Yubatake: The Heart of Kusatsu Onsen

Yubatake is more than just a hot spring; it's the beating heart of Kusatsu Onsen. Located in the center of town, this unique 'hot water field' is where over 4,000 liters of naturally heated spring water gush out every minute. The water, sourced from the nearby Mt. Shirane, is a scalding 70 degrees Celsius as it emerges from the ground. The Yubatake serves a practical purpose: cooling the hot spring water before it's piped to the town's numerous bathhouses and ryokan. This is achieved through a network of wooden troughs and channels where the water flows and cools. The process also allows for the collection of 'yunohana' (湯の花), mineral deposits that form on the wooden conduits and are harvested and sold as bath salts. Historically, the Yubatake has been the focal point of Kusatsu's development as a premier onsen destination. The tradition of using wooden channels to manage and distribute the hot spring water dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Even today, the Yubatake retains its cultural significance, drawing visitors who come to witness the spectacle of the steaming waters and experience the therapeutic benefits of Kusatsu's hot springs. Around the Yubatake, visitors can find nameplates of famous people who have visited Kusatsu, including historical figures like Minamoto no Yoritomo. The area is surrounded by ryokan, shops, and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere. At night, the Yubatake is illuminated, offering a magical and otherworldly experience.