Gunma » Kusatsu, Shima (Gunma)
Kusatsu and Shima, both located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, offer stunning natural beauty, hot springs, delicious cuisine, and cultural experiences. Here are some recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, hot springs, activities, and souvenirs in Kusatsu and Shima:
Yubatake: Visit the iconic Yubatake, a hot water field in the center of Kusatsu, where you can witness the boiling hot spring water being channeled into wooden troughs.
Kusatsu Onsen Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Kusatsu's hot springs at this informative museum.
Kusatsu Nettaiken: Explore this interactive facility that showcases the unique culture and practices of Kusatsu Onsen.
Kusatsu Onsen Manju: Try the local specialty, Kusatsu Onsen Manju, a steamed bun filled with sweet red bean paste.
Yumomi: Experience the traditional Yumomi performance, where hot spring water is stirred with large wooden paddles to cool it down, accompanied by live singing and dancing.
Ryokans: Stay at one of the traditional ryokans in Kusatsu, which offer comfortable rooms, hot spring baths, and authentic Japanese hospitality.
Kusatsu Onsen: Immerse yourself in the healing hot springs of Kusatsu, known for their high-quality water and therapeutic properties. Don't miss the public bathhouses like Sainokawara Rotemburo and Otaki-no-Yu.
Skiing at Kusatsu International Ski Resort: If you visit during the winter season, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at this popular ski resort.
Kusatsu Snow Festival: Experience the magical atmosphere of the Kusatsu Snow Festival held in February, featuring beautiful snow sculptures and illuminations.
Kusatsu Onsen-related Products: Look for souvenirs such as Kusatsu Onsen bath salts, skincare products, or locally produced hot spring-themed items.
Local Food Products: Purchase specialty food items like Kusatsu Onsen tamago (hot spring eggs), local honey, or pickled vegetables.
Shima Onsen: Visit Shima Onsen, a picturesque hot spring town nestled in the mountains, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful nature.
Fudo Falls: Take a stroll to Fudo Falls, a scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Shima Onsen Ryokan Cuisine: Indulge in the delicious kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals offered at the ryokans in Shima Onsen, featuring local ingredients and flavors.
Ryokans in Shima Onsen: Stay at one of the traditional ryokans in Shima Onsen, which offer a relaxing atmosphere, hot spring baths, and authentic Japanese hospitality.
Shima Onsen: Enjoy the therapeutic hot springs of Shima Onsen, known for their milky white water and calming properties. Try various baths, including open-air baths and foot baths.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding nature by taking a hike through the scenic mountains and trails in the Shima area.
Shima Onsen Kodo: Walk the Shima Onsen Kodo, an ancient pilgrimage route that connects several hot spring towns in the area.
Shima Onsen Goods: Look for local products like Shima Onsen bath salts, skincare products, or handmade crafts.
Traditional Crafts: Explore shops selling locally made crafts such as pottery, wooden items, or textiles.
When planning your trip to Kusatsu, Shima, and Japan, make sure to check the latest COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions, as they may have changed since my last knowledge update in September 2021. Enjoy your visit to these beautiful destinations and have a rejuvenating and memorable experience!
Kusatsu and Shima, located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, are known for their hot springs and natural beauty. Here are details about specialties and local foods, highly rated restaurants, and souvenirs you can explore in these areas:
Kusatsu Onsen Tamago: Kusatsu Onsen is famous for its hot spring eggs. These eggs are boiled in the natural hot spring water, resulting in a unique flavor and texture. They are often enjoyed as a snack or added to rice dishes.
Kusatsu Onsen Manju: Kusatsu Onsen Manju is a local specialty sweet bun filled with sweet red bean paste. It's a popular treat to enjoy while strolling through the streets of Kusatsu.
Shima Onsen Soba: Shima is known for its delicious soba (buckwheat noodles). The locally grown buckwheat is ground and made into noodles, which are served hot or cold with various toppings and dipping sauces.
Ryokan Fujiya: Ryokan Fujiya is a highly rated traditional inn in Kusatsu that offers a range of authentic Japanese dishes. They specialize in Kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients.
Yamatoan: Yamatoan is a renowned restaurant in Shima that serves traditional Japanese cuisine. They offer a variety of dishes, including Shima Onsen Soba, fresh seafood, and hot pot dishes.
Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku: Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku is a well-regarded ryokan (traditional inn) in Minakami, near Shima. They provide an exquisite dining experience with their multi-course kaiseki meals featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
Kusatsu Yubatake Goods: Yubatake is the main hot water field in Kusatsu, where the hot spring water is gathered. Look for souvenirs related to Yubatake, such as towels, bath products, or ceramics with Yubatake motifs.
Shima Onsen Osen Meguri-manju: Shima Onsen Osen Meguri-manju is a popular souvenir in Shima. These sweet buns are filled with various flavors such as red bean, matcha, or sweet potato.
Local Craft and Artwork: Explore local shops in Kusatsu and Shima for handmade crafts and artwork. Look for items like pottery, traditional textiles, or woodcraft as unique souvenirs that represent the local craftsmanship.
Kusatsu Onsen Cosmetics: Kusatsu is known for its high-quality hot spring water, which is believed to have beneficial effects on the skin. Look for skincare and beauty products made with Kusatsu hot spring water as pampering souvenirs.
Take the time to relax in the hot springs, explore the scenic beauty, and visit local shops in Kusatsu and Shima to discover a wider range of souvenirs and local delicacies. Enjoy your sightseeing and immerse yourself in the unique experiences and flavors of these areas!
Kusatsu is a beautiful city located in the Shima Peninsula of Japan. It offers a range of festivals and events throughout the year that showcase the local culture, traditions, and natural beauty of the region. Here are some notable festivals and events in Kusatsu during each season:
Kusatsu Cherry Blossom Festival: Held in late March to early April, this festival celebrates the arrival of spring and the blooming cherry blossoms. The city's parks and streets are adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque setting for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties.
Kusatsu Summer Festival: Taking place in late July, this festival is one of the major events in Kusatsu. It features lively parades, traditional dances, fireworks displays, and food stalls offering local delicacies. The festival's highlight is the "Shishi Odori" (Lion Dance), a vibrant performance believed to bring good luck.
Kusatsu Autumn Leaves Festival: During mid to late November, this festival celebrates the stunning autumn foliage that blankets the city. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors of maple trees in various parks and gardens. The festival often includes cultural performances, tea ceremonies, and art exhibitions.
Kusatsu Winter Illuminations: From late November to early January, Kusatsu transforms into a winter wonderland with enchanting illuminations. The city's parks, streets, and landmarks are adorned with thousands of colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through illuminated paths and enjoy festive displays.
Special Features:
Kusatsu Onsen: Kusatsu is famous for its hot springs, particularly Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's top hot spring resorts. The natural mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can relax in public bathhouses or ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and experience the rejuvenating benefits of hot spring bathing.
Seafood Cuisine: Being located in the coastal region of Shima, Kusatsu offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local delicacies like sashimi (raw fish), grilled fish, and seafood soups. The city's markets and restaurants are excellent places to sample the region's culinary delights.
Scenic Landscapes: Kusatsu boasts stunning landscapes with picturesque mountains, coastal views, and lush greenery. The city is known for its natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring scenic trails.
While planning your visit to Kusatsu, be sure to check the specific dates of festivals and events as they may vary each year. Enjoy your sightseeing in Kusatsu and immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural wonders of the city!
Kusatsu is a famous hot spring resort town located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. Here's an overview of the climate and temperature in Kusatsu, Gunma, during each season: