7 Beautiful Ryokans in Kusatsu with Onsen Baths

Looking for ryokans in Kusatsu with private onsen baths and kaiseki dinners? Here are the top traditional stays for your next onsen escape.

Kusatsu is one of the most famous onsen towns in Japan. And once you get here, you’ll understand why.

The town is small, walkable, and full of character, with steam rising from the streets and the scent of sulfur in the air. At the center is Yubatake, a powerful hot spring source that flows right through town, feeding the baths of many local ryokans.

If you’re planning a visit, staying at a ryokan is one of the best ways to experience Kusatsu. To help you choose, I’ve rounded up some of the best ryokans in Kusatsu.

Each one offers something unique, whether it’s private open-air baths, beautiful old-world architecture, or the kind of hospitality that makes you feel completely at home.

Tokinoniwa

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with serious onsen luxury, Tokinoniwa is one of the best places to stay in Kusatsu. It’s tucked on a quiet hillside, just a short ride from the main town, so you get both the views and the convenience.

The style here is a beautiful blend of traditional and modern. You’ll find tatami mats, warm wood tones, and big windows that frame the mountain views. Some rooms have Western beds if you prefer those, but the atmosphere is very much Japanese comfort.

Every room comes with its own private onsen, which is honestly the dream. On top of that, there are 23 different baths to try: indoor, outdoor, steam, and sauna. You can basically spend all day soaking.

Meals are a highlight. Dinner is a proper kaiseki course, with seasonal dishes served one by one.

Breakfast can be Japanese or Western, and both are generous. There’s also a sake bar if you want to wind down with a drink before heading back to your room.

After dinner, they even serve free late-night ramen. Those little touches make the experience feel extra special.

Getting here is easy. They offer a free shuttle from the Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal. And once you’re settled in, you’re close to walking paths, nature, and the ski slopes in winter.

Kusatsu Hotel

If you want to stay somewhere with real history, Kusatsu Hotel is a gem.

It’s been welcoming guests since 1913, and the building still holds that Taishō-era charm. You’ll find wooden beams, old-style windows, and peaceful interiors that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

The hot springs here use water straight from Yubatake, one of the strongest and most famous sources in town. You can soak in both indoor and open-air baths, or try the footbath if you’re not quite ready for a full dip.

There’s also a cozy lounge for coffee and a garden café where you might spot a few birds while you sip.

You’ll eat your meals in the comfort of your own room. Dinner is a full Japanese course with dishes that highlight local ingredients, and breakfast leans traditional too, though there are some Western touches if you prefer.

It’s just a short walk from Sai-no-Kawara Park and several museums, and the hotel offers free shuttle pickup from the bus terminal. So you don’t need to worry about how you’ll get there.

Osakaya Ryokan

Osakaya Ryokan is a smaller, family-run place that feels like a true hidden gem. It’s right in the heart of Kusatsu, but once you’re inside, it’s all calm and quiet.

The rooms are simple and traditional, with tatami floors and sliding screens. You won’t find flashy décor here, but there’s something really warm and peaceful about the space. It’s the kind of place where you take off your shoes and immediately feel at ease.

There’s a lovely selection of baths, both indoor and outdoor. They also have a private bath you can reserve if you’d rather soak in silence. In the winter, they even offer ski-to-door access, which is rare for a ryokan.

Breakfast is a hearty Japanese set, served in your room. The highlight, though, is dinner: a beautifully arranged kaiseki meal that changes with the seasons. It’s generous, delicious, and made with care.

You’re just a few minutes’ walk from Yubatake and the main shopping streets, so it’s easy to explore between soaks.

Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya

If you’re looking for something small, friendly, and a little more modern, Eidaya is a great choice. It’s just a 10-minute walk from Yubatake and super easy to get to from the bus terminal.

This ryokan blends Japanese tradition with a fresh, simple design. Rooms mix Western beds with tatami seating, which is perfect if you’re new to ryokan stays. Everything feels clean and thoughtful without being too formal.

You can soak in the large public bath, try the open-air tub, or book a private bath if you want a little quiet time. There’s also a cozy lounge with games, manga, and snacks—great for relaxing after dinner or on a rainy evening.

Breakfast is served in a private dining room and includes both Japanese and Western options. It’s not over-the-top, but the food is warm, fresh, and satisfying.

You’re on a quiet street, but everything’s close: gift shops, walking paths, even a few hidden footbaths. If you want a place that’s comfortable, affordable, and still feels special, Eidaya is a solid pick.

Hotel Takamatsu

This one’s a good fit if you want a little more action during your stay. Hotel Takamatsu has a traditional side, but also leans into fun, like massage chairs, karaoke, and even a lounge that turns into a bar at night.

The onsen here is fed directly from Yubatake, and there are several options to choose from, including open-air and indoor baths.

Everything is designed to help you relax after a long day, and if you need a bit more pampering, they’ve got spa services too.

Rooms are classic Japanese style: simple, clean, and cozy. You’ll sleep on futons on tatami mats, and wake up to the smell of breakfast being prepared downstairs.

Dinner is a multi-course affair with local beef and seasonal vegetables, served in a traditional dining room. The flavors are bold, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

It’s a 10-minute walk from the Kusatsu Bus Terminal, and they offer a free shuttle. You’re also close to the ski resort and just steps from shops and local attractions.

Aeruyado Takamatsu

Aeruyado Takamatsu is the modern sister property to Hotel Takamatsu. It’s a great pick if you like fresh design and a quieter vibe. It’s still rooted in Japanese tradition, but everything feels a bit newer and more polished.

The rooms are minimalist but comfortable, with touches like balconies, Western-style beds, and in some cases, your own private onsen. There’s a sauna and a lovely indoor bath, plus a lounge with free drinks and snacks.

Breakfast here is part buffet, part set meal, and includes handmade bread along with local vegetables and egg dishes. For dinner, you’ll head to the main dining area and enjoy kaiseki-style courses, often with Joshu beef on the menu.

It’s located just behind the main hotel, so it’s easy to walk into town or catch the shuttle from the bus terminal. If you want a relaxing stay with just the right balance of comfort and convenience, Aeruyado is a great choice.

Kanemidori

Want to stay somewhere that feels like old Japan but still has all the comfort you want? Kanemidori is a great pick. It’s only a 3-minute walk from Yubatake, but once you step inside, it feels like you’re in a quiet retreat.

This place puts a lot of care into the design. The wood and copper throughout the building are chosen to age beautifully, so it actually gets more atmospheric over time.

The rooms are classic ryokan style: tatami floors, paper screens, calm lighting. It’s the kind of space that makes you slow down.

You’ll have access to two large hot spring baths, and if you want something more private, you can book a personal one for a small fee. Massages are available too, and they’re worth it after a long day walking around town.

Dinner is served in a cozy dining room built around a central fireplace. The food is seasonal and beautifully prepared, with dishes like Joshu beef and local vegetables. Breakfast is traditional Japanese, and it really sets the tone for a relaxed morning.

Since it’s right near the center, you’re only steps away from the main attractions, restaurants, and little temples. It’s a perfect base if you want comfort, style, and location all in one.

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