Snowy Bathing Experience Tsuchiyu Onsen

Overview

In this live-streamed episode, John Daub ventures to Tsuchiyu Onsen (土湯温泉) in Fukushima Prefecture for an unforgettable snowy bathing experience at the ryokan Sanso San Suiso (山荘山水荘). Broadcasting live from the bath itself, John showcases one of the most spectacular outdoor onsen (hot spring) settings he has ever encountered—a private tub overlooking a majestic waterfall, with snow falling gently around the steaming waters.

The timing places this visit in late November 2017, when early winter temperatures create the perfect conditions for the quintessential Japanese hot spring experience: sub-zero air temperatures contrasted against 40–45°C spring water. John provides viewers with a rare, candid look inside an active ryokan bath, complete with candid commentary, explanations of the mineral content, and practical information about costs and booking.

Throughout the approximately eleven-minute broadcast, John shares his genuine enthusiasm for onsen culture, his observations about the water's composition and its effects on the skin, and his general wonder at the natural beauty surrounding the bath. The live stream format captures authentic