Top reasons to visit Kusatsu
- Renowned Kusatsu Onsen: Experience the therapeutic hot springs that Kusatsu is famous for, providing relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy skiing at Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort and explore the stunning landscapes of nearby Agatsuma County.
- Scenic Views: Take in breathtaking views from Mount Kusatsu, perfect for both adventure seekers and tranquility lovers.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit local temples, art museums, and the charming Kusatsu Onsen Street to immerse yourself in rich culture.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels, all enhancing your onsen experience.
Find great hotels near Kusatsu
Kusatsu offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels, all designed to enhance your onsen experience. With a strong emphasis on LGBTQIA-friendly services and family-oriented amenities, you'll find the perfect place to unwind. Whether you seek a traditional ryokan or a modern hotel, Kusatsu's hot spring-themed lodgings promise a memorable vacation in this beautiful region of Shiga Prefecture.
- Cross Hotel Kyoto: Embracing diversity and inclusion, Cross Hotel Kyoto is a 3.5-star property that welcomes LGBTQIA travelers with open arms. Located 17.7km from Kusatsu, this hotel combines modern comfort with a warm atmosphere. Guests can expect stylishly designed rooms equipped with contemporary amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay. The hotel is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, providing resources and support for travelers seeking a welcoming environment. Whether you’re exploring Kyoto or enjoying local attractions, Cross Hotel Kyoto is an ideal base for your journey.
- The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo: This luxurious 4-star hotel, situated 17.7km from Kusatsu, offers an exceptional stay with a perfect blend of modern elegance and traditional hospitality. Guests can indulge in various dining options, including a restaurant and bar, along with a delightful buffet breakfast. The entertainment amenities, such as a flat-screen TV and digital options, ensure relaxation after a day of exploration. The hotel’s prime location allows easy access to the city center, making it a great choice for those wanting to experience Kyoto’s vibrant culture and sights.
- Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto: Perfectly located in the city center, Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto is a 3.5-star accommodation that caters to LGBTQIA travelers and city enthusiasts alike. Just 17.7km from Kusatsu, this hotel features modern decor and comfortable rooms, making it an inviting retreat. The property is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, ensuring that guests feel at home. With its central location, visitors can effortlessly explore local attractions, shopping, and dining, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the heart of Kyoto.
Where to stay in and around Kusatsu
Discover the charm of Kusatsu, a delightful city perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Stroll through the famous Kusatsu Onsen area, where relaxing hot springs and friendly locals await. Venture into nearby Agatsuma County for stunning landscapes and open spaces. Whether you're traveling on a budget or with family, Kusatsu offers a welcoming atmosphere rich in culture and breathtaking scenery, making it an unforgettable destination in Japan.
- Kyoto: As a bustling metropolis located 17.7km from Kusatsu, Kyoto is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historic significance. Visitors flock to this city year-round, with peaks in April and during the autumn months. Travelers seeking a blend of family-friendly activities, city exploration, and business opportunities will find Kyoto offers an abundance of attractions. From vibrant shopping districts to historic landmarks, including exquisite temples and serene gardens, there’s something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to soak in the city's famous onsens or visit the nearby theme parks for a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
- Ritto: Just 4.8km from Kusatsu, Ritto is a charming city that captivates visitors with its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Ideal for those looking for a romantic getaway or simply a scenic retreat, Ritto sees a spike in visitors during the spring and summer months. The city boasts various attractions, including a planetarium observatory and a ski resort for winter sports enthusiasts. Nature lovers can explore nearby lakes and cultural centers, while shopping areas provide a taste of local commerce and crafts, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience.
- Hirashofuku Onsen: Nestled in the Kusatsu area, Hirashofuku Onsen is a quaint village renowned for its soothing hot springs and outdoor adventures. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding this destination, with peak travel times in spring and fall. Ideal for those seeking outdoor sports or ski experiences, the village offers access to ski fields and cable car gondolas. Additionally, you can explore local temples and lookouts, providing a spiritual and scenic backdrop to your journey, making it a perfect escape into nature.
Things to do in and around Kusatsu
Kusatsu, nestled in Shiga Prefecture, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it ideal for romantic getaways. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating body treatments, explore the captivating planetarium observatory, and enjoy shopping in vibrant areas. Don’t miss the chance to experience the renowned Kusatsu Onsen, famous for its therapeutic hot springs, and explore major attractions that highlight the region's rich culture and natural wonders.
Shopping
Aeon Mall Kusatsu offers a vibrant shopping experience right in the heart of Kusatsu, featuring entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, Pontocho Alley, located 17.7km away, provides a unique blend of shopping and entertainment, while Roadside Station Konzeno-sato Ritto, just 8.0km away, is perfect for local gifts.
Recreation
Explore Yabasekihan Island Park for a serene day of relaxation amidst nature. Enjoy scenic views and tranquil walking paths. For more outdoor fun, head to Ritto-city Yasu River Athletic Park or Shiga-kenritsu Omi Fuji Karyoku Park, both offering peaceful environments perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating.
Adventure
Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers exhilarating skiing experiences set in a stunning landscape, located 20.9km from Kusatsu. For more outdoor adventure, visit Biwako Valley Ski Resort, 22.5km away, featuring thrilling ski runs. For families, the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, 17.7km distant, provides scenic views and fun.
Nightlife
Experience Kusatsu's nightlife by visiting Biwako Hall for captivating performances, or head to Hotaru Planetarium for family-friendly entertainment under the stars. For a cultural evening, the Samurai Kembu Theater offers an enchanting blend of romance and traditional arts, making each venue a unique part of your night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kusatsu
To save money on your trip to Kusatsu, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or September. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better rates, especially if you check Expedia for last-minute deals and packages that combine flights and activities. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly accommodations and sort prices from lowest to highest to find great deals. Exploring the area on foot and enjoying free local attractions can further help you save.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kusatsu are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kusatsu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kusatsu is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kusatsu is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Kusatsu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Kusatsu
Kusatsu, nestled in Shiga Prefecture, is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, showcasing stunning scenery and rich culture. Explore the charming Kusatsu Onsen Street, enjoy skiing at Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort, or visit local temples and art museums. Don't miss the breathtaking views from Mount Kusatsu, offering a blend of adventure and tranquility for every traveler seeking an unforgettable experience.
- Kiyomizu Temple: Located 16.1km from Kusatsu, Kiyomizu Temple offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is famous for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it embodies traditional Japanese architecture and is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Also 16.1km away, Fushimi Inari Shrine is renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind through the forested mountain trails. This iconic shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, providing a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
- Kyoto University: Situated 16.1km from Kusatsu, Kyoto University is one of Japan's most prestigious institutions, showcasing beautiful traditional architecture and lush campus gardens. Its rich history and vibrant academic culture create a unique backdrop for visitors.
Best time to go to Kusatsu
The best time to visit Kusatsu can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kusatsu falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kusatsu falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Kusatsu
Traveling to Kusatsu, Shiga Prefecture is convenient with several major airports nearby. Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) is 91.7km away, with excellent accommodations like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal. Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), located 80.5km from Kusatsu, offers options such as the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km away. Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is the closest at 53.1km, with luxurious stays like the 5-star InterContinental Osaka, just 11.3km from the airport. Each hotel provides various transportation services to ensure a smooth journey to your destination.