An overnight ryokan stay in either Kusatsu or Ikaho, Gunma’s two most celebrated onsen towns, offers a complete traditional hot spring experience that a day trip can’t match — tatami-floored rooms, futon bedding, an elaborate multi-course kaiseki dinner, and typically unlimited access to the ryokan’s baths at any hour, allowing repeated soaks morning, evening and night. Kusatsu offers Japan’s top-ranked spring water and the dramatic Yubatake, while Ikaho’s distinctive rust-orange ‘golden’ waters and atmospheric stone-step main street offer a quieter, equally traditional alternative.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Kusatsu or Ikaho, Gunma |
| Hours | Check-in typically 15:00, check-out ~10:00–11:00 |
| Admission | Ryokan rates typically ¥15,000–35,000+ per person with meals |
| Time needed | Overnight (1–2 nights) |
| Best time | Year-round; winter for the coziest atmosphere |
What to Do
- Unlimited bathing access at any hour of your stay.
- A traditional tatami room with futon bedding.
- An elaborate multi-course kaiseki dinner and breakfast.
- A choice between Kusatsu’s famous waters or Ikaho’s golden onsen.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Kusatsu Onsen sightseeing if staying in Kusatsu.
- Pair with Ikaho Onsen sightseeing if staying in Ikaho.
- Read our Gunma overview .
Getting There
- By train + bus: JR to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi (for Kusatsu) or Shibukawa (for Ikaho), then local bus.
- By car: roughly 2.5–3 hours from central Tokyo depending on the town.
Tips
Book well in advance for weekend stays, as popular ryokan fill up, especially during peak seasons like autumn foliage and New Year. Dinner and breakfast times are usually fixed by the ryokan — check the schedule when booking if you have specific timing needs.
