Kosenji Temple
A historic Buddhist temple guarding Kusatsu Onsen, offering stunning views of steaming hot springs and a picturesque pagoda.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Kosenji Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Buddhist temple guarding Kusatsu Onsen, offering stunning views of steaming hot springs and a picturesque pagoda.
"A serene spot with breathtaking views of the Yubatake and a beautiful pagoda, perfect for reflection."
🚶♀️ Easy Access Options
Opt for the shorter rear staircase or the road route if the main steps are too challenging. Parking is available at the top.
📸 Nighttime Photography
The temple is well-lit at night, offering excellent opportunities for stunning photos of the pagoda and town.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Five-Story Pagoda
Atop the temple grounds
A striking five-story pagoda offering panoramic views of Kusatsu town and the steaming hot springs.
Yubatake Views
From the temple grounds
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the iconic Yubatake (hot water field) and the steaming hot springs below.
Temple Grounds & Staircase
Temple entrance and grounds
Explore the ancient temple complex and ascend the iconic stone steps for a rewarding experience.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Kosenji Temple
Accessing Kosenji Temple
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Access Options
Opt for the shorter rear staircase or the road route if the main steps are too challenging. Parking is available at the top.
📸 Nighttime Photography
The temple is well-lit at night, offering excellent opportunities for stunning photos of the pagoda and town.
♨️ Adjacent to Hot Springs
Kosenji Temple is right next to Kusatsu's famous hot spring town, perfect for a combined visit.
🙏 Serene Reflection
Find a peaceful spot away from the main foot traffic for quiet contemplation and to soak in the town's atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Access Options
Opt for the shorter rear staircase or the road route if the main steps are too challenging. Parking is available at the top.
📸 Nighttime Photography
The temple is well-lit at night, offering excellent opportunities for stunning photos of the pagoda and town.
♨️ Adjacent to Hot Springs
Kosenji Temple is right next to Kusatsu's famous hot spring town, perfect for a combined visit.
🙏 Serene Reflection
Find a peaceful spot away from the main foot traffic for quiet contemplation and to soak in the town's atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Kosenji Temple to be a charming and historically significant site, offering beautiful views of Kusatsu Onsen and its iconic Yubatake. Its accessibility, especially with alternative routes and parking, is appreciated, and the serene atmosphere, particularly at night, makes it a memorable stop. Some may find the main staircase a bit challenging, but the overall experience is highly regarded.
"The legend of Kosenji Temple is related to the discovery of Kusatsu Onsen. It is said that in 721, the monk Gyoki discovered Kusatsu Onsen and founded the temple here. In 1200, the lord of Kusatsu built the main hall of Kosenji Temple.
The main hall looks like a building that has been renovated in recent years. The Shakado Hall next to it was built in 1703. It is a small temple with an ancient flavor, guarding this hot spring town. The main hall of Kosenji Temple enshrines Yakushi Nyorai, and is known as one of the three major hot spring pharmacists in Japan, along with Arima Onsen Onsenji Temple in Kobe and Yamanaka Onsen Ioji Temple in Kaga."
Antony Li
"Nice medium sized temple that is located directly beside the main town square center. There is a long visible staircase but there is a shorter one directly behind the entrance at the top that is not visible from there bottom. There is an easier but more lengthy road route that goes around the side. If you drive there is a parking lot at the top. There is a nice 5 story pagoda at the top as well."
Cory Sakai
"Kusatsu Attractions Recommendation ⛩️ Kusatsu Onsen Temple
A 3-day, 2-night trip to Kusatsu Onsen
Apart from staying at a hot spring hotel and enjoying the accommodations and meals, I highly recommend spending a day exploring the Kusatsu Onsen area.
A must-visit spot is Kusatsu Onsen Temple, located on the mountaintop.
From there, you can take in the breathtaking views of Kusatsu and admire the beautiful hot spring fields.
With the combination of the five-story pagoda and the snowy scenery, it feels like a picturesque postcard."
Chelsea Pun (思思賢 Chill My Babe)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kusatsu Onsen, where Kosenji Temple is located, from Tokyo by train or bus. Direct buses are a convenient option with free Wi-Fi. +1
Yes, there is a parking lot available at the top of the temple grounds, making it accessible for visitors arriving by car.
