Borawazawa Hot Spring

Borawazawa is a small, free communal bath inside a fishing port on Hachijojima's Sueyoshi coast, said locally to be the island's oldest hot spring. There's no attendant; you press a hand counter at the entrance to log your visit, then step into one modest tub built for about seven or eight people, fed by two shower-equipped washing spots (soap and shampoo aren't allowed). The water is colorless and odorless, and can run on the cool side depending on the day's flow; mineral staining on the walls shows how strong it is. The port is a short walk from Shiokawa Beach, a well-known surf break, so surfers rinsing off after a session share the tub with local regulars.