Kusatsu Onsen

A hot spring area counted as one of Japan’s three most famous. With over 100 source springs, the area generates some 32 thousand liters of natural hot spring water every minute, the greatest production volume in Japan. Since ancient times, the area has flourished as a therapeutic spa, and unique, long-standing traditions remain deeply rooted here, such as the custom of “yumomi,” the cooling of extremely hot spring waters by agitating them with thick wooden planks; and “jikan-yu” timed bathing, a practice distinct to Kusatsu which emerged in the late Edo period. The area’s primarily acidic springs are known for their powerful antibacterial properties, and it is even said they will “treat any disease other than love sickness.” The area is dotted with art museums and is also known as an art town.