Dogo Onsen
We stayed in the area around Dogo Onsen- Japan's very first onsen. Our guide describes the area as "atmospheric," which I interpreted as "extremely dodgy." Imagine our suprise when we show up at 6am to discover this really did mean atmospheric- nothing dodgy about the area at all! (Plus, lovely foot baths!). Dogo Onsen is over 1,300 years old! It was also immortalised in a book by Botchan, a writer who frequented the onsen. As a result, there is this old train from a long time ago that is featured in the book that actually still carries passengers around town, as well as a clock that features scenes from the novels several times a day. It is not very exciting, but it is entertaining to watch all the tour groups gather round at the appointed time.
Me in the foot bath!
The famous train, also called "Botchan" (many things in Mastuyama are called Botchan)
The famous Dogo Onsen- Japan's first! We went to a special package here involving a more private bath and relaxing in a special room with a snack. I had the bath entirely to myself!! It was wonderful. We also visited the Royal Family's personal bath (and toilet), reserved just for them. It was awkward when Zach jumped in. (Just joking!)
The Dogo Onsen Train Station
The famous clock
posted by Zachary and Jane @ 2:08 AM
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