If you have been to Karuizawa, make sure to take the extra 60 to 90 minutes to head toward Kusatsu Onsen. As one of the most famous hot spring resorts in Japan, this place is possibly the most famous hot spring domestically. Since it is so popular among Japanese, it has not been fully discovered by international visitors. The hot springs here come from nearby Mt. Kusatsu Shirane and the locals say
it will cure all ailments except "love sickness". Erwin von Baelz, a German doctor, studied the properties of the hot springs as a possible treatment for Hansen's disease and there is a museum dedicated to his work at the Kusatsu Onsen entrance. The whole place is so ancient and so well thought out, there is really so much to see and enjoy all year round. We hope you will make the trip and be healed in heart and soul by the beautiful surroundings, friendly people, excellent food and calming hot spring water.