This undated photo provided by Stéphanie Crohin shows traditional baths and murals in Kasuga onsen, or hot spring bath, in Matsuzaka, Mie prefecture, Japan. Japan is proud of its bathing traditions.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I specialize in luxury hotels, Latin America and adventure travel. If tropical heat is a top item on your vacation checklist, ...

Japan is the first place I’ve visited where I’ve needed instruction on how to sleep, shower and use the toilet. In this globally connected world, it’s easy for countries to feel a tad culturally ...

Bathing in an “Onsen,” or hot spring, should be on any bucket list for Japan, even if you aren’t a big wellness girlie — although the physical and mental benefits are definitely part of the draw. Each ...

There are more than 3,000 onsens in Japan, found throughout the country and these hot spring pools come in all shapes and sizes. There are outdoor pools, indoor pools and those that are traditional ...

Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. In this globally connected world, it’s easy for countries to feel a tad culturally homogenous at times.