Kusatsu Onsen: Chillin' in the Mountain Hot Springs! ♨️🇯🇵

#summervacay A spontaneous decision to visit Kusatsu Onsen during a long weekend turned out to be a surprisingly pleasant escape! I expected massive crowds, but thanks to its high altitude, the weather was wonderfully cool and comfortable. Hot Spring Culture: The "Awaseyu" Method Kusatsu Onsen is famous for its unique bathing method called "Awaseyu" (合汤). I got to experience this fascinating tradition firsthand at Ōtaki no Yu (大滝乃湯), one of Kusatsu's "three hot springs." Awaseyu involves moving through a series of baths with progressively hotter temperatures, allowing your body to gradually acclimate. It's not just about soaking; it's a mindful process of adjusting to the warmth and truly embracing the healing properties of the spring water. It's a deeply relaxing and invigorating experience that gives you a genuine taste of Kusatsu's rich onsen culture. #kusatsuonsen #japantravel #hotsprings #onsen #awaseyu #otaginoyu #japaneseculture #healingjourney #traveljapan