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Japanese
spas or onsen
How
to relax and recharge yourself at a spa
By Renee Bajor
Onsens are popular in Japan. Almost all Japanese partake of this at least once a week.
Onsens are a combination of a bath and
Jacuzzi. Since bathing is involved, no clothing is allowed at
onsens. This makes some foreigners feel uncomfortable. But the relaxing feeling you get by resting in a hot pool of water far outweighs any embarrassment that you may feel.
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 You will notice that the Japanese focus their eyes downward and do not look at you. You should reciprocate, as it is rude to stare at others in any culture. This is a time to get away, to relax, and to contemplate about your life.
Some onsens serve meals and sake (Japanese rice wine) as well as providing a nice relaxing environment. They are usually found in hotels and tend to be rather expensive, ¥ 8000 to 12000 (approximately US$ 75 to 110). |
HOW TO PROPERLY USE THE ONSEN
You should be prepared with a
towel and washcloth. You will be provided with soap and shampoo at the onsen. Many Japanese bring their own supplies anyway which include a towel, soap, shampoo, and washcloth or body scrub brush.
First you pay at the door, usually it costs 500 to 1000 yen depending on the facilities. Some are outdoors in a natural environment and these are called
odenburo. Others are indoors. Most have separate rooms for male and female guests, although a few are co-ed.
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Then you proceed to the changing room where you remove all of your clothing. You can hide your private parts with the
wash cloth, if you feel uncomfortable. You continue to the bathing area where there is a faucet, stool, bucket, soap, and shampoo. You thoroughly wash yourself and shampoo your hair. You can shave, if you need to, as well.
Usually the Japanese wash thoroughly twice before continuing on to the hot water pools. This is like a Jacuzzi so take care not to bring any soap or dirt into the pool with you. Many people use this at the same time.
Get out and bathe again. Then return to the hot pool of water. You can do this as many times as you wish. Sometimes there are different pools with the temperature ranging from boiling hot to cool. Other times there is only one, hot pool.
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If you are new to Japan, go with a Japanese friend first and do as told to avoid embarrassing moments. You might feel a bit uncomfortable before actually going there , but being among all these naked people you will be just fine.
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