Goza no Yu Onsen - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma

Nestled in the heart of Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's premier hot spring towns, Goza no Yu (御座之湯) stands as a testament to over 1,000 years of bathing tradition. Reconstructed in 2013 with meticulous attention to Meiji-era architectural details, this historic bathhouse overlooks the iconic steaming Yubatake (hot water field) that serves as the symbolic center of Kusatsu.

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What sets Goza no Yu apart is not just its stunning cedar and plaster construction or its mineral-rich waters—it's the inclusive approach to tattoos that makes this cultural treasure accessible to international visitors. Here, you can experience authentic Japanese bathing culture without the anxiety of potential rejection, soaking in the same therapeutic waters that have healed travelers for centuries.

• Dual Therapeutic Springs: Experience two distinct hot spring sources (Yubatake and Bandai) in one facility, each with unique mineral compositions and health benefits
• Historical Architecture: Immerse yourself in authentic Meiji-period design with traditional cedar beams, wooden bathing vessels, and natural stone pools
• Yukata Experience: Rent traditional Japanese cotton robes to stroll around Kusatsu town, creating perfect photo opportunities and cultural memories
• Prime Location: Situated directly across from the famous Yubatake, offering spectacular views from the relaxation lounge
• Affordable Luxury: Enjoy one of Japan's top-rated onsen experiences at a fraction of the cost of overnight accommodations
• Cultural Authenticity: Bathe in Kusatsu Onsen, consistently voted Japan's #1 hot spring destination for over 16 consecutive years

Stepping into Goza no Yu's baths is like immersing yourself in living history—with a therapeutic twist. The facility houses two distinct baths that alternate between men and women daily, ensuring all guests experience both healing water types. The Yubatake Spring delivers extraordinarily acidic sulfur waters (pH 2.1) renowned for their antibacterial properties and effectiveness against skin conditions, while the Bandai Spring's chloride sulfate composition excels at relieving joint pain and muscle stiffness.

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Be prepared for authentically hot water—temperatures range from 42-46°C (107-115°F)—a hallmark of Kusatsu's famous onsen. The locals proudly maintain these traditional temperatures using the "yumomi" water-cooling technique (demonstrated daily at nearby Netsunoyu). The mineral-rich waters leave your skin noticeably softer, with many visitors reporting relief from chronic conditions after just a single visit. For tattooed travelers, this represents a rare opportunity to experience one of Japan's most revered onsen traditions without accommodation concerns.

✈️ From Tokyo: JR Joetsu Shinkansen to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station (75 min) → 🚌 Bus to Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal (25 min) → 🚶 3 min walk

🚆 From Karuizawa Station: 🚌 Direct bus to Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal (70 min) → 🚶 3 min walk

🚌 From Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal: 🚶 3 min walk toward Yubatake

🚶 From Yubatake: 1 minute walk (directly across from the hot spring field)

No reservations are required for general admission to the public baths, though the private hall should be booked in advance, especially during peak seasons (weekends and holidays). English-speaking staff can assist with yukata rentals and bathing questions.

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🌐 Website: https://onsen-kusatsu.com/gozanoyu/en/

📞 Phone: +81-279-88-9000

📍 Address: Oazakusatsu 421, Kusatsu Town, Gunma Prefecture 377-1711, Japan

⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM–9:00 PM daily