Onsen - a day in thermal waters!

By Flavia Lo Buono Leite

Onsen (温泉) is the Japanese term for natural hot springs. Japan its a country with high volcanic activity and because of that it has a large number of natural hot springs. It is believed that the hot springs have restorative properties, able to cure and relieve pain, prevent diseases and keep the body and skin healthy.

The hot springs can be found throughout the country in indoor or outdoor facilities. These last are the most popular destinations, because they are true refuges that councils the beautiful natural scenery of Japan to the pleasures of a relaxing bath.

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Very popular throughout Japan, bathing in an onsen is also a unique experience for foreigners. Traditionally, and usually frequented by Japanese, foreigners who want to attend an onsen should be aware of some rules of utilization thereof:

1 Baths are separate for men and women.
2- It is not allowed to wear bathing suits or any clothes (like bikini, panties, bra, underwear, etc.). Its important that you feel comfort about being naked around strangers. For the japanese, community bath is such a common habit that no one keeps staring at others, which makes you feel more comfortable being naked in front of other people.
3 - Before entering the hot tub, you need to wash up yourself. In onsens showers are side by side and you should take your shower sitting on a stool.

4 - It is not allowed to wash clothes.
5- The entry of people with tattoo is prohibited.

You must be wondering why?
      Tattooing in Japan is generally associated with marginalized people and misconduct. In the past, the tattoo was a way to identify the prisoners and was used as a punishment, because when prisoners left the prison they were marked with a paint whose name was gei-kei. This type of tattoo is called irezumi, but the practice was abolished since the Meiji Era. Recently, the tattoo has been used by criminal groups or persons associated with the Japanese mafia - the Yakuza. Knowing a bit of history, we can comprehend the reasons why the tattoo is not well seen by the Japanese society. But do not worry, today there are onsens that accept tattooed people.

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By watching the rules described above, experience an onsen is very pleasant!

Finally, remember that the water temperature is very hot, the average of 36 degrees. My advice is not to stay long in the hot tub, especially if you have low blood pressure, and drink lots of liquids to hydrate.

Here in Yamanashi, large regions of hot springs are Yumura, near the Shosenkyo Valley; Masutomi, therm with the largest number of radio Japan; Nishiyama, located in a mountainous region with beautiful view; Shimobe known as secret thermal water of Lord Shingen; Isawa, with its modern facilities; and Kawaguchiko, spa near Mount Fuji.

Come enjoy this experiencet!
This is my tip for those who want to relax and take care of their body and mind!