Experiencing the Onsen for the First Time

A visit to a Japanese onsen can be a striking departure from Western bathing practices. Many travelers report initial anxiety about communal nudity, especially in private or outdoor hot spring pools. Yet, for locals, bathing naked in these mineral-rich waters is an everyday activity, steeped in centuries of tradition.

Geothermally heated, onsen water is rich in minerals and historically associated with purification rituals. References to these baths appear as early as the 8th century in the Kojiki, one of Japan’s oldest historical texts. Originally reserved for the elite, onsen evolved during the Edo period (1603–1868) into social hubs, similar in function to Roman baths. Today, Japan hosts over 3,000 onsen, ranging from local town facilities to large resort complexes, all regulated to maintain safe water temperatures between 34°C and 42°C (93–107°F), ensuring both comfort and hygiene.

Understanding the Difference: Onsen vs. Sentō

Travelers often confuse onsen with sentō, but there are notable differences. While onsen rely on naturally heated geothermal water, sentō are urban bathhouses that use heated tap water. Sentō historically served communities without private bathrooms, providing a vital public service. Both require full nudity, but their cultural contexts differ.

Bathhouse expert Stephanie Crohin, originally from France, explains that the initial discomfort is common among first-time visitors. “At first, I was shy about undressing in front of strangers,” she recalls. “But everyone else was simply focused on washing or relaxing, and soon I did too.”

Cultural Etiquette in Japanese Bathhouses

Onsen and sentō operate under a clear set of social conventions, designed to ensure a clean, respectful environment. Key guidelines include:

• Undressing fully in designated changing areas before entering baths.

• Thoroughly washing and rinsing at shower stations before soaking.

• Keeping towels out of the water and using small towels only for modesty outside the bath.

• Maintaining quiet and respectful behavior, including avoiding splashing or loud conversations.

• Tying up long hair to prevent it from entering the bath.

Tattoos, historically associated with organized crime, were often prohibited. However, many resorts, including Hoshino Resorts, now allow tattoos in the spirit of cultural inclusivity. Visitors should check local rules in advance but can generally expect a welcoming atmosphere.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Navigating your first onsen or sentō visit can be simplified with a few practical steps:

• Remove shoes at the entrance and place them in a locker.

• Pay the entry fee, with optional charges for saunas.

• Bring a small towel into the bath area.

• Wash thoroughly at the shower stations before entering the baths.

• Rinse off soap completely and avoid placing towels in the water.

• Follow local cues if signage is unclear — observation is often sufficient.

Crohin emphasizes that the experience is as much cultural as it is recreational. “It’s normal to feel hesitant at first,” she says. “But the focus in these spaces is on relaxation, not judgment.”

Soaking Amid Snow and Silence

For many visitors, the serene environment becomes the highlight. Under snowy skies in Hokkaido or Nagano, the contrast of cold air and steaming water enhances relaxation. Bathers often sit among friends, families, or strangers, sharing quiet conversation or simply enjoying the therapeutic warmth. This atmosphere fosters a unique sense of community and personal reflection.

Health and Wellness Benefits

Onsen are more than cultural experiences; they are recognized for health benefits. Soaking in mineral-rich water can improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and support skin health. Roten-buro, or outdoor baths, allow visitors to enjoy natural surroundings, combining physical relaxation with mental well-being.

The Takeaway for International Travelers

First-time bathhouse visitors can approach the experience with openness and curiosity. By following simple etiquette, respecting local customs, and observing other bathers, the initial discomfort quickly fades. Many leave with a sense of freedom, acceptance, and appreciation for a longstanding cultural tradition.

Hoshino Resorts, a chain originating as a family-run ryōkan in 1914, encourages international guests not to worry about nudity or etiquette. “Japanese people are not focused on others’ bodies,” says resort representative Chanel Cai. “The hot spring experience is about your own moment of relaxation.”

Visiting an onsen or sentō can be transformative. Beyond the physical warmth, it offers a window into Japanese social culture, an appreciation for mindful living, and a rare environment where body image concerns recede into the background.

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Source: CNN – Yes, you have to get completely naked: What it’s really like to visit a Japanese hot spring

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Who Drank All the Matcha? How Tourism Is Draining a Japanese Town’s Beloved Green Treasure

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping the finest matcha in Japan, you might want to hurry to Uji — before the tins run out.