You can climb the main stone staircase, use a shorter, less visible staircase behind the entrance at the top, or take a longer, easier road route.
Yes, Kosenji Temple is located near the main town square and is a must-visit spot when exploring Kusatsu Onsen. +1
Many accommodations in Kusatsu Onsen are within walking distance. For example, some hotels are just a 3-minute walk from the temple.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kosenji Temple is open 24/7 and generally free to enter, allowing for visits at any time.
The temple complex is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it accessible for early morning or late-night visits.
There is no admission fee to visit Kosenji Temple, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
Yes, the temple is well-lit at night, making it safe and easy to navigate for nighttime visits and photography.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, it's always a good idea to check local listings for any special events or ceremonies that might be taking place during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The five-story pagoda, the panoramic views of Yubatake, and the temple grounds offer excellent photographic opportunities. The well-lit complex is also great for night shots.
Photography rules can vary within temple grounds. It's advisable to look for signage or ask temple staff if you are unsure about photographing inside specific halls.
Early mornings and late evenings offer softer light and fewer crowds. The temple is also beautifully illuminated at night.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and populated areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the pagoda and expansive views. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography at night.
🎫 ♨️ Onsen Experience
Kosenji Temple is intrinsically linked to Kusatsu Onsen, with legends stating the monk Gyoki discovered the hot springs and founded the temple here. It's a guardian temple for the hot spring town.
Absolutely! Kosenji Temple is located right in the heart of Kusatsu Onsen town, famous for its numerous hot springs and bathing facilities. +1
The Yubatake is the main hot water field in Kusatsu Onsen, where hot spring water is cooled and channeled. Kosenji Temple offers excellent views of it. +1
Yes, Kusatsu Onsen town has many public bathhouses and private onsen hotels where you can experience the therapeutic waters.
Kusatsu's hot springs are known for their high acidity and sulfur content, believed to have healing properties. The water output is one of the largest in Japan.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the temple itself is serene, the proximity to Kusatsu Onsen town means families can easily transition to more engaging activities. Many hotels offer family-friendly amenities, and the town has shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. The unique experience of seeing the steaming hot springs at Yubatake is also a highlight for children. Consider visiting during daylight hours for easier navigation and a more relaxed pace.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the town of Kusatsu Onsen, which offers various affordable dining options and public bathhouses. Opting for direct bus travel from Tokyo can also significantly reduce transportation costs compared to trains.
📸 Photographers
The temple grounds provide ample opportunities for capturing atmospheric images, from the ancient temple buildings to the winding stone steps. The well-lit complex at night transforms into a magical scene, perfect for long-exposure shots and capturing the essence of the onsen town after dark. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive views and a tripod for low-light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend and History of Kosenji Temple
Further development occurred in 1200 when the lord of Kusatsu commissioned the construction of the main hall. Adjacent to it stands the Shakado Hall, dating back to 1703, adding layers of history to the complex. This small temple, with its ancient ambiance, stands as a testament to centuries of devotion and its role in the spiritual landscape of this renowned hot spring town. It is recognized as one of Japan's three major 'hot spring pharmacists,' alongside temples in Arima and Kaga.
Kosenji Temple is also known for its beautiful five-story pagoda, a significant architectural feature that adds to the temple's visual appeal and spiritual significance. The pagoda, along with the temple buildings, offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese Buddhist architecture and provides a serene environment for visitors seeking reflection and peace amidst the bustling onsen town.
Experiencing Kusatsu Onsen from Kosenji Temple
Beyond the temple itself, the surrounding area is a haven for onsen enthusiasts. You can easily wander through the charming streets, visit public bathhouses, or indulge in a stay at a traditional ryokan. Many accommodations are within a short walking distance, and some even offer shuttle services. The direct bus routes from Tokyo also make it convenient to combine a visit to Kosenji Temple with a relaxing onsen experience.
For those looking to immerse themselves fully, consider trying the 'Yumomi' ceremony, a traditional method of cooling the hot spring water by stirring it with wooden paddles. This cultural practice is a unique aspect of Kusatsu Onsen and can be experienced in various locations around town, often near the Yubatake. After a day of exploring and soaking, returning to the temple grounds for a peaceful evening view or a quiet moment of reflection is a perfect way to cap off the day.
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