Japan is “blessed” in the fact that it sits astride a mass of volcanic activity, all along its main islands. From a true “Spa” point of view, it’s a match made in heaven when you combine the traditional Japanese Ryokan (Inn) with an Onsen (hot spring). There are thousands of Ryokan in Japan, and most form the basis of affordable, comfortable accommodation in true Japanese tradition. Many have their own Onsen to relax in and it is these that form the whole basis of Spa relaxation in Japan, going back to the roots of the European Spas of centuries ago. Hence, hands on treatments are not really the order of the day, though the more modern eclectic premises do now offer Eastern and some Western treatments. There are over 2,500 spots where the hot springs break the surface, but even these totally natural springs are subject to strict government legislation before they can deemed good enough to be used as “Onsen”.

The water must break the surface at over 75º Fahrenheit and contain a minimum amount of minerals helping to soothe or even cure rheumatoid problems, skin problems, gout and beyond any doubt, exhaustion. The whole ceremony surrounding bathing is a rich part of Japanese history, some saying the first avid bathers were farmers keen to clean themselves after a hard days work in the fields. Whilst the Japanese have become more accepting of other cultures, there is still a charming amount of etiquette involved in staying at a Ryokan, with or without Onsen. We will provide you with a complete guide to the right way to do things. That is part of Japan’s charm – discovering ancient ways that are still practised here in the 21st century, and you will feel enriched and educated once you have experienced this traditional way of life and relaxation that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the world.

You can go to one of our specially chosen Ryokan for a long retreat to really lose yourself, or why not use them exclusively instead of hotels on your way around the country on a tour of ultimate discovery. The reason these Inns appeared in the first place was to accommodate the Lords and Samurai who had to travel to Edo (Tokyo) in the 17th Century to show their allegiance to the Shogun and as you stay under the roofs of these historical guest houses, you’ll feel the history permeating the walls. These are special places, and need to be experienced to be believed.

* Please call us for more details of our Japanese resorts *

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