Uji: Japan’s Matcha Capital Under Pressure

Just a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto, Uji is famous worldwide for its matcha — that vibrant, finely powdered green tea that’s whisked to frothy perfection. But recently, the town has found itself at the center of a matcha frenzy. Demand, driven by soaring global popularity and a record-breaking influx of tourists, is far outstripping supply. Locals are beginning to worry: is their treasured tradition being stretched too thin?

The Morning Matcha Rush

10:00 AM is a big moment in Uji. That’s when matcha shops swing open their doors. Arriving just before the hour, I head straight to Nakamura Tokichi Honten — a historic tea shop that once supplied the emperor and now stands as one of the most prestigious matcha purveyors in Japan. The place is already buzzing. Despite arriving early, I find myself 35th in line, clutching a numbered ticket.

Inside, the shelves are packed with every imaginable matcha product — from ice cream and sweets to matcha-infused noodles. But I’m after the real prize: tins of pure matcha powder. That’s when the scene gets wild. A shop worker tries to restock, but as soon as a tin hits the shelf, it’s snatched up by eager tourists. Some even reach right into her basket to grab cans before they’re even placed down. Shouts in Japanese go unnoticed amid the chaos.

Before long, the precious tins are gone. A woman near me exclaims in an American accent, “It’s gone. All the matcha’s gone.” And it’s barely 10:05 AM.

Matcha Mania: Tourists Stockpile, Locals Watch Uneasily

I manage to grab a small 30g tin, unsure if I’ve gotten the premium stuff or something milder. Meanwhile, a man ahead in line carries off a staggering 30 tins, proudly admitting he just dropped 250 euros on tea. Unlike some other shops, Nakamura Tokichi doesn’t limit how much you can buy — meaning some visitors hoard huge quantities.

Around town, it’s the same story. Tsujirihei Honten, another respected shop, advertises dozens of matcha varieties but has only a handful left in stock. Many stores are sold out or limiting purchases, but demand remains overwhelming.

Why Is Matcha So Popular — and So Scarce?

Matcha’s global popularity has exploded in recent years, thanks to its antioxidant-packed health benefits and its trendy, photogenic appeal on social media. Japan produced over 4,000 tons of matcha in 2023 — triple what it did in 2010 — while tourism hit record highs, with nearly 37 million visitors in 2024 alone.

But producing authentic Uji matcha, especially the highest-grade ceremonial kind, isn’t easy or quick.

Tomomi Hisaki, general manager of Tsujirihei, explains that top-tier matcha comes from tea leaves grown in shade to develop that rich, umami flavor. But the trade-off is a smaller harvest — if the plants get too little light, they simply won’t grow well. Then there’s the stone mills, which grind leaves into powder at a painstakingly slow rate — about 400 grams in eight hours per mill. That’s only enough for around 13 tins!

Adding more farms could help, but new crops take years to mature. So for now, supply is stuck far behind demand.

Tradition vs. Trend: The Cultural Cost of Matcha Tourism

This scarcity only adds to matcha’s allure — especially for tourists eager to grab premium ceremonial powder. But locals and tea experts worry about what’s being lost.

Simona Suzuki, president of the Global Japanese Tea Association, notes that some ceremonial matcha is now being used in lattes and smoothies — a far cry from the traditional tea ceremony. This shift threatens the availability of top-quality matcha for those who want to enjoy it authentically.

“It’s important visitors consider the intended use before bulk buying,” Suzuki urges.

Why Hoard Matcha? A Question of Taste and Tradition

Watching tourists stockpile tins worth hundreds of euros, I wondered: what happens to all that matcha? Likely, many use it as a trendy ingredient in sweet drinks or baked goods rather than savoring it in the traditional way. And for many, distinguishing between the grades is tricky — plus, matcha loses its freshness sitting unopened for months.

Still, it’s tempting. When you’re far from home in the birthplace of matcha, resisting the urge to grab as much as possible can feel impossible.

A Hopeful Message From Uji’s Tea Masters

Hisaki remains optimistic. “It’s wonderful that Japanese matcha is spreading worldwide,” she says. “I want people to enjoy it for health, ceremonies, and cultural heritage.” But she asks visitors not to hoard or resell the precious tea.

If you can’t snag ceremonial matcha, don’t despair. Uji offers plenty of other delightful tea experiences — from vibrant sencha and earthy gyokuro to hojicha, a roasted tea with nutty, chocolatey notes that many locals prefer over matcha.

Matcha, Beyond the Powder

Uji feels like a tea-themed wonderland. At Nakamura Tokichi, I enjoy tea-infused soba noodles and a luscious matcha parfait. Souvenir shops offer matcha fettuccine, curry, and even matcha gyoza, takoyaki, and ramen.

