Bath time is hugely important in Japan, and arguably even more so when it’s of the public and natural variety — the soothing volcanic water and communal element making it a key feature of tourism as well as everyday life.
But while many hotels boast beautifully designed baths with absolutely stunning views, the back-to-basics approach of a tub and some companions clearly takes some beating.
john says
I wonder whose Christmas present that was?
With a beer to share just perfect!
I imagine the photographer poised behind a not too well trimmed bonsai :o).
Lee says
Yeah, basic it may be, but they were as happy as could be.
Haha. I actually just stood out in the open and took it. They didn’t care in the slightest. In fact the fella beckoned me in, but I made my excuses. Would have been something of a squeeze to say the least!
June says
Looks like he is fully clothed, with sweatshirt and pants! Was he just passing by and decided to jump in and join the fun?
Lee says
Haha, now that would have been something! But nah, he was wearing a wetsuit. They had all been fishing and were warming up/relaxing in the naturally hot water.
GenjiG says
It may not look like much but I’m still jealous, wish I had a bathtub like that!
Lee says
I know what you mean. A soothing hot spring bath everyday. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Willy says
I feel compelled to post a link here.. one of my old favorites … backwood onsens galore! This indeed would be a noble pursuit in retirement!
http://www5e.biglobe.ne.jp/~gonbe/onsen-toppage.htm
Lee says
Brilliant. Thanks a lot for that. A noble pursuit indeed!
June says
Great expression on the man’s face. Wonderful capture!
Lee says
Thank you!
winnie says
Awesome!!
They are enjoying their bath time! Love their expressions. 🙂
But I still think it too cold for me and shy to bath in public.
Lee says
They certainly were, Winnie.
Same here, but unless us, shy wasn’t one of their worries. In fact on our way back, the old lady was happily drying herself off in an equally public spot.
Freddie says
Belated congratulations on a classic photo!
( Although I have been checking your blog for a few years, I must have missed this one when it was first published. By chance I saw it in the recent newspaper article via Twitter)
Out of interest, is this onsen open to the public? If it is, do you happen to remember the name and location?
Thanks for all your great work.
Lee says
Thank you very much!
It’s actually not an onsen, simply an old bath that has hot spring water running into it. A place for them to relax and warm up after diving in the sea nearby.
I took the photo in Atami. Although where exactly I don’t recall. Well, except it was by the sea!
Freddie says
Thanks for letting me know.