13 July 2010 - A trip to Japan is not complete without a regular visit to the onsen or bath house. Japanese baths are fantastic, although it takes a while to get used to the routine. Japanese are strict about their rules and etiquette, and it's in the bathhouse that I am most worried about making a 'barbarian' mistake. Maybe, it is the nudity that makes me feel vulnerable, because the first thing to do is to strip absolutely naked. After walking into the bathing area (I hate the slippery floor), it is easy to find a stool and the scrubbing, splashing and polishing process can begin. Only when absolutely - and I mean absolutely - clean, the dip in the hot bath is allowed. Soak forever. All stiffness, stress and tension slowly ebbs away. Perfect.
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