficial for tourists, it may detract from some of the cultural immersion that comes with visiting a traditional onsen town.
Overall, while modern developments and tourism have certainly brought many benefits and opportunities for growth in Kusatsu Onsen, they have also caused changes that may impact the historical charm and authenticity of the town. It is important for the town to find a balance between preserving its traditional roots and adapting to the needs and demands of modern travelers.
11. Is there an informative museum or exhibition dedicated to the history of Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there is a museum and exhibition center dedicated to the history of Kusatsu Onsen. The Kusatsu Onsen Museum features exhibits on the geology and hot spring sources of the area, as well as the culture and traditions surrounding the onsen. There are also displays showcasing traditional wooden bathhouses, historical artifacts, and information about the development of Kusatsu Onsen as a popular hot spring destination. Admission to the museum is 300 yen for adults, and it is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily.
12. Can you recommend any lesser-known historical landmarks or hidden gems in and around Kusatsu Onsen?
1. Yubatake: A historical hot water field where water from the hot springs is gathered and cooled for bathing.
2. Kosenji Temple: A small, charming temple with a beautiful garden and hidden statues to discover.
3. Nakamuratoge Pass: A scenic hiking trail with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and hot springs.
4. Ojikayama Park: A peaceful park with walking paths, a small pond, and a view of Mt. Asahidake.
5. Harunako Onsen Seibu Sozokan: A traditional ryokan with an outdoor hot spring bath that overlooks the town of Kusatsu.
6. Handmade Craft Sake Brewery Workshop: Learn about the process of making sake and try your hand at creating your own blended sake.
7. Lake Biwa Castle Ruins: The remains of an ancient castle located on the shores of Lake Biwa, believed to be over 500 years old.
8. Yumomi Hall: This traditional performance hall showcases a unique method of cooling down the hot spring water using wooden paddles.
9. Nishiya Senninburo Outdoor Bathhouse: An outdoor bathhouse dating back to 1904, featuring natural mineral-rich waters and antique bathtubs made from cedar wood.
10. Otaki Otara Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located along a hiking trail in the nearby mountains.
11. Kusatsu Museum of Art Outdoor Sculpture Garden: An outdoor art gallery featuring contemporary sculptures set against a backdrop of lush greenery and a panoramic view of Mt. Shirane.
12.Seiko-no-oka Observatory Deck: An observation deck offering sweeping views over Kusatsu Onsen and the surrounding area, especially stunning during sunset or at night.
13. How long does it take to fully explore all of the major historical sights in Kusatsu Onsen?
It takes approximately 1-2 days to fully explore all of the major historical sights in Kusatsu Onsen. This may vary depending on the individual’s pace and level of interest in each site. Some people may prefer to spend more time at certain locations, while others may only visit a few key spots.
14. Are there any festivals or events that celebrate the history and culture of Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there are several festivals and events that celebrate the history and culture of Kusatsu Onsen:
1. Yumomi Festival – Held in February, this festival features a traditional ceremony called “yumomi” where hot spring water is stirred using wooden boards to cool down the temperature for bathing.
2. Netsu no Yamaichi Market – This annual market takes place on New Year’s Day and offers local products, including food and crafts, to celebrate the start of the new year.
3. Kusatsu Onsen Kurayashiki Matsuri – Also known as the “Festival of Old Inns,” this event celebrates the traditional inns and their history in Kusatsu Onsen. It takes place in August and features performances, parades, and local dishes.
4. Kusatsu Summer Festival – Held in July, this festival showcases various traditional Japanese performing arts such as taiko drumming, dancing, and more.
5. Autumn Leaves Festival – Taking place during peak fall foliage season in late October to early November, this festival celebrates the seasonal beauty of Kusatsu Onsen with food stalls, art exhibitions, and live performances.
6. HEAT! THE CIRCLE Music & Art Culture Festival – Started in 2017, this festival promotes art and culture while also highlighting the healing properties of Kusatsu Onsen’s hot springs. It usually takes place in June or July.
15. How do locals view and value the historical landmarks and traditions in their community’s heritage sites around Kusatsu Onsen?
The locals in Kusatsu Onsen highly value and take pride in the historical landmarks and traditions in their community’s heritage sites. These sites are seen as a connection to their past and a representation of their cultural identity.
In addition, the hot springs themselves are considered sacred and integral to the town’s history and lifestyle. Locals often view the preservation of these natural resources as crucial for maintaining the authenticity and uniqueness of their community.
Traditional events and festivals, such as the Yumomi performance, are enthusiastically celebrated by locals and are seen as important ways to honor their cultural heritage while also attracting tourists to the area.
