I was talking to someone about hot springs recently when I remembered my own experience at hot springs in Japan and Korea.
In Japan, I visited Hakone, a town situated about a hour out of Tokyo by train. I loved Hakone. It was a gorgeous place even though I was caught in cold autumn rain and I much prefer it to Tokyo. It is also a country town famed for its onsen and you know what they say – when in Japan, do as the Japanese do! Well perhaps they don’t say that but you get my drift. I had to see what it was all about 🙂
When you mention Japanese Hot Springs, people usually ask you in a hushed whisper “Is it true you have to be … (pause)… NAKED?” Don’t tell me that thought didn’t cross your mind too! Its never “How was the experience?” “Are the mineral waters truly beneficial?” Its always “Is it true you have to be NAKED?!”
My answer is “Yes. Stark naked. Leave your inhibitions at the door. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200”