A Japanese hot spring expert is sharing some naked truths about naked bathing in Japan’s famous hot springs, or onsen. Born and raised in Japan but having spent most of his adult life in the US, the expert found himself rediscovering onsen culture when he returned to Japan.

Onsen Culture

Japan’s hot springs are full of invisible tripwires, from nudity to tattoos, along with a host of unspoken protocols in between. The expert became a certified onsen sommelier to help foreign visitors enjoy onsen the way they’re meant to be – a relaxing experience, not a survival test.

The expert has traveled over 1,900 miles to discover the most extraordinary onsen, from Hokkaido to Okinawa. He’s worked in a hot spring inn and is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. Onsen inns run on a schedule that feels almost military-like, with set times for checking in, having dinner, bathing, and checking out.

The Japanese concept of omotenashi, or hospitality, is key to the onsen experience. The inn wants to know exactly when guests will arrive so the staff can be fully prepared to welcome them and serve tea and sweets fresh. Dinner is also served at a set time, so the multi-course meal can be presented in perfect conditions, at the perfect moment.

Naked bathing is a centuries-old tradition in Japan, rooted in health, culture, and social norms. Communal nudity was once normal, and mixed-gender baths were common. However, in the 1870s, Western notions of morality led to a nationwide ban on mixed bathing.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.