Shirahata-no-Yu Public Bath
白旗の湯
A free public bath beside Yubatake, named after the Shirahata spring, which legend says was discovered by Minamoto no Yoritomo. It's a good place to experience the bathing style of local people.
Kusatsu has about 18 free "kyodo-yu" public baths, maintained by neighborhood associations. Shirahata-no-Yu is the one closest to Yubatake and the one visitors visit most often. Its wooden bathhouse is divided into men's and women's sections, and it draws on the Shirahata spring, which legend says was discovered by Minamoto no Yoritomo while hunting. The water is very hot, often exceeding 45°C. Rinse off before entering, and ease slowly into the pool. The bath provides no toiletries or lockers, so bring your own towel and follow local etiquette. Admission is free. Open roughly 5:00–23:00, with breaks during cleaning. It is located on the west side of Yubatake.
Opening hours
Approx. 05:00–23:00 (paused during cleaning)
Nearby sights
- Netsunoyu Yumomi Show
- Gozanoyu
- Yubatake
- Kosen-ji Temple
- Shirane Shrine
- Otaki-no-Yu
- Sainokawara Park
- Sainokawara Open-air Bath