ネイティブが教える英会話のジェムスクール☆Teachers☆

Taking a public bath in Japan is a simple and pleasurable act, that both relaxes and rejuvenates your body and mind.
There are two basic types of baths: (1) Onsen - an actual hot spring bath with water used from the natural source of the earth's
geothermal hot water sources, which are abundant in Japan; (2) Sento - the second source is regular water heated by the bath
personnel to various temperatures to sooth your body.

All prefectures in Japan have onsens with Beppu in Kyushu holding the distinction of having the most. The procedure is simple:
enter the bath, pay the fee, enter the locker area, take off your clothes, and enter the bath. Once in the bath you must sit at the
available showers and water spigots to rinse and clean your body. Usually soap, shampoo and rinse are available. Then after
cleansing your body, you may enter any of the available baths. Usually they vary in temperature from super hot, hot, warm, luke
warm and cold. Each temperature will affect and sooth your body in various ways.

Entry costs vary according to location and amount of baths and amenities. Usually the costs are under 1000 yen for daily use,
but occasionally it may be a bit more. The only restrictions are generally no tattoos are allowed, and you must bring your own
towels (one large to dry off and one small to use to scrub your body OUTSIDE the bath - never, ever take the small towel
into the bath itself. This is a bit NO NO!) Other than that you may freely enter and exit the baths as you wish to relax and
replenish your body.

If you have the time or interest, I highly suggest you try the Japanese bath system. It is a great way to boost your body and
mind. ENJOY!