ShigaTravel

Kusatsu River Site Park de-ai Plaza (Area 5) (草津川跡地公園 de愛ひろば)

Flow of the course

Previous stop: Experience the History of the Post Town in One of Japan's Largest Main Inn Buildings Where Feudal Lords Stayed

About 15 min from the previous stop

About 60 min here

About 15 min to the next stop

Next stop: Pay Respects at an Ancient Shrine Greeted by Sacred Deer Statues to Conclude Your Day

About this spot

A rare elevated park nationwide, created by redeveloping the site of the former Kusatsu River, which once flowed higher than the surrounding city. The "de-ai Plaza" section near JR Kusatsu Station features expansive lawns and seasonal flower gardens, with the appeal of playing in an open, airy space while looking out over the surrounding cityscape. The park includes a café and shops, making it convenient for snacks and a quick rest. Playing where a river once flowed creates a wonderfully strange feeling, and it's sure to spark conversations like "A river used to flow here long ago!" After touring the museum and main inn, this is a perfect place for children to stretch their legs and burn off energy.

Tips

About 5 minutes' walk from the east exit of JR Kusatsu Station, and also accessible on foot from Kusatsu-shuku Honjin along the former Tokaido route. Free entry and casual drop-in visits welcome; bring a picnic mat for comfortable snack breaks on the grass. Slopes are provided, making it accessible by stroller. The café and shops are convenient for picking up snacks and drinks.