When the city is too busy...so I take a break at an authentic Japanese onsen.

After hanging around the Namba area, eating, drinking, traveling for almost 5 full days, walking in and out of sneaker shops, famous stores, specialized stores, big stores, small stores, I went in to check in case I could find the pair that customers were waiting for, but it still didn't work out until I finally had to retreat and take a stand first. Physical exhaustion began to accumulate. Tiredness begins to ask

While looking at things. The Japanese people passing by dress very nicely. Full fashion feel that no one will give in to. Each pair of shoes they wear while walking is strong, whether it's a rare model or a special collab. As you walk, you secretly stare at people's feet. It's not fun to watch. But inside I was secretly a little tired

So I decided to move away from the busy shopping area. Come stay in the quiet suburbs of Osaka. Change the atmosphere a bit. I still don't know what to do. But luckily, the staff at my new accommodation introduced me to a place that I had never tried in my life…Ikkyu Onsen, a 100% natural hot spring where real Japanese people like to soak

First time soaking in an onsen in Japan

While listening to the employee speak, he still hesitated. But when he said that there was a Day Trip coupon that included roundtrip transportation, it was all done. along with suggesting that just be on time when boarding the bus One trip, everything covered. Decided to try

The car will pick us up at the appointment point. And when we got there, we were taken into an onsen that had a calm atmosphere that was truly Japanese. All around are Japanese people. Come as a family, as a couple, as a group of friends, or as a single person like me. Most of them are of working age and middle-aged people

Throw your shyness aside. Then soak it to feel comfortable

When we entered, small towels were handed out. according to Japanese style Bathing areas are separated for men and women. With signs showing very clear steps. From taking a clean shower before soaking. Do not put clothes into the pond, do not swim, etc.

It was quiet, still, and peaceful… until we felt that Japanese people don't come to bathe. He came to reset my life

So what should newbies do?

Take it all off (yes, really everything) and take the small towel he gave you. Then walk to sit and "take a shower first" in the shower zone. There are small chairs, shower, soap, shampoo ready. You have to sit in the shower, don't stand because it will splash on other people. It is considered very bad manners in Japan

Take a shower and wash yourself thoroughly. Then slowly go into the pond. There are many types of ponds, both hot and cold, outdoors, and at different temperatures. Etiquette for using them is: do not swim, do not speak loudly. Do not put the towel into the water.

For anyone with large or obvious tattoos. You may not be allowed to enter. The best way is to ask in advance

A new and refreshing feeling

In the beginning, it was awkward, a bit shy. Because I've never really had it. But when I started moving the pond continuously From hot springs of various temperatures, cold springs, and outdoor ponds where the breeze blows gently. The shyness melted away along with the hot steam in the water. All that was left was relaxation that spread throughout the whole body

After soaking until satisfied. I stopped by the food zone. and cold drinks Or order a glass of Japanese beer, it's worth a try. Everything was just right, not over the top, not luxurious, but it was deep and meaningful. The atmosphere is very comfortable. No need to hurry. No rush. No one will mind how long you can sit and chill.

It may not change your life immediately. But the onsen really helps wash away fatigue from the body. And most importantly...it makes you know that some Japanese culture You have to try it to understand