Onsen is a Japanese word that refers to the bathing facilities provided by the country’s many hot springs.

These therapeutic hot spring baths are an ancient Japanese tradition, and they’re famous internationally partlydown to the fact that they’ve historically been nude and communal.

Now, many onsens allow patrons to wear bathing suitsn (thankfully!) , although bathers are still expected to wash themselves thoroughly before entering the water.

Apparently, snow monkeys which live in the mountian’s of Kapan are also partial to a dip in the water, so if you do make it to a Japanese hot spring, don’t be surprised if you have some furry company!