Kosen-ji Temple
草津山光泉寺
An old temple on the stone steps beside Yubatake, traditionally said to have been founded by Gyoki and enshrining the Medicine Buddha, guardian of the hot springs. It offers a fine view over Yubatake.
Kosen-ji is traditionally said to have been founded in 721 by Gyoki, a renowned monk of the Nara period. Its principal image, the Medicine Buddha, is regarded as the guardian of Kusatsu Onsen. A bright vermilion stone staircase beside Yubatake leads up to the main hall. The grounds also include the Shaka Hall, a bell tower and the "Yuzen Jizo" statue, which honors those who have died in the hot springs. From the steps you can look down over Yubatake and the rooftops of the spa town, and the snow scenes in winter and the night views are especially beautiful. Entry to the temple grounds is free. It's about a 2-minute walk from Yubatake, and it's often visited together with Shirahata-no-Yu and Atsu-no-Yu.
Opening hours
Open all day for visits
Nearby sights
- Gozanoyu
- Shirahata-no-Yu Public Bath
- Netsunoyu Yumomi Show
- Yubatake
- Shirane Shrine
- Sainokawara Park
- Otaki-no-Yu
- Sainokawara Open-air Bath