- Kusatsu served as one of the most important post towns in Japan because it was the only station where the two main historical highways, the Tokaido and Nakasendo, met.
- The city's name, Kusatsu, literally means 'grass harbor' or 'stinking water,' though it historically refers to the mineral-rich, sulfurous springs that once bubbled up in the area.
- Despite being a major residential hub today, the area was once an essential maritime transit point for goods traveling across Lake Biwa to Kyoto.
About Kusatsu, Shiga
Kusatsu is located on the southeastern shore of Lake Biwa, serving as a historic junction where the Tokaido and Nakasendo roads converged during the Edo period. The city preserves this legacy at Kusatsu-juku, while modern urban planning is showcased by the revitalization of the former Kusatsu River into the sprawling 草津川跡地公園 de愛ひろば（区間５）. Nature enthusiasts often utilize the area as a base to reach the rugged Konze Alps and the geological formations of Tengu Rock. Families and researchers frequently visit the Lake Biwa Museum to explore the ancient lake's diverse ecosystem. The city balances this historical and natural identity with contemporary art venues like the Shiga Museum of Art.
Highlights of Kusatsu, Shiga
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
Features an extensive aquarium and interactive exhibits documenting the unique biodiversity of Lake Biwa.
Historical places
Walk through a preserved Edo-period inn that served travelers at the intersection of two major national highways.
Natural attractions
Offers a challenging hiking environment known for its unique granite rock formations and panoramic views.
Places of interest
This distinctive rock formation provides a scenic vantage point for hikers traversing the Konze range.
Parks
A creative urban reuse project that transformed a former riverbed into a public park and community hub.
Museums
Houses an extensive collection of modern art with a focus on regional creators and cultural narratives.
Parks
Provides direct shoreline access for birdwatching and enjoying views across the expanse of Lake Biwa.
Top things to do in Kusatsu, Shiga
The 310 highest-rated places in Kusatsu, Shiga, ranked by travellers.
1
Museums
The Lake Biwa Museum is a premier institution dedicated to the natural history and biodiversity of Japan's largest fresh...
2
Museums
The MIHO MUSEUM is located in the Shigaraki mountains and was designed by I.M. Pei to integrate seamlessly with the surr...
3
Museums
The Sagawa Art Museum is defined by its innovative architecture, which features buildings that appear to float on a larg...
4
Temples
Mangetsu-ji Temple is defined by its Uki-midō, or 'Floating Hall,' a wooden structure built on a pier extending directly...
5
Temples
Tachiki-Kannon An’yō-ji is a temple located in Otsu, Shiga, perched on a steep hillside overlooking Lake Biwa. The templ...
6
Parks
Yabase-Kihan Island Park is a large-scale waterfront recreation facility situated on an artificial island in Lake Biwa....
7
Parks
1st Nagisa Park is a lakeside garden located on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa, renowned for its seasonal flower display...
8
Amusement parks
Nango Fisheries Center is a freshwater fishing facility situated along the Seta River in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. The cen...
9
Parks
Biwakobunka Park, situated in the hilly landscape of Otsu, Shiga, serves as a large-scale regional green space dedicated...
10
Temples
Choju-ji, also known as Chojyuji, is a historic Tendai sect Buddhist temple located in the Konan area of Shiga Prefectur...
11
Parks
Kusatsugawa Atochi Park de Ai Hiroba is built on the reclaimed bed of the former Kusatsu River, which flowed above groun...
12
Parks
Omifuji Karyoku Park, located at the foot of Mount Mikami, is primarily known for its natural displays of spring cherry...
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Historical places
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Venues
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Temples
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Museums
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Parks
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Parks
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Natural attractions
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Parks
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Temples
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Parks
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Temples
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Museums
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Parks
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Places of interest
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Places of interest
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Museums
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Kusatsu, Shiga on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Kusatsu, Shiga
Spring (April to May) or Autumn (October to November) for temperate weather suitable for hiking the Konze Alps and visiting lakeside parks.
2 days, allowing time to balance historical walking tours with outdoor activities near the lake and regional museums.
The city is highly accessible via the JR Biwako Line, with local bus networks and rental bicycles serving as the primary methods for reaching lakeside attractions.
The area surrounding Kusatsu Station provides the most convenient access to public transportation and a wide range of dining options.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining costs are generally lower than those in neighboring Kyoto.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 310 curated attractions in and around Kusatsu, Shiga, ranked by traveller ratings.
Lake Biwa Museum is the highest-rated place to visit in Kusatsu, Shiga right now.
The largest category is temples, with 111 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Toshima, Osaka, Kyoto.
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