‘Onsen of Japan’, the Guide to Japan’s Hot Springs

Steve Wide, author and DJ, and Michelle Mackintosh, designer and illustrator, have released Onsen of Japan, a guide that lists 140 of the best Japanese hot springs, found all over the country. Known and appreciated by the Japanese for their relaxing, healing properties, onsen are part of the Japanese art of living. The duo travelled across Japan and tried a multitude of hot springs before listing their favourites in their book, published by Hardie Grant. 

Onsen of Japan covers a wide variety of establishments. Steve Wide and Michelle Mackintosh visited super sento, those giant bathhouses and relaxation spaces, as well as chic downtown spas and the most popular local public baths. They also extended their trip to traditional onsen towns, and even to Japanese forests where springs are found in the heart of nature.  

A detailed practical guide

The authors sought to make this book a practical guide, in which each establishment has its own specific information provided. As well as many photos, the guide indicates the price range, whether or not the baths are mixed-sex, whether the owners speak English, and whether tattoos are allowed.

At the beginning, they set out the etiquette to be followed in an onsen and explain the healing benefits of the different types of water so that travellers can make the most of this typically Japanese experience. And for those who would rather not throw themselves in at the deep end completely, Steve Wide and Michelle Mackintosh offer alternatives like the best places to take a foot bath, ashiyu, or a hand bath, teyu.

Onsen of Japan: Japan’s best hot springs and bathhouses (2018), a book by Steve Wide and Michelle Mackintosh published by Hardie Grant.