Chihara Onsen

One of Japan's most beloved secret springs, hidden deep in the mountains of Shimane. The carbonated sodium chloride-bicarbonate water rises up through the wooden floorboards of the bath at a mild 34 degrees, sending streams of fine bubbles over your skin that gradually warm you from the inside, the classic "effervescent bath" effect. The rustic wooden interior, the remote valley setting, and the rule that each group gets a full 30 minutes alone in the tub all contribute to the cult following this place has earned.