Around Nishino Kawara Open-air Bath × Accommodation With Private Hot Spring SourceHighly rated Hotel·Ryokan

It was really great!

Although the building is historic and compact, the cuisine—and even the tableware it is served on—are outstanding. The hot spring water comes from both the Yubatake source and the Ryokan’s own private source, each offering a distinct bathing experience. The staff are wonderful and exceptionally attentive. This is an Accommodation you will want to stay at again and again.

My first time in Kusatsu Onsen. Since my skin is sensitive, I did some research and found that the Jizo-no-Yu source is relatively gentle, so I chose this Accommodation because it draws water from that source. It’s a historic Accommodation, and the building has a charming atmosphere. For dinner, we chose the Joshu beef Plan and it was delicious. Breakfast had most side dishes set out in advance; only the rice and miso soup were served hot. It might feel a bit light for big eaters, but I thought it was just the right amount since we planned to snack while walking around after checkout. Best of all was the private bath you can use exclusively. Maybe our timing was lucky, but it was always available whenever we went. Even though Jizo-no-Yu felt hot at first, once we stirred the water before getting in, we quickly got used to it. It didn’t sting at all, and my skin became smooth right away—something I’d never experienced before. Of course, it warmed me through to the core as well. We could relax and fully enjoy Jizo-no-Yu without worrying about anyone else, and it was so comfortable that we ended up not using the gender-segregated baths at all. I’d love to stay here again when I visit Kusatsu.

I stayed here for one night on the second night of my five-night solo trip to Kusatsu Onsen from Fukuoka, and I’m glad I was able to get a Reservation. I had heard that Kusatsu Onsen has various types of spring water, so I chose this Ryokan because it has a great reputation for its water quality and allows solo guests to enjoy the Onsen. Just as expected, the Onsen was truly wonderful, and I enjoyed soaking many times. I also visited several public baths—hot, tingling springs like Jizo-no-Yu felt great—but Gokurakukan’s comfortably warm Onsen was perfect for a long soak. It’s also recommended for those who don’t like very hot water. Towels were available in the Room as well as in the changing area by the bath, which was very convenient. Another nice point was being able to go to the Onsen without passing through the front desk, making it easy even early in the morning. The Room was clean, and the toilet was exceptionally spotless. I was happy to find Matsumura manju served with tea snacks. The free breakfast was delicious—the bread was wonderfully chewy. I also had dinner at the restaurant on the second floor; both the curry doria and carrot salad were excellent. At check-out, the owner and staff kindly gave me detailed sightseeing tips around Kusatsu. Thanks to them, I learned about Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture and went there using car sharing. After waiting about 30 minutes, I was lucky enough to see monkeys soaking in an Onsen—it was amazing. The next day, I used car sharing again and enjoyed Ikaho’s hot spring buns and Mizusawa udon as well. It became a truly memorable solo trip. The hospitality was warm and welcoming, and next time I’d love to stay with my family—thank you very much.