Kusatsu Onsen Day 2 - Otaki-no-Yu, Gunma Beef BBQ & Temple Visit Grand Finale
The final day of our Kusatsu Onsen trip, September 2nd, 2023. Starting with breakfast, experiencing the hot springs at Otaki-no-Yu, enjoying exquisite Gunma beef BBQ, and visiting Kosen-ji Temple - here’s our report of a fulfilling second day.
Breakfast at the Ryokan
Checking the hotel shuttle bus schedule to plan Day 2
Detailed map of Kusatsu Onsen - checking today’s destinations
First thing in the morning, we planned our second day using the hotel shuttle bus schedule and Kusatsu Onsen map. Planning for efficient travel time to Otaki-no-Yu and lunch locations is crucial for making the most of our time.
Authentic Hot Spring Experience at Otaki-no-Yu
“Otaki-no-Yu,” the representative day-trip hot spring facility of Kusatsu Onsen
The main event of Day 2 was “Otaki-no-Yu,” the most popular hot spring facility in Kusatsu Onsen. Famous for its “awase-yu” (gradual temperature adjustment) system, this facility allows you to enjoy Kusatsu’s hot springs gradually.
The spring quality is acidic, sulfur-containing aluminum sulfate and chloride hot spring with a pH of 2.1, characterized by strong acidity. We thoroughly enjoyed Kusatsu’s famous waters, which have high sterilization effects and are expected to benefit the skin.
Exquisite! Gunma Beef BBQ Lunch
After refreshing ourselves in the hot springs, we headed to the much-anticipated Gunma beef BBQ lunch.
Charcoal BBQ setup complete - a moment of rising anticipation
Premium charcoal grill ready for the finest Gunma beef
Beautiful marbled Gunma beef - a feast for the eyes
The moment premium beef meets charcoal fire
Perfectly grilled Gunma beef - the aroma is incredible
The ultimate moment - savoring the exquisite taste
Gunma beef is one of Japan’s premium wagyu brands, known for its exceptional marbling and tender texture. Grilled over charcoal, the meat’s natural flavors were maximized. The sweetness of the fat and the deep umami of the meat created an unforgettable culinary experience.
Town Exploration and Shopping
After lunch, we took time to explore Kusatsu’s hot spring town and do some shopping.
Traditional Japanese sweets shop in the hot spring town
Display of Kusatsu’s local specialty products
The hot spring town is lined with traditional sweet shops and souvenir stores. Local specialties include hot spring manju (steamed buns), yubatake cookies, and sulfur soap - all perfect mementos of our Kusatsu visit.
Spiritual Conclusion at Kosen-ji Temple
Approach to Kosen-ji Temple - a place of spiritual tranquility
The solemn main hall of Kosen-ji Temple
Peaceful temple grounds surrounded by nature
The historic temple bell
To conclude our Kusatsu Onsen journey, we visited Kosen-ji Temple. This historic temple, nestled in nature, provided a perfect spiritual ending to our hot spring trip. The sound of the temple bell echoing through the mountain air created a deeply moving moment.
Homeward Journey
Platform at the local station - time to head home
The local train that will take us on the first leg of our journey home
Beautiful scenery along the route home
Our time in Kusatsu Onsen came to an end, and we began our journey home. The local train ride through Gunma’s mountains provided beautiful scenery, allowing us to reflect on our wonderful two-day experience.
Day 2 Summary
The second day of Kusatsu Onsen perfectly concluded our journey:
🌟 Day 2 Highlights:
- Otaki-no-Yu Experience - Authentic awase-yu hot spring system
- Premium Gunma Beef BBQ - Unforgettable wagyu experience
- Hot Spring Town Strolling - Traditional atmosphere and shopping
- Kosen-ji Temple Visit - Spiritual conclusion to the trip
- Scenic Journey Home - Beautiful mountain landscapes
Overall Trip Reflection
This two-day Kusatsu Onsen journey was truly exceptional:
✨ Trip Highlights:
- World-class Hot Springs - The healing power of strong acidic waters
- Culinary Excellence - From maitake tempura to Gunma beef
- Traditional Hospitality - Authentic ryokan experience
- Natural Beauty - Yubatake and mountain landscapes
- Cultural Experience - Temple visit and local traditions
💫 Recommendation Level: ★★★★★
Kusatsu Onsen offers the perfect combination of natural hot springs, delicious cuisine, traditional hospitality, and cultural experiences. It’s truly one of Japan’s finest hot spring destinations that exceeded all our expectations.
📍 Access: Kan-Etsu Expressway Shibukawa Ikaho IC → via National Routes 17 & 353, about 1 hour
🏨 Accommodation: Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Resort
🍽️ Recommended: Otaki-no-Yu + Local BBQ restaurants
⭐ Overall Rating: ★★★★★