Travel

By CarterWittMedia

Japan's misfortune of sitting atop one of the most seismically active areas of the world does come with an upside: the thousands of natural hot springs (onsen) scattered across the country. Some of the best hot spring resorts are in areas of incredible natural beauty, making them prime travel destinations.

The practice of bathing in hot springs began over a thousand years ago, and there are few experiences more quintessentially Japanese than sitting outside stark naked and soaking in an onsen with a group of amiable strangers.

Onsen come in all shapes and sizes. Some are more like health spas, and provide a variety of wellness activities in addition to their healing waters. Others are simple, no-frills establishments that cater to locals who stop by after work for a scrub and a soak. A lot of Japanese inns also boast their own onsen. With a little research you'll be able to find one near your city, and your travel agent can offer package trips that include transportation to a resort if you are looking for an overnight stay.

When traveling the countryside, just look for the red onsen symbol, which looks something like an upside-down jellyfish. Onsen are a godsend for campers and the perfect way to end a day of hiking or skiing.

Onsen Etiquette

Bathing in Japan is a refined art, and there are a few rules you should bear in mind when you hit the onsen.

• Most baths will provide a small "humility" towel with which to cover your nether regions. Unless otherwise specified, do not wear clothes in the bath. And don't put the towel in the bath, either!
• Don't wash clothes in the bath.
• The waters of some onsen will tarnish silver jewelry, so it's best to remove your hardware before entering.
• The baths are for soaking only. There will be a separate washing area where you should clean yourself before getting into the tub. Do not use soap in the bath.
• Though the majority of onsen are segregated, there are some unisex ones (konnyoku), especially in isolated areas. In such cases, you may notice that bathing etiquette doesn't appear to outlaw staring.

Festival SpotlightsSapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo, Hokkaido)
Every winter about two million people head to Hokkaido, braving the unforgiving weather to see the hundreds of snow statues and ice sculptures that spring up throughout the city during the Sapporo Snow Festival (yuki matsuri). One of Japan's largest winter events, the festival is immensely popular, and draws a fair number of international visitors. If you have been hoping to visit Hokkaido and are looking for a good time to go, this is it: it makes for a great midwinter holiday, especially if you can mix in a few days of skiing or snowboarding at one of the nearby resorts. Be sure to make travel arrangements early, though, since local hotels are often fully booked months in advance.

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