The Japanese and the Art of going Dip Dip Dip !

In many ways, Japan still remains a mystery to the rest of the world.
For here, the ancient and the modern not only coexist but seem to do so in great harmony. The land of the rising Sun is as comfortable with its bullet trains and cutting edge technology as it is with Zen and Geishas.
Japan has a unique culture, with its own peculiarities and quirks that seem natural to the Japanese but intrigue and surprise all foreigners.
Through my 'Japan and I' series, I attempt to talk about the Japan I saw and experienced!

Previous posts on the series can be read Here. 

Today we talk about the Japanese and the Art of Going Dip Dip Dip. But is it really about what you think? Read on to find out ! 

If you have come here looking for a post about Japan and the art of making Tea you are in for a disappointment. This post is about another dip dip dip that the Japanese like to indulge in. The Hot water bath! 

The Japanese take their baths very very seriously. I am sure so does the majority of the human population who wants to maintain a certain level of hygiene, but the Japanese make soaking in the humble bath tub almost an art form.

The first time I stayed in a Japanese home was during my university trip to Japan. The orientation that was given to us about the Homestay had one whole hour dedicated to Bathroom etiquettes.

The Japanese don’t shower in the mornings but most of their evenings are devoted to spending time in the tub where they unwind and try to get into a Zen like state of Nirvana. Japanese homes usually have just one bathroom so the whole family shares the same bath tub. The tub is filled with piping hot water and then one by one the family members go in to have their bath. Now if you are a bumbling foreigner, this is where you need to be careful. Instead of plonking yourself straight into the Bath Tub, you have to get under the shower first, scrub the grime of the day off you and only then get in the tub. 

The catch here that once you are out of the tub, you are not supposed to let the water out. Most foreigners are fooled into thinking that their host has solicitously filled the tub only for them without realizing that the same water will be used by all family members. The Japanese bath tub is not used for bathing but strictly for soaking oneself, so using soap while you are in the tub is also a No No. 

There is no dearth of water in Japan but the logic is since a person has already cleaned himself under the shower the water is not contaminated by the germs of his body so the same water can be used by the next person.

Also, the Japanese like their water really hot. I have known people to get in a Japanese Bath humming to themselves and then jump out like a scalded cat the next moment.

For someone like me who doesn’t even swim because I can’t stand being in the same water as so many people, the mere thought of getting into bath water used by others was petrifying. Luckily, the guest is always offered the chance to use the Bath first and needless to say I never refused!

Japan also has a large number of natural hot water springs or “Onsen” as they are called in Japanese. Most of the onsens are in the mountains or in areas with spectacular natural beauty and this is where majority of the ‘Onsen Ryokan’ or ‘Japanese style Hot spring Inns are located. The Onsen Ryokan is a marvellous concept where the Japanese have combined their love for nature and a hot water bath. They are considered as peaceful and tranquil getaways where one goes to indulge oneself in the greatest form of relaxation known to the Japanese –Soaking in Hot Water.

The hot water springs also have strict Bathing etiquettes. The first and the most stringent rule is that one is not allowed inside the hot spring with any clothes on. Yes, you read that right! Though the hot spring is open to public you need to be totally au naturel before you get in. There are even notice boards reminding you to take off your swim suit or bathing trunks.

Most of the hot springs have separate sections for men and women but the Japanese are a race without much inhibitions and they don’t think twice before stripping in front of a whole lot of strangers. For foreigners though, this can be painfully embarrassing. But once you get over your initial modesty the Onsen experience is one not to be missed in Japan. The water has natural minerals with restorative powers and since the hot water spring is in beautiful natural surroundings, you literally are nestled in the lap of nature while you soak in the bubbling hot water.

The Japanese use their time in the water for quiet contemplation so there is hardly any conversation around. It’s like being in a library sans any books and of course with nudity! 

A Japanese Hot Spring