5 Best Hotels in Kusatsu with Open-Air Onsen

Kusatsu, Japan, is renowned for its hot springs and traditional ryokan experiences. If you’re planning a trip to this charming onsen town, staying at a hotel with an open-air onsen is a must. Here are five of the best hotels in Kusatsu that offer luxurious open-air baths, traditional Japanese hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.

Summary Table

Hotel Name	Link	Highlights
Tokinoniwa	Book Tokinoniwa	Private open-air onsen
Hotel Ichii	Book Hotel Ichii	Central location, great views
Kirishimaya Ryokan	Book Kirishimaya Ryokan	Free private onsen sessions
Kane Midori	Book Kane Midori	Authentic Japanese experience
Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel	Book Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel	Luxury with multiple onsens

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1. Tokinoniwa

Tokinoniwa is a tranquil ryokan located on the outskirts of Kusatsu, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. Each room features a private open-air onsen, allowing guests to enjoy the therapeutic hot springs in privacy. The ryokan also offers a variety of public baths, including saunas and bedrock baths. Guests can indulge in traditional kaiseki-style meals made with fresh, local ingredients. A free shuttle service is available to take you to the town center.

• Room Types: Japanese-style and Western-style beds
• Dining: Kaiseki-style dinner and breakfast
• Proximity: 4-minute drive or 13-minute walk to Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal
• Hotel Link: Book Tokinoniwa

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2. Hotel Ichii

Located in the heart of Kusatsu, Hotel Ichii offers a perfect blend of convenience and traditional charm. The hotel features both indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, with stunning views of the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding. The hotel is just steps away from Yubatake, Kusatsu’s iconic hot spring field, making it an excellent choice for exploring the town.

• Room Types: Japanese-style rooms
• Dining: Traditional Japanese meals
• Proximity: Central location, near Yubatake
• Hotel Link: Book Hotel Ichii

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3. Kirishimaya Ryokan

Kirishimaya Ryokan is a peaceful retreat offering both public and private hot spring baths with breathtaking mountain views. The ryokan features traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding. Guests can enjoy complimentary private onsen sessions and explore nearby hiking trails. The ryokan is within walking distance of Kusatsu’s town center, making it a convenient yet serene option.

• Room Types: Japanese-style rooms
• Dining: Local Japanese cuisine
• Proximity: Walking distance to the town center
• Hotel Link: Book Kirishimaya Ryokan

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4. Kane Midori

Kane Midori is a charming ryokan that offers a mix of traditional and modern amenities. Guests can relax in the open-air onsen baths or enjoy a massage after a day of exploring. The ryokan provides Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon bedding, creating an authentic experience. Its central location makes it easy to access Kusatsu’s main attractions, including Yubatake and Sainokawara Park.

• Room Types: Japanese-style rooms
• Dining: Traditional Japanese meals
• Proximity: Central location, near major attractions
• Hotel Link: Book Kane Midori

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5. Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel

This modern resort hotel combines luxury with traditional onsen culture. Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel features both indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, as well as a sauna and spa facilities. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including Western-style suites and Japanese-style rooms. The hotel also offers multiple dining options, including a buffet with local and international cuisine.

• Room Types: Western-style and Japanese-style rooms
• Dining: Buffet and à la carte options
• Proximity: Shuttle service available to town center
• Hotel Link: Book Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel

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Summary Table

Hotel Name	Link	Highlights
Tokinoniwa	Book Tokinoniwa	Private open-air onsen
Hotel Ichii	Book Hotel Ichii	Central location, great views
Kirishimaya Ryokan	Book Kirishimaya Ryokan	Free private onsen sessions
Kane Midori	Book Kane Midori	Authentic Japanese experience
Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel	Book Kusatsu Now Resort Hotel	Luxury with multiple onsens