As a country blessed with natural geothermal energy, no trip to Japan is
complete without an authentic onsen (hot spring) experience. Yet this
world has remained a mystery to many western travellers, who are keen to
take advantage of the onsen's relaxing qualities and healing properties.
Onsen of Japan is your entry into art of Japanese communal bathing.
Featuring listings for more 2500 onsens across the country, authors
Steve Wide and Michelle Mackintosh have selected out the very best
places to enjoy this quintessential Japanese experience - including
traditional 7th-century baths, historic wooden buildings, open-air
mountain springs, rustic neighbourhood baths, and big city super santos
(aquatic centres). Alongside vivid descriptions and beautiful images,
each listing includes a checklist with important travel information,
such as price range, whether same-sex or mixed bathing is available,
whether English is spoken, and if tattoos are accepted. A detailed
introduction at the front of the book includes a guide to etiquette,
onsen rules, customs and quirks, as well as information on different
water types and their healing benefits. The authors also offer tips on
how to take a bath like a local, bathing in different seasons, the best
places to take a foot bath (ashiyu) or hand bath (teyu), and where you
can cook your own onsen egg. Slip off your clothes and ease yourself
into the world of the Japanese onsen. One thing is for sure, taking a
bath will never be the same again.