At Tsujirihei, I buy sweetened matcha powder designed to dissolve easily in water — perfect for a quick matcha latte. Sitting back with my warm, vibrant drink, I think: it might not be emperor-worthy, but it’s just right for me.

In the end, the matcha shortage in Uji reveals a bittersweet truth: as the world falls in love with this ancient tea, the delicate balance between tradition and tourism hangs by a thread. But with mindful appreciation, there’s hope that Uji’s green treasure will continue to enchant visitors for generations to come.

Source: BBC – Who drank all the matcha? How tourism drained a Japanese town

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When you step into the serene grounds of Katsuo-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most beloved landmarks, you can’t help but notice the sea of Daruma dolls scattered across the hillside. From the towering figures peering out from between tree branches to smaller versions perched on altars, these iconic red dolls are impossible to miss.

Located in the scenic Minoh National Park, just an hour outside Osaka, Katsuo-ji Temple has long been associated with success and victory. The temple’s history stretches over 1,300 years, and for the past century, it has been home to thousands of these talismans, which have become a cherished symbol of perseverance and good fortune across Japan.

Katsuo-ji is affectionately known as the “Daruma Temple”—a name that dates back about 100 years, when the temple began selling these lucky charms. The Daruma doll, a vibrant reminder of Japan’s culture and traditions, represents Bodhidharma, the 5th-century monk who founded Zen Buddhism. Legend has it that Bodhidharma meditated for years so intensely that he lost his limbs, an image captured in the doll’s rounded, weighted form that always returns upright when toppled—symbolizing resilience and unwavering determination.

For centuries, Katsuo-ji has been a spiritual retreat for emperors, shoguns, and ordinary people alike, all seeking blessings for victory in battles, exams, and business ventures. Even today, locals flock to the temple before major events, such as exams or important meetings, hoping for a boost of luck.

Unlike other lucky charms that promise wishes granted with little effort, the Daruma doll encourages an active role in achieving one’s goals. According to Marco Fasano, an Italian tour guide and founder of Tanuki Stories, the process of acquiring a Daruma is an interactive ritual that goes beyond simply making a wish.

“First, you think of a goal you want to accomplish, then you write your wish on the doll and paint one eye. You purify the Daruma with incense before taking it home with you,” Fasano explains. The key to the Daruma is constant reflection: every time you look at it, you’re reminded of your goal and asked, “What can I do today to get closer to achieving this?” The second eye is filled in only once the goal is achieved—a powerful symbol of hard work paying off.

Fasano’s own experience with the Daruma was deeply personal, having visited Katsuo-ji before taking his Japanese Language Proficiency Test. He emphasizes that the process isn’t just about passive hope—it’s about taking action.

“When you see so many people returning to the temple with completed goals, it’s a tangible reminder that you too can achieve your dreams if you put in the effort,” he says.

The Daruma doll’s distinct look—a round body, scowling face, and wide eyes—holds a wealth of symbolism. It’s not just about resilience. The doll’s thick eyebrows and beard represent cranes and turtles, animals revered for their association with longevity and good fortune in Japan. The bright red color further amplifies its auspicious significance, as red is considered a color of protection.

Beyond Katsuo-ji, Daruma dolls are also deeply embedded in other parts of Japan, including nearby Kyoto’s Hōrin-ji Temple, known as “Darumadera.” However, the heart of Daruma production lies in Takasaki, a town in the Gunma Prefecture, where about 80% of the dolls are crafted. The tradition there goes back over 200 years, with the Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple starting the practice of selling them over two centuries ago.

At Katsuo-ji, visitors can choose between two types of Daruma: the Kachi-Daruma, or “winning Daruma,” for those setting specific goals, and the Daruma-Mikuji, or “fortune-telling Daruma,” unique to this temple. Instead of painting eyes, those who choose a Daruma-Mikuji ask a question before selecting their doll, which contains a scroll offering guidance to help them along their journey.

Despite the influx of millions of visitors to Japan each year, Katsuo-ji remains a somewhat hidden treasure. While Osaka is a bustling hub for tourists, the temple sees far fewer visitors compared to the likes of Asakusa Senso-Ji in Tokyo, which attracts around 30 million people annually. Katsuo-ji’s annual visitor count hovers between 800,000 and 1 million, with a significant portion of those visitors coming from overseas.

