Sainokawara Open-Air Bath
Immerse yourself in one of Japan's largest open-air baths, surrounded by nature's beauty in Kusatsu Onsen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Cleaner water, fewer crowds
Sainokawara Open-Air Bath
Best Time
Cleaner water, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in one of Japan's largest open-air baths, surrounded by nature's beauty in Kusatsu Onsen.
"Absolutely loved Sainokawara Open Air Onsen – we enjoyed it so much, we went twice in one day!"
Bring Your Own Towel!
No towels provided. Essential for drying off after your soak. :towel:
Locker Coin Needed
Remember a 100 yen coin for the locker. :coin:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Open-Air Bath
Main bathing area
Soak in one of Japan's largest open-air baths, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Scenic Park Stroll
Sainokawara Park
Wander through the park, especially beautiful with seasonal foliage or winter snow.
Winter Wonderland Soak
Main bathing area in winter
Experience the magic of bathing surrounded by snow, with occasional soft snowfalls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Flow
Timing is Key for Cleanliness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Towel!
No towels provided. Essential for drying off after your soak. :towel:
Locker Coin Needed
Remember a 100 yen coin for the locker. :coin:
Rinse First, Soak Later
There are no showers. Rinse your body thoroughly before entering the main pool. :shower:
Temperature Varies
Water gets cooler further from the source. Find your perfect spot! :thermometer:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel!
No towels provided. Essential for drying off after your soak. :towel:
Locker Coin Needed
Remember a 100 yen coin for the locker. :coin:
Rinse First, Soak Later
There are no showers. Rinse your body thoroughly before entering the main pool. :shower:
Temperature Varies
Water gets cooler further from the source. Find your perfect spot! :thermometer:
Day vs. Night
Daytime offers scenic views, while night has illuminations. Consider both! :flashlight:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sainokawara Open-Air Bath is praised for its immense size and scenic, natural setting, offering a unique bathing experience. Visitors appreciate its tattoo-friendly policy and the magical atmosphere, especially in winter. However, some find the water cleanliness inconsistent and note the lack of individual showers and rinse-off areas.
"This is my second favourite onsen in the area. There is only one pool area so the temperature selection is limited. The further you move away from the source the less hot it is, but it's still hot everywhere you go because it's just one pool.
Important to note that there is no shower or rinse off area. I highly recommend to go on a day with a mix of sun and rain. This is my favourite onsen when it's raining."
Juan Manzo
"It was my first time visiting here! I love the wider space here but the water wasn’t that clean and a lot of mosses. I don’t think taking bath during the midafternoon is a good idea. It’s bit hot and feeling slimy due to seaweed there. Since tons of people were there, water wasn’t not clear so recommended to go there early in the morning.
Water is a bit salty and a cool experience for sure but there’s no shower so be aware of that!
Other than that, enjoy!
Cheers 🥂"
Mr. No Tengo Dinero
"Amazing onsen with a scenic view.
There is only a locker room and a large bath (no individual showers or washing areas). I recommend preparing a 100 yen coin for the locker."
- Ymg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
It's a pleasant 15-minute walk from the town center, making it easily accessible. You'll pass by scenic spots on your way.
Yes, Sainokawara Open-Air Bath is known to be tattoo-friendly, which is a significant plus for many travelers.
Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan's top hot spring towns, accessible by bus from major cities like Tokyo. The journey offers scenic views.
Yes, the bath is located within Sainokawara Park, which offers walking trails and beautiful natural scenery.
Absolutely! Winter visits are highly recommended, as the onsen is surrounded by snow, creating a magical experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically purchased on-site. While online booking options might be limited, you can usually pay with cash or card upon arrival.
The bath is generally open throughout the day, with special mixed-gender sessions often held in the evening. It's best to check local listings for exact times.
Yes, there is an admission fee. It's advisable to have cash on hand, though some sources suggest card payments may be accepted.
Advance booking is generally not required for Sainokawara Open-Air Bath. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
Sainokawara features a single, large open-air pool. The temperature varies across the pool, with hotter sections closer to the water source.
🎫 💧 Onsite Experience
The primary amenities are the large open-air bath and locker rooms. There are no individual shower or rinse-off areas. Bring your own towel and toiletries.
Water cleanliness can vary. Early mornings are recommended for the clearest water. Midday visits might encounter more natural elements like moss.
The water is generally hot, with temperatures varying across the large pool. It can be quite intense, especially near the source.
While photos are generally allowed in the park area, be mindful of other bathers' privacy within the bathing area itself.
You'll need a swimsuit to wear in the bath. Bring a towel for drying off afterwards.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kusatsu Onsen town offers numerous restaurants and cafes serving local specialties. You can find options before or after your bath.
It's generally not permitted to eat or drink directly within the bathing area to maintain cleanliness. There are usually designated areas outside the bath.
Kusatsu Onsen offers a variety of Japanese cuisine, including local soba noodles and dishes featuring regional ingredients.
📸 📸 Photography
The surrounding Sainokawara Park offers beautiful natural backdrops. The bath itself can be photographed from the park's edges, respecting privacy.
Yes, the evening illuminations create a magical atmosphere perfect for photography. Be prepared for lower light conditions.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful light. Winter snow also provides a unique photographic opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Relaxation Seekers
The vastness of the bath allows for personal space, even when busy. The natural surroundings, particularly in winter with snow or during autumn foliage, provide a romantic backdrop. Remember to bring your own towels and be prepared for the hot water to fully relax and unwind together. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Bathing Experience
Many visitors recommend bringing a 100 yen coin for the lockers provided. The experience is particularly lauded during different seasons. In winter, the onsen is surrounded by snow, and soft snow can even fall from overhead structures, creating a truly unique and picturesque bathing environment.
Conversely, the park surrounding the bath is beautiful with seasonal foliage, offering a scenic backdrop. Some visitors suggest that a day with a mix of sun and rain can enhance the atmosphere. Navigating Kusatsu Onsen Town
Sainokawara Open-Air Bath is conveniently located about a 15-minute walk from the town center, making it an easy addition to a day exploring Kusatsu. While the focus is on the onsen experience, the town offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving regional specialties to cafes.
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