Why “YUNOMI”?

Onsen in Japan are natural hot spring baths filled with mineral-rich water heated by volcanic activity. Unlike ordinary baths, onsen represent a unique cultural experience shaped by centuries of tradition, seasonal beauty, and etiquette. This beginner-friendly guide explains what an onsen is, how it differs from a public bath (sento), why hot springs became central to Japanese life, and what first-time visitors should know before entering.   What Is an Onsen? An onsen is a natural hot spring bath defined by geothermal water that meets specific mineral and temperature standards under Japanese law. Under Japanese law, water qualifies as “onsen” ...

Japan’s best onsen destinations combine volcanic mineral waters, regional bathing traditions, and seasonal scenery that changes dramatically throughout the year. In this guide, you’ll discover some of the most iconic hot spring towns in Japan, what makes each region special, how onsen water types differ, and practical tips for choosing the right onsen experience for your trip. From sulfur-rich baths in Gunma to gold-colored springs in Hyogo, these destinations represent the heart of Japan’s bathing culture and its deep connection to nature.   Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma) – Japan’s Most Famous Sulfur Springs Kusatsu Onsen is consistently ranked among Japan’s top ...

Kagami Biraki is a Japanese New Year custom in which people eat kagami mochi that has been offered to the New Year deity. By consuming the mochi believed to hold divine blessings, people wish for health and good fortune, quietly marking the end of the New Year season.   What Is Kagami Biraki? Kagami Biraki is the custom of eating kagami mochi that was displayed during the New Year period. The mochi is first offered to Toshigami, the deity believed to visit households at the start of the year. After the New Year celebrations end, the mochi is taken down ...

The Japanese tea ceremony is a traditional cultural practice that blends Zen philosophy, hospitality, and mindful ritual. Each step—from preparing the tearoom to whisking matcha—expresses harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.  This guide explains the meaning behind the ceremony, key concepts like wabi-sabi and ichigo ichie, and how the host’s hospitality (omotenashi) shapes the entire experience.  The Japanese tea ceremony is a traditional ritual of preparing and serving matcha, rooted in Zen Buddhism and centered on harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, expressed through deliberate actions and sincere hospitality.  What Is the Japanese Tea Ceremony? Known as chanoyu, sado, or chado, the ...

Tattoos & onsen in Japan is a topic surrounded by misunderstandings. Some visitors fear they will be rejected, while many Japanese are unsure how tattoos are viewed today. In reality, foreign tattoos are rarely a problem—but the historical context behind Japanese tattoos still influences onsen rules. This guide explains everything visitors need to know: why restrictions exist, how tattoos are perceived culturally, and practical ways to enjoy a hot spring even if you have tattoos. What This Article Covers (Quick Summary) Why some onsen restrict tattoos How Japanese people perceive tattoos today The difference between Japanese tattoos and foreign tattoos ...

Nanakusa-gayu is a traditional Japanese rice porridge eaten on January 7 to absorb the vitality of young spring herbs and pray for good health throughout the year. More than a nutritious meal, nanakusa-gayu reflects a deeply rooted Japanese belief: that seasonal foods gently support the body. After the indulgence of New Year celebrations, this quiet dish symbolizes recovery, moderation, and renewal.   What Is Nanakusa-gayu? Nanakusa-gayu is a light rice porridge cooked with seven young herbs and eaten in Japan on January 7. Unlike celebratory New Year dishes rich in flavor and calories, this porridge is intentionally simple and mild. ...

Receiving a goshuin is a traditional practice in Japan that records your visit to a shrine or temple through calligraphy and a sacred seal. A goshuin is not simply something to collect. It is given after worship and reflects respect for the sacred place you have visited. This guide explains the correct order for receiving a goshuin, proper etiquette to follow, and common mistakes visitors should avoid.   What Is a Goshuin? A goshuin is a sacred seal and handwritten inscription offered at Japanese shrines and temples. It serves as a record of worship rather than a souvenir. Because of ...

A goshuincho is a special book used to collect goshuin, sacred seals given at Japanese shrines and temples after worship. At first glance, it may look like a simple notebook. In reality, a goshuincho plays an important cultural role, helping preserve the meaning and dignity of goshuin as religious records. This article explains what a goshuincho is, why it exists, and how it is viewed in Japanese spiritual culture, so first-time visitors can understand its purpose clearly.   What Is a Goshuincho? A goshuincho is a dedicated book designed specifically for receiving goshuin. Unlike ordinary notebooks, it is treated as ...

A goshuin is a sacred seal and handwritten inscription given at Japanese shrines and temples as proof of worship. It is often mistaken for a souvenir stamp, but goshuin grew out of pilgrimage culture and carries religious and cultural meaning. In this guide, you’ll learn what a goshuin is, where it comes from, and why it still matters today—so you can understand this tradition with respect and confidence.   What Is a Goshuin? A goshuin is a traditional mark received at shrines and temples after proper worship. It typically includes: Red seals representing the shrine or temple Black calligraphy handwritten ...

Osechi ryōri is Japan’s traditional New Year feast, where each dish carries a symbolic wish for the year ahead. Presented in layered lacquer boxes, these foods blend flavor, tradition, and hope — offering a deeper look into how Japanese people welcome the New Year. Below is a guide to the most iconic osechi dishes, arranged in the traditional order used inside the jubako boxes.   Kazunoko (Herring Roe) Kazunoko symbolizes prosperity and the wish for a family line to continue. Its firm texture comes from strong salt curing, so the roe is typically soaked before eating to remove excess salt. ...