My husband and son took off this morning with some friends for some "boy time," leaving me to my own devices. After an afternoon of shopping, I headed to Toshimaen Garden Spa (Toshimaen Niwa No Yu) with a friend. It is a local onsen that offers indoor and outdoor mineral pools for soaking, as well as saunas and hot stone "beds." This one is much more sedate that the Ooedo Onsen Monogatari that we usually go to, as it isn't themed and is much smaller. But it is close to our house and very nice.
I have always found onsen to be relaxing places, so I decided it would be a fabulous way to spend the evening.
I've heard that they are very strict about their "no tattoo" rule, so I was careful to cover mine up with tape before I arrived. Although I don't understand the continued discrimination regarding tattoos, I am grateful mine is small enough to not cause too much fuss.
After paying the entrance fee (which is half price starting at 6pm, only costing me ¥1295 or $12), I entered the changing area where I disrobed. I spent the next hour and a half soaking in a variety of pools inside and outside, as well as taking a breather in the sauna.
It is immediately noticeable that children under 14 are not allowed at this onsen, resulting in a very quiet atmosphere. The women chat in regular voices, but there isn't the normal buzz that kids bring. I personally don't mind either volume, as I'm used to kid noise, but it is a noticeable difference.
Although there is a co-ed area here (bathing suits required in that area) as well as hot stone beds, I did not partake in these. I was perfectly happy relaxing in the women's only areas.
Now I will go to bed, happily exhausted, and a bit pampered. I never wonder why onsen are so popular in Japan - they leave you feeling relaxed and blissful.
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