In Japan, hot springs are not just a way to relax and unwind, but also a cultural experience that is deeply rooted in everyday life. For those who are new to Japan's hot springs, understanding the proper onsen etiquette and dress code is the first step in this journey of mind and body.
One day in early spring, Kobayashi and her friends plan a trip to a famous hot spring area in northern Japan. Before leaving, Kobayashi deliberately researched various etiquette about Japanese hot springs, especially about clothing, and found that it was very different from what she expected.
The most basic rule in Japanese hot springs is that you must completely remove your clothes before entering the bath, and only a small towel can be carried. This can be a bit uncomfortable for many first-time experiencers. However, it is this closest to nature that allows people to relax more and experience the comfort and tranquility of the hot springs more deeply.
When Kobayashi arrived at the hot spring inn, the first thing he was exposed to was the culture of wearing yukata. It is common for hot spring inns to provide guests with yukata as a dress to wear when moving around the inn. Wearing a yukata not only makes you feel relaxed, but also makes the whole hot spring experience more authentic and traditional.
While wearing a yukata, Kobayashi learns how to properly tie his belt and how the right side of the yukata should be covered on top of the left side, a symbolic distinction between life and death in Japanese culture. The process of wearing a yukata is not only a respect for traditional Japanese culture, but also a unique experience on this trip.
Upon entering the locker room, Kobayashi and his friends followed the rules, storing their clothes in the provided cabinet and entering the bathing area with only a small towel. In the bathing area, they thoroughly wash their bodies, which is an essential step before entering the hot springs, ensuring that the hot springs are clean and hygienic.
Soaking in the warm hot spring water and surrounded by misty natural scenery, Kobayashi feels relaxed and happy like never before. At this time, she understood that the rules of dress and etiquette in Japanese hot spring culture are not a constraint, but a way to better integrate into the experience and enjoy the gift from nature.