Take step back in time and immerse yourself in the wonder of old Japan, at Ooedo Onsen Monogatari!
With a name like Ooedo Onsen Monogatari, the image of a hot spring public bath, Japanese style, comes to mind. You are right, at least partially; Ooedo Onsen has those fully nude bathing areas, but I've never personally experienced it myself. Despite that, I'll vouch that there is a lot to enjoy, and see, at Ooedo Onsen.
For starters, once you check in to the facility, you get to pick out a Yukata for your time here. While perhaps not as glamourous or photogenic as a kimono, the yukata is still very much a signature Japanese garment, and much more comfortable to wear than the kimono by far.
You'll have to change out of your "civilian" clothes to get into the yukata, and if you're not sure about how to put it on, there are posters in the locker room illustrating the manner in which the yukuta should be put on, appropriately.
Once the Yukata is on... the experience is on at Ooedo Onsen! Out of the locker room, you find yourself in an indoor, traditional Japanese village setting. The setting is very, very nice...
...but also cool is that you find yourself surrounded by others, all wearing yukatas! It's truly immersive, and perhaps one of the few places that you find this type of thing where you can imagine yourself walking, barefoot, in old Japan. In the "village" you can enjoy food/drink, play games, and otherwise just soak in this unique atmosphere.
And once you're ready, there's a whole other part, with a similar yet different feel: the outdoor foot baths, with waters warmed nicely by hot springs. Again, here you'll find yourself in a traditional Japanese setting, but more relaxing, calming, and peaceful. That, and the warm water on your feet/legs will make for a sublime experience and a "breather" from the hectic stresses of life.
Of course, there are other features, such as sleeping areas, lounges, the public "onsen", and massages. If you're into that, I've only heard good things. But if you just want to enjoy a unique atmosphere in a great setting, and perhaps pamper your feel and soul, sticking with the more "tame" areas of Ooedo Onsen is still a wonderful experience. Especially for temporary residents, I'd recommend coming here to experience it at least once.
Recommendations:
- Ooedo Onsen is really good for any time of the year and any time of day/night; just be somewhat prepared if going there during the more chilly times (late fall, winter, early spring), as the outdoor air areas can get pretty chilly and cause you to want to hurry to the warm outdoor foot bath waters, where it's actually very pleasant.
- This attraction is also very kid friendly if you have little ones and are not going to the onsen.
- When you're changed into your yukata for your Ooedo Onsen experience, you don't need to bring money with you. That wristband they gave you with the locker key? You can charge your purchases to the wristband, from which you'll pay the charges when you check out.
- Don't forget to bring your camera and/or smartphone, though; many photo opportunities here and you don't want to miss those! Because of this...
- Go with a friend or more: better photos! Selfies might be okay if you're good at those, but much better to have someone else take the photos. Also, you'd want someone with you to talk about and comment on how cool this place is!
Specifics:
Ooedo Onsen Monogatari
Location (Tokyo area, Odaiba):
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