The phrase “dream trip” can bring all sorts of thoughts to mind but chances are, for many of us, the one thing all these thoughts have in common to one degree or another is the chance to get some much deserved relaxation time. Sometimes in addition to (or maybe even instead of) exotic locales, exciting attractions and historical monuments, what we really want is a place to kick back and enjoy a little self-indulgence, and perhaps nowhere in the world in better for this than a Japanese hot spring resort.
Located throughout the mountainous terrain of Japan, hot springs, known as onsen, are the perfect place to take a soak and let your muscles relax after a long day of sightseeing. Commonly composed of both shared and private baths that are filled with water channeled from volcanically-heated natural springs, each onsen is also unique, and offer a variety of purported health benefits depending on the natural minerals present in the surrounding rocks. Every region of the Land of the Rising Sun has its fair share of hot springs, some small, rustic and inexpensive to visit, other massively elaborate and with expensive amenities, more like a five-star hotel than a hot tub, but no matter which one you choose, chances are you won’t regret it.
Here’s what RealTraveler WorldExplorer had to say about her recent visit to Dogo Onsen Honkan, the oldest hot spring resort town in Japan located a short distance from Matsuyama on the island of Shikoku:
“The Japanese Royal Family and commoners alike have been soaking in the hot spring in Dogo for more than 1300 years. The present building dates back to 1894 and houses two baths in addition to the Royal Family bathing area, the Yushinden. There are a variety of options to enter the facility and enjoy the baths… The first-class treatment (at about $15) includes use of the Tama-no-yu bath, a private lounging area with tea and three Botchan Dango (sweetened rice dumplings), and a yukata and towel. I opted for the royal treatment and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. The bathing is done completely naked and there is a one bath of each kind for men and women. I even had the bath to myself for most of the time. After bathing, I was given a tour of the Yushinden (Royal Family’s Bath) that was only used ten times (only three by an emperor) and has not been used since 1952.
Being a spa town, it is not surprising to see all of the local visitors walking about the streets in yukata, sandals, and tabi (socks with a slit between the big toe and second toe for more comfort when wearing thronged sandals). You don’t have to ask me twice to don ethnic clothing. I wore my yukata and sandals for the duration of my stay in Dogo.” (more…)
Without a doubt, no trip to Japan is complete without experiencing one of these natural spas, including yours! So be sure to plan some relaxation time into your busy itinerary.
Here are a few useful resources to help you plan your trip to cities nearby some of the most popular onsen:
Matsuyama Hotels (Dogo Onsen)
Tokyo Hotels (Atami Onsen, Echigo Yuzawa Onsen)
