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Mark Kennedy's avatar

Excellent summary of one of my favorite things to do in Japan!

Not to jump on your bandwagon, but some of your readers might like to learn more about the health benefits of onsen (https://realgaijin.substack.com/p/news-flash-japanese-onsen-hot-springs).

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Shawn Brooks's avatar

It is literally THE best thing about this country. Thanks for the link! I might go back later tonight and link it in my article.

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Mark Kennedy's avatar

I agree that hot springs are a real treasure of Japan. That's one reason why I now live in Oita, where there are thousands of them. Feel free to use the link.

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Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

I loved this post! I was nearly there with you but I think I was there with you on the hot and cold. Though never in Japan in California, both north and south, there are hot springs that connect or flow nearby cold gold rushing rivers. In CA always clothing optional which always means no one wears any. The rush -from cold to hot-exhilarating. Love your posts. Keep ‘em coming.

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Shawn Brooks's avatar

I grew up near some of those springs! Love that nature provides abundantly everywhere.

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Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

So great. Summers were the best.

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Igor's avatar

Nice. I normally add “sauna high component “ to onsen or sento experience (where available). 10 min in sauna, 5 min in cold water ( ideally below 15), repeat 2-3 times. High!

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