Hot Springs AR Lake House Have the Vacation of Your Dreams

Onsen Hot Spring Bath in Japan

Natural hot springs or onsen are almost everywhere and very popular across Japan. Every region of the country has its share of hot springs and resort towns. Some of the resorts are large and you may find a busy locker room and large shower area without privacy, however getting into the actual tub, after the washing and such, is a very nice experience. A sauna and cooling tub with bubbles may also come with the package. I usually go later at night and get some time to myself in the bath. The whole experience reminds me of Roman times described in text books but with the Japanese way as a model. There are many types of hot springs, distinguished by the minerals dissolved in the water. Different minerals provide different health benefits, and all hot springs are supposed to have a relaxing effect on your body and mind. Some of these springs are so popular that coffee tea and other foods are made with the exotic tasting water. Hot spring baths come in many varieties, indoors and outdoors, gender separated and mixed although mixed sex onsen or baths are more uncommon these days. Many hot spring baths belong to a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), while others are public bath houses. An overnight stay at a hot spring ryokan is a highly recommended experience to any visitor of Japan. At the onsen though you may find geothermally heated spring water, artificially heated but authentic mineral water or a mixture of the two treated for safety. Just to be careful here, some Japanese ...