Fasano, who has lived in Osaka since 2023, believes that the city and its surrounding areas deserve more attention from tourists. “Osaka is often underrated. People think there’s nothing to do, but there are so many unique spots, like Katsuo-ji, that offer a richer cultural experience,” he says.

To attract more visitors and offer a deeper connection with the Daruma tradition, Katsuo-ji introduced a creative “stamp rally” in May 2024. This activity encourages visitors to explore the temple grounds, collecting stamps at six checkpoints that form an image—a metaphor for goal-setting, one step at a time.

For visitors, purchasing a Daruma at Katsuo-ji adds a layer of meaning to the experience. “Buying a Daruma here feels more powerful than picking one up in a random shop,” Fasano reflects. “It’s a reminder that achieving your goals is a journey—and you have to be intentional about each step.”

Daruma dolls have evolved into one of Japan’s most beloved souvenirs, symbolizing not just luck, but a call to action and perseverance. At Katsuo-ji, surrounded by the whispers of centuries-old prayers and the encouragement of countless others who have made their wishes, the Daruma doll becomes much more than a simple token. It serves as a companion in the quest for success—a reminder that while luck plays a part, true achievement requires effort, reflection, and determination.

Source: CNN – Daruma dolls are one of Japan’s most popular souvenirs. But where do they come from?

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The Ultimate Powder Paradise

I find myself deep in the trees, thigh-deep in powder, struggling through the snow. Instead of riding my board, I’m carrying it, muttering about taking the wrong line. Meanwhile, just 20 feet below, Chris Laurent from Paris has his own dilemma.

“I can’t find my ski,” he exclaims, both laughing and swearing as he digs through a growing mound of fresh snow.

These are the challenges that skiers and snowboarders dream of—and pay to experience.

Welcome to Niseko, the powder capital of Asia, and some say, the world.

Japan has long been revered as a mecca for powder skiing. However, in recent years, warming winters, declining snowfall, and a shrinking number of local skiers and snowboarders have threatened its once-thriving resorts.

But this season brought renewed excitement. With the La Niña weather pattern—a period of cooler temperatures—returning, industry insiders anticipated massive snowfalls reminiscent of Niseko’s legendary past. Their hopes were justified. Early in the season, Niseko shattered a 68-year-old record for December snowfall.

After a brief lull in January, February saw an influx of Siberian cold fronts sweeping across the Sea of Japan, dumping fresh powder on Hokkaido’s most famous ski town.

Jia-Rong Chen, a former tech employee from Tokyo, came to Niseko for the season and experienced the town’s signature snowfall firsthand.

“It snows a lot—truly the best quality snow in Japan. Early in the season, I went up every day. But by mid-season, I was almost spoiled. I’d had enough powder already,” he admits.

While snowfall may fluctuate throughout the season, Niseko remains consistent compared to other resorts. Even as Japan’s aging population and declining ski culture have led to hundreds of resort closures, Niseko continues to thrive.

Unlike other struggling resorts, Niseko has seen a surge in foreign visitors and luxury developments. High-end hotels like Setsu Niseko—winner of the World’s Best New Ski Hotel at the 2023 World Ski Awards—and Muwa Niseko are setting new standards for hospitality. Michelin-starred Japanese chefs are also investing in the region, ensuring that Niseko remains not just a ski town but a high-end winter destination.

A key factor behind the area’s snow reliability is the local belief that Mount Yotei—a towering peak resembling Mount Fuji—is a “snow catcher,” ensuring consistent snowfall. Climatologists agree that Niseko’s geography makes it uniquely positioned to receive dry, light powder when Siberian cold fronts collide with the warm moisture of the Sea of Japan.

Despite its consistent snowfall, experts remain cautious about the long-term effects of climate change.

“December temperatures were below normal, but January was abnormally hot. La Niña is rapidly decaying,” says Professor Tomonori Sato, a meteorological researcher from Hokkaido University. “In my hometown of Niigata, the snow is very wet and heavy. But in Hokkaido, it remains dry and light—ideal for skiing.”

Hokkaido’s unique climate, surrounded by water, fuels the weather systems responsible for its legendary powder. While global warming remains a concern, most experts believe Niseko’s appeal will endure.

Before the pandemic, Niseko was often referred to as an “Aussie town,” with Australians making up about 50% of visitors. Today, that figure has dropped to just over 20%, but overall visitor numbers have surged, with more travelers coming from North America, Europe, and beyond.

“The biggest shift for us has been the rise of American visitors,” says Patrick Ohtani, COO of Luxe Nomad, which manages high-end properties across Asia. “In 2017, U.S. visitors accounted for only 619 guest nights. This year, we’ve booked 4,823 nights—an increase of 404%. Revenue from U.S. travelers has jumped by 130%.”

The introduction of the IKON pass, which grants skiers seven days of unrestricted access to Niseko United, has contributed to this growth. More American skiers, even those with access to world-class resorts back home, are now flying halfway around the globe to experience Niseko’s unparalleled powder.

A stroll through Hirafu, Niseko’s most upscale ski village, reveals just how much the town has transformed. Preening influencers snap selfies in luxury snowsuits, while others sip champagne in a Louis Vuitton-designed yurt. Michelin-starred food trucks serve dumplings, while upscale steakhouses charge $170 for premium cuts.

Heli-ski operators cater to affluent thrill-seekers, and luxury concierge services offer everything from private chef’s tables to exclusive snowmobile tours.

Gone are the days when Niseko was simply called the “Vale of the East” or the “St. Moritz of Japan.” Today, it’s a world-class destination in its own right.

“I’ve been in Niseko for 10 years, and I don’t think we’ve ever had a bad snow year,” says Ohtani. “We’re incredibly lucky—Siberian winds pick up moisture, hit a high-pressure system, and the snow just starts falling. Compared to other ski destinations, our altitude plays a major role.”

For now, Niseko remains bulletproof—an evolving, luxury-laden haven for powder seekers from across the globe. And as long as the snow keeps falling, the legend of Niseko will continue to grow.

Source

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Ginzan Onsen, a picturesque hot spring town in Japan, is taking steps to combat overtourism by limiting access to day trippers during the peak winter season. Known for its stunning snowy landscapes, the town has become a hotspot for travelers, especially those seeking traditional Japanese onsen experiences amidst scenic views.

A Popular Destination Under Strain

Located in the Yamagata region, about 260 miles north of Tokyo, Ginzan Onsen attracts approximately 330,000 visitors annually. The town, which dates back over 300 years, is famous for its charming Edo-period buildings draped in snow, inspiring many, including the creators of Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away.

However, the influx of tourists, particularly in winter, has led to tensions among visitors and local residents. In particular, disputes over prime photo spots and parking spaces have created chaos in the otherwise tranquil town.

Rising Tensions Over Photo Opportunities

According to Ginzan Onsen’s official website, the growing number of tourists has resulted in angry confrontations over the best photo spots. This has led to traffic violations, and visitors trying to find easier ways to secure the perfect shot, often disregarding the rules. The situation has become unsustainable for the town, and the onsen has acknowledged that its “vague management” contributed to these problems.

New Ticketing System for Day Trippers

To address these challenges, Ginzan Onsen is implementing new restrictions starting January 7. Visitors planning to enter the town after 5 p.m. will be required to purchase a ticket, priced at 1,150 yen (around $7), which includes bus rides. Visitors without hotel reservations will not be allowed entry after 8 p.m. Those arriving by car will need to park at a nearby tourist center and use shuttle buses to reach the town.

Hiroyuki Ishii, from the Ginzan Onsen Overtourism Measures Project Office, explained that day trippers who drove themselves often became trapped on snow-covered roads, leading to traffic congestion and even blocking access for emergency vehicles. There have also been incidents where visitors nearly fell into the river after clashing with others while trying to take photos.

Ginzan Onsen Joins Nationwide Overtourism Efforts

Ginzan Onsen’s decision follows a growing trend across Japan, where popular tourist destinations are implementing measures to curb overcrowding. The country has seen a record influx of tourists, with 33 million overseas visitors recorded by November this year, surpassing the 31.9 million visitors in all of 2019, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.

Other locations, including Fujikawaguchiko at the base of Mount Fuji and Himeji Castle, have also implemented controls due to overcrowding. In Fujikawaguchiko, a black net was erected in May to block the view of a convenience store near a popular Mount Fuji photo spot. The net was removed in August once the tourist rush subsided. Similarly, places like Mount Fuji and Himeji Castle are considering raising entry fees to manage the increasing number of visitors.

A Growing Concern for Sustainable Tourism

While Japan’s tourism boom is a positive development for the economy, it has raised concerns about overtourism, which threatens the sustainability of some of the country’s most beloved landmarks. Ginzan Onsen’s new restrictions serve as a proactive approach to maintaining the town’s charm and ensuring that visitors can still enjoy the unique experience of this historic onsen town without overwhelming the local community.

Source

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