Overall, residents of Kusatsu Onsen have a deep appreciation for their community’s historical landmarks and traditions, recognizing them as invaluable assets that contribute to the beauty and character of their town.
16. What stories, myths, or legends are associated with certain historical landmarks in Kusatsu Onsen?
1. The Legend of Kusatsu Yubatake: According to this legend, a long time ago, the hot spring waters in Kusatsu Onsen were not as hot as they are today. One day, a goddess passing through the area took pity on the villagers who were suffering from the cold and used her magical powers to heat up the water, creating the famous Yubatake (hot water field) which later became the symbol of Kusatsu Onsen.
2. Jizo statues at Ohtaki Shrine: At Ohtaki Shrine, there is a row of small jizo statues that are believed to be guardian deities of children. It is said that parents would pray for their children’s health and well-being by pouring hot spring water over these statues.
3. The Demon’s Footprint: Near Yumomi Hall (a traditional method of cooling down hot spring water), there is a large stone with an imprint that resembles a foot. According to legend, this is where a demon used to bathe in the hot spring waters but was scared away by the sound of village women washing laundry in the nearby Asahi River.
4. The Three-Legged Crow at Mt. Shirane: Mt. Shirane is known for its breathtaking views and also for being home to a three-legged crow, which many believe to be an auspicious symbol representing longevity and prosperity.
5. The Origin of Onsen at Yugama Crater Lake: It is believed that Yugama Crater Lake, located at the top of Mt. Shirane, was created when the god Konohanasakuyahime (goddess of volcanoes and hot springs) stepped on it while descending from heaven to marry Ninigi-no-mikoto (one of Japan’s mythological founders).
6. The Giant Stone Hot Pot at Sainokawara Park: There is a large stone hot pot in the Sainokawara Park that is said to have been used by the Buddhist saint, Kobo Daishi, to heal his disciple’s illnesses with hot spring water.
7. The Legend of Benten Rock: At the center of town, there is a large rock called Benten Rock, named after Benzaiten (goddess of wealth and long life). According to legend, she appeared here in response to a villager’s prayer for help during a time of famine and provided him with food and supplies.
8. The Tale of Ougon-no-taki Golden Waterfall: Ougon-no-taki (Golden Waterfall) gets its name from the legend that says during full moons, the waterfall turns into pure gold. Some also believe that drinking from this waterfall will bring good luck and fortune.
9. The Dragon Shrine at Kosenji Temple: Kosenji Temple is known for its dragon shrine where people come to pray for rain during droughts and protection against natural disasters.
10. The Legend of Yumomi Girls: Yumomi is a traditional method of cooling down hot spring water using delicate dance-like movements performed by women wearing straw hats. According to legend, this method was created by women who wanted to make sure the water was not too hot for their beloved lord who visited Kusatsu Onsen often.
11. The Curse of Blood Pools Bridge: It is said that those who cross Blood Pools Bridge (named after its red hue) in Kusatsu Onsen will suffer bad luck or even death if they are carrying any kind of weapons due to an ancient curse placed on it.
12. Nine Sources Hot Spring Hell: This area of nine boiling hot springs was named after a story about Buddha visiting Kusatsu Onsen and designating each source as one of the nine hells in Buddhist teachings.
13. Benkei’s Cave at Ainomine Kominkan: Ainomine Kominkan is a community center built on the former site of the mythical Benkei’s Cave. The story goes that warrior monk, Benkei, used to live and practice asceticism in this cave.
14. The Turtle Stone at Kiryu Shrine: At Kiryu Shrine, there is a rock with a carving of a turtle shell that is believed to bring longevity to those who touch it or pour hot spring water over it.
15. The Legend of Museki Inari Shrine: A small shrine dedicated to the god Inari is located at the entrance of Netsu no Yudokoro (hot spring footbath). According to legend, carvings of foxes at this shrine came alive at night and played pranks on villagers until they made offerings to appease them.
16. The Healing Powers of Tsuki-jinja Shrine: Tsuki-jinja Shrine is considered one of the oldest shrines in Kusatsu Onsen, and it is said that its waters have healing powers. People come here to pray for good health and longevity.
17. Has any famous artwork or literature been inspired by the beauty and history of Kusatsu Onsen?
Yes, there is a 19th century ukiyo-e woodblock print series by Utagawa Hiroshige titled “Kusatsu Onsen” which depicts the famous hot springs and surrounding natural beauty. Additionally, there have been numerous poems and works of literature written about Kusatsu Onsen by notable Japanese writers such as Natsume Soseki and Dazai Osamu.
18. Are there any historical landmarks or sites that offer a glimpse into Kusatsu Onsen’s role as a healing destination for the sick and weary?
Yes, there are several historical landmarks and sites in Kusatsu Onsen that offer a glimpse into its role as a healing destination for the sick and weary:
1. Yubatake: This is the most iconic landmark of Kusatsu Onsen, and it was originally built in 1563 to distribute hot spring water from Mt. Shirane to various bathing facilities in the area. It is also known as “the healing source of Kusatsu” and is still used today to supply hot spring water.
2. Netsu no Yu Bathhouse: This bathhouse was first constructed in 1771, and it was one of the first public bathhouses in Kusatsu Onsen. It is famous for its high-temperature open-air baths, which are said to have healing properties for various ailments.
3. Jizoken Inari Shrine: This shrine is dedicated to the goddess of health, Inari, and was built in 1814 by local villagers seeking protection from epidemics. Many visitors come here to pray for good health and rejuvenation.
4. Sainokawara Park: Located near Yubatake, this park has a large footbath with naturally flowing hot spring water that people can soak their feet in while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
5. Sai no Kawara Public Bathhouse: This public bathhouse was established in 1883 and has been welcoming visitors ever since. Its wooden structure and traditional design have remained unchanged throughout the years, providing a glimpse into the past.
6. Shirozaka Gold Mine: Established during the Edo period, this gold mine played a significant role in financing the construction of Yubatake and other local infrastructure related to onsen development.
7. Kosobe Folk House Museum: This museum showcases traditional Edo-period houses that were once used by village leaders for entertaining important guests who came to visit Kusatsu Onsen.
8. Ohtaki Village: This village was once the home of doctors who treated patients with traditional Japanese medicine. It is now a museum that showcases traditional healing methods and tools used in Kusatsu.
9. Onsen-ji Temple: This temple, built in 765 AD, is known for its medicinal bath, which was discovered by a priest who cured his paralyzed arm after bathing in it.
10. Otaki Castle Ruins: These ruins were originally built to protect Kusatsu Onsen from invaders during the Warring States period but later became a site for hot spring pilgrimages and meditation retreats.
19. How have natural disasters, such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, affected Kusatsu Onsen throughout history?
Kusatsu Onsen is located in an area known as the “Japan Alps,” which is characterized by frequent seismic and volcanic activity. Therefore, natural disasters, such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, have had a significant impact on the area throughout history.
Earthquakes have caused damage to buildings and infrastructure in Kusatsu Onsen. In 1948, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck the region and destroyed many of the traditional ryokans and bathhouses in the town. It took several years for Kusatsu Onsen to rebuild and regain its popularity as a top hot spring destination.
Volcanic eruptions have also affected Kusatsu Onsen. The most notable event occurred in 1783 when Mount Asama, an active volcano about 30 kilometers from Kusatsu Onsen, erupted explosively. The eruption caused significant damage to the town and temporarily dried up some of the hot springs. However, due to its location on multiple geothermal fault lines, Kusatsu Onsen was able to recover quickly after the eruption.
More recently, in 2004, a minor volcanic eruption occurred near Kusatsu Onsen which resulted in ashfall covering the town. While this did not cause any significant damage, it briefly disrupted tourism in the area.
Despite their destructive potential, natural disasters are also considered an important part of Kusatsu’s history and culture. Its residents have learned to adapt to living near these volatile forces of nature and have incorporated them into local folklore and traditions.
20. Can you recommend any local restaurants or food stalls near historical landmarks in Kusatsu Onsen that offer traditional dishes or snacks?
Some options for traditional dishes and snacks near historical landmarks in Kusatsu Onsen include:1. Sengokuhara Ramen: This ramen shop is located near Yubatake, the iconic hot spring source of Kusatsu Onsen. Their signature dish is a hearty bowl of spicy miso ramen, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
2. Chiyaho: Situated near Netsunoyu Hot Spring, this cozy restaurant serves up classic Japanese comfort food like oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl) and tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet). The friendly atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
3. Kusatsu Chaya: If you’re visiting the Kusatsu Onsen Museum or strolling through the town to admire its charming traditional architecture, be sure to stop by Kusatsu Chaya for some wagashi (Japanese sweets). Their famous manju (steamed buns filled with sweet red bean paste) are a must-try.
4. Jikinsai Cafe & Gallery: Located near Yubatake, this cafe offers a unique fusion of traditional Japanese and Western cuisine, as well as beautiful pottery and artwork on display. Try their homemade soba noodles or their famous Matcha Latte made with local Kusatsu green tea.
5. Tsukinushiya: If you’re exploring the nearby Shiga-Kogen Ski Resort or taking in the nature at Joshinetsu National Park, stop by Tsukinushiya for delicious handmade soba noodles made from local buckwheat flour. They also serve traditional Japanese favorites like tempura and udon noodles.