Art Pilgrimage in Kusatsu: Encountering Tsurutaro Kataoka's Imaginative World in the Hot Spring Town

Art Pilgrimage in Kusatsu: Encountering Tsurutaro Kataoka's Imaginative World in the Hot Spring Town The Tsurutaro Kataoka Art Museum, nestled in a corner of Kusatsu Onsen Street in Gunma Prefecture, is the artistic universe of Japan's multi-talented artist Tsurutaro Kataoka. This artist, widely known as an actor, regards Kusatsu as his muse and has created a vibrant museum here. For art enthusiasts, this place is not just a stop on a healing hot spring journey but also a feast of colors and imagination. ■ The Artist's Hot Spring Tale The museum building itself is a work of art - its pure white walls and geometric lines create a modern space, while housing strikingly powerful paintings inside. Kataoka's series of works themed around "onsen" (hot springs) is particularly stunning: bold splashing techniques depict the misty steam of sulfur springs, and intense vermillion represents the burning energy of Yubatake. The permanent exhibition "Four Seasons of Kusatsu" series on the second floor transforms elements like mountain cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and snow scenes into playful abstract images, as if one can hear the resonance between paintbrush and hot springs. ■ Immersive Art Experience The museum features an interactive area called "Atelier" where visitors can try spontaneous creation using the same vibrant paints as the artist. Monthly limited workshops (such as washi paper printing and ceramic painting) require advance reservations and offer opportunities to create unique Kusatsu memories. Don't forget to enjoy a special coffee inspired by the artwork at the rooftop terrace, overlooking the natural canvas formed by Yubatake and distant mountains. ■ Recommended Art Route The museum is just 5 minutes' walk from Yubatake. Here's a suggested itinerary: Morning: Photography of Yubatake's morning mist → Meditation and sutra copying at Kosen-ji Temple Afternoon: Museum exhibition → Sketching at the Tropical Garden Evening: Sainokawara Open-air Bath (museum ticket holders receive a bathing discount) ▌Practical Information ・Address: 486-1 Kusatsu, Kusatsu-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture ・Hours: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30) ・Admission: Adults JPY 1,300 (including special exhibitions) ・Access: 8 minutes' walk from Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal Tips: During the annual "Art Onsen Festival" in November, the museum extends its evening hours, offering a unique experience of viewing artwork projected through hot spring steam. Don't forget to collect the limited edition stamps before leaving, and visit the neighboring "Yusai Washi Workshop" for artist collaboration ukiyo-e postcards. In this museum enveloped by the scent of sulfur, Tsurutaro Kataoka interprets the soul of Kusatsu through his brush - as he says: "Hot springs are the heartbeat of the earth, and art is the echo of that heartbeat."