Do you like soaking in the bathtub? Perhaps Japanese people are the most bath-loving people in the world. According to a survey, about 90% of Japanese like taking a bath, 80% take a bath everyday and 70% soak in the bathtub.
Why Japanese like taking a bath so much? It may be related to the fact that Japan is hot and humid in summer and cold in winter. Other reasons may include there are over 2000 hot springs throughout Japan because of its volcanic nature. As a result Japanese people are familiar with taking a bath, not only for washing their bodies but also for relieving fatigue and stress.
Oedo Onsen Monogatari is a hot-spring themed park featuring old Tokyo which is great for beginners who would like to experience hot springs in Tokyo. As soon as entering, we change our clothes to yukata or light cotton kimono to soak up the atmosphere of old Tokyo. Men and women are separated in the bathing area. There are several kinds of bathes including open-air bath and sauna.
After enjoying hot springs, try restaurants. They offer mainly Japanese cuisine like sushi, tempura and noodles at around 1000yen. Shaved ice is perfect after taking a hot bath. As most of this facility is located indoor, it is a good option on rainy days.
By the way, another hot spring is located next to Oedo Onsen Monogatari. It is for dogs only and charges from 2625yen to 5250yen according to the size of the dogs. More expensive than human, actually…
Oedo Onsen Monogatari (URL)
*They offer special rate until March 31, 2011. Extra late-night fee will be added after 2am. For their normal rate, visit their website.
General admission until March 31, 2011
Adult: 1980yen (2180yen on Sat, Sun & holidays)
Child: 900yen
Admittion after 6pm until March 31, 2011
Adult: 1480yen (1680yen on Sat, Sun & holidays)
Child: 900yen