Off to Tenzan Onsen, the thermal baths! The boys chickened out—turns out naked relaxing wasn’t their vibe (yes, you do it naked in Japan). Meanwhile, I embraced the full onsen experience and had an amazing time. Five hot pools, one ice-cold shocker, a chill tatami room, and even a restaurant where I treated myself to a delicious meal!
Side note: This onsen allowed tattooed guests—but only if they were flying solo. Turns out, not all onsens are as chill about ink. I later learned this has to do with tattoos being historically linked to criminality and gang affiliations in Japan.
