Kusatsu/Ikaho

Kusatsu/Ikaho

The Kusatsu/Ikaho area is located in the northeastern region of Gunma Prefecture, and is blessed by an abundant natural environment, including the Agatsuma River and Mount Haruna. The area is also home to the "Three Hot Springs of Jomo."
One of these is Ikaho, which appears in the Man'yoshu collection of poetry dating from the 5th through the 8th century, and which has been the object of adoration by many painters and poets. Next is Kusatsu, which boasts the largest flow in all of Japan, and which is praised for its ability to heal any ailment other than love. The third is Shima, which is said to "heal 40,000 ailments" (the characters for "Shima" mean "40,000"), and has been designated as Japan's first national spa and health resort.
Other unique hot springs are scattered throughout the area, making it the destination of many visitors seeking healing and rest since ancient times. Hiking and fishing in and around the mountains, rivers, and lakes are also recommended for those who want to enjoy the abundant natural environment to the fullest.