Konoha: A High-Value Choice for Kusatsu Onsen

Part of the Kyoritsu Group, "Konoha" is like the "time management master" of Kusatsu Onsen! With daily gender-swapping large baths and three free private hot springs, you can enjoy four distinct bathing experiences in just one day. 🌿 "Value for Money" Secrets of the Large Baths ▪️ Exciting Gender-Swapping Pools The facility features two main baths: "Aomomiji no Yu" and "Momiji no Yu." At midnight, the gender usage rights are swapped. On the day of check-in, start with the outdoor pool of "Aomomiji" (surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for daytime), and the next morning, switch to the rock bath area of "Momiji" (the heated stone chairs are incredibly relaxing). Don’t forget a waterproof phone case to capture the swaying tree shadows while soaking! ▪️ Seasonal Outdoor Pools In autumn, open the wooden door of "Aomomiji no Yu" to find a pool filled with floating red leaves. In winter, "Momiji no Yu" offers an outdoor pool with snowflakes dancing in the steam under the lights. After bathing, use the "onsen facial steamer" provided by the inn for skincare—your skin will instantly glow! 🛀 "Exclusive Experience" of Private Hot Springs ▪️ Three Free Private Baths to Choose From The three private hot springs—"Takego," "Matsukaze," and "Umeage"—each have unique styles. "Takego" is surrounded by bamboo, perfect for quiet meditation. "Matsukaze" features driftwood chairs, ideal for listening to the wind through pine needles. "Umeage" offers plum blossom reflections in spring and a cozy heater in winter. During the day, there’s almost no waiting, but during peak evening hours (7:00 PM–9:00 PM), expect to wait for 3–5 groups. It’s recommended to visit the large baths first to avoid the crowd. ▪️ Water Temperature Adjustment Tips Private hot springs are generally 3°C warmer than the large baths. If it feels too hot, open the "cold water valve" (blue button on the wall) and adjust to around 40°C for a more comfortable soak. After bathing, enjoy a chilled Yakult provided by the inn for a refreshing hot-and-cold sensation! 🍳 Breakfast and Nearby Delicacies ▪️ A Hearty Brunch for ¥1,600 The buffet breakfast includes Japanese set meals and Western dishes: freshly baked toast with Kusatsu honey, onsen egg rice with golden yolk, and sweet fresh pineapple that tastes like it’s been candied. Don’t miss the "grated yam soba," a light and refreshing dish perfect for waking up your taste buds after bathing. ▪️ "Dessert Hunting" in the Onsen Town A 5-minute walk from the inn to "Yubatake," where you must buy "onsen yokan" (¥350/box)! The red bean flavor is rich but not overwhelming, and the matcha flavor has a subtle sulfur aroma (oddly intriguing but addictive). Stop by the "Kusatsu Milk Ice Cream" stand and add a serving of "shiratama mochi"—the chewy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy milk flavor. 📍 Practical Tips for Your Stay ✅ Shampoo and conditioner are provided in the baths, but it’s recommended to bring your own shower puff (the inn only provides small soap bars). ✅ The private hot spring entrances have "in use" indicator lights. If the red light is on, do not enter to respect others’ privacy. ✅ After check-out, you can use the free "coin-operated luggage lockers" (located to the right of the inn’s entrance) to explore the onsen town hands-free. Summary: "Konoha" is truly a paradise for hot spring enthusiasts! With affordable prices, diverse bathing options, a hearty breakfast, and nearby delicacies, it’s perfect for indulging in Kusatsu’s essence in just one day. Next time, I’ll try the "late-night private hot spring"—turn off the lights and soak while stargazing. Just imagining it gives me goosebumps from the romance!