Onsen ho!

Japanese style room complete with futon at an onsen hotel. Onsen are the Japanese public baths which are often (as in this case) fed by natural hot springs. I stayed here for a weekend with my Supervisor and his wife (they were across the hall). It was really fun and relaxing. When I came I was pretty wary of the dreaded "public baths". Having visited numerous baths now, I can honestly say that I love going to the public bath. This weekend was just eating, bathing, reading, playing cards, bathing, eating, bathing... It was very relaxing. To anyone planning to visit Japan, I encourage you to give it a try at least once. Of course the first time you might be a bit freaked out and not enjoy it as much, but after you get used to it... Who knows, you might even enjoy it. ;) The floors of the room are tatami mat, which is made from woven straw. When you enter the hotel you remove your shoes (right at the entry-way) and get slippers on. In your rooms you remove your slippers, except for the bathroom which has another set of slippers.