Because ryokans and hotels’ check-in time is in the afternoon, if you can’t wait to indulge yourself in Kusatsu’s hot spring before you check in, you can stop by Gozanoyu (御座之湯) next to Yubatake. Because of the Shirahata Spring Source, the bathhouse later built on the spot has a connection to Minamoto no Yoritomo (源頼朝). In fact, the bathhouse was named “Goza” because the stone that Yoritomo sat on when he bathed at Kusatsu Onsen is where the Gozanoyu is today!
About Gozanoyu
The facility, completed in 2013, is a replica of a public bathhouse that existed until the Meiji period (1868 – 1912). The hot spring at Gozanoyu is said to be effective for neuralgia, burns, and skin soothing.
Gozanoyu has two onsen pools, a Wooden bath (Kinoyu, 木之湯) made of Japanese cypress and a Stone bath (Ishinoyu, 石之湯) made of granite. Each is connected to a different spring source, Yubatake or Bandai. As the bathhouse alternates the bathing area’s gender, you can try out both pools if you visit Gozanoyu two days in a row.
After a nice hot spring session, you can head up to Gozanoyu’s second floor. The grand hall (Ōhiroma, 大広間) offers a complete view of Yubatake. With the breeze coming from the window, it is the best place to cool down on the tatami mats!
Important: One thing to note about Gozanoyu is while coin lockers, shampoo, body soap, and hair dryers can be used free of charge, towels have to be bought if you didn’t bring any.
Yukata Rental at Gozanoyu
The best thing about Gozanoyu is their Yukata Rental Service April to November. The Yukata that can be rented out at Gozanoyu is the type that can be worn outdoors. What can beat the experience of changing into traditional clothing and strolling around an old onsen town like Kusatsu Onsen?
Plus you can get special perks or discounts at some shops and restaurants!
- The cost of the Yukata rental is 2,500 yen for 3 hours.
- The cost includes admission to Gozanoyu, Yukata, Yukata belt, Geta (wooden clogs), and a bamboo basket that goes with the Yukata. You can also check in your excess belongings with the bathhouse.
- The service is available from 9 am to 5 pm. You need to return it by 8 pm on the day.
Gozanoyu’s Opening Hours, Admission Fee, and Access Information
- Gozanoyu is open from
- 7 am to 9 pm from April to November
- 8 am to 9 pm from the 3rd of December to March
- The last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
- The grand hall is open from 9 am to 8 pm.
- The admission cost is
- 800 yen for adults
- 400 yen for children from the age of 3 to elementary school students
- Gozanoyu is around a 5-minute walk from Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal.
Shirahata Spring Source (白旗源泉)
Before heading to the next spot on your itinerary, remember to visit the Shirahata spring source opposite Gozanoyu. Different from Yubatake, you can examine the Shirahata spring source up close.
The milky white hot spring is said to be discovered by Minamoto no Yoritomo (源頼朝) in 1193. This is why it is named the white flag, the same color as the Gen clan’s flag color.
The surname “源” can be pronounced as Minamoto or Gen. It is pronounced as “Gen” when it is used to refer to the clan/family.
Discover Other Attractions in Kusatsu Onsen
In addition to the Gozanoyu we have introduced, Kusatsu Onsen has much more to offer. Whether it is soba noodles, traditional sweets or outdoor activities, such as obstacle courses and skiing, you surely won’t be bored during your time at Kusatsu Onsen!
For more information, refer to our article on Kusatsu Onsen (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
