Gozanoyu — Local services in Kusatsu

Really enjoyed the experience in this bath house. It was very clean, tidy and there are lockers to put your shoes away whilst there are other lockers near the baths for your valuables. It’s best not to bring too much in with you.

You do need to bring your own towel but towels are available for purchase but only big enough to tie your hair up. As an overseas visitor, bath houses are a concept that isn’t at all a thing at home, so it was a bit intimidating on what to do. Also as someone with tattoos, I had no issues being accepted in. Other guests may have been put off by a foreigner in there, but I am appreciating the culture as well as the area itself. Can’t really visit without trying it out once.

The water itself was hot which was nice to relax in- feeling all the stresses wash away. There was 4 baths in the same room and I was able to use one by myself for a little while. Did have to wait for the other facilities to be free such as the wash station but not...

Right by the Yubatake in a central location. Shoes should be taken off immediately at the entrance. This wasn’t obvious to me as there was no mat or signs of shoes.

Place your shoes in a free locker and take the key. Entrance is ¥800 for adults, you will be charged extra if you didn’t bring your own towel.

The interior design is very well executed and the lighting also gives a relaxing vibe. The changing rooms have hairdryer and 2 products (for the hair?).

It was very dark and gloomy in the actual onsen. Not in an atmospheric way unfortunately but the water temperature was quite hot. There were 3 baths. I tried 2 of them. The first was extremely hot, the second was a temperature similar to other onsen I have been to.

The relaxation area on the second floor is spacious and has nice views of the Yubatake and plaza just outside.

Tattoos...

The atmosphere is so mesmerising and authentic its worth mentioning it. Nice experience overal, clean and mature environment while still maintaining a traditional look. 9/10

While your body slowly cookes and your balls turn into an onsen tomago, I am still inclined to say that the temperature is hot but nothing extreme. The bath is incredibly rich in minerals, you'll feel very refreshed after taking it, I guarantee it! Those minerals sure do their magic on your body, not the " I'm going to run a marathon" kind of magic but you'll feel 10years younger for sure. What I liked the most is the acidity of water ( please don't drink it...). After taking the bath I felt like a refreshed pickled cucumber. Best feeling ever.

P.s. unique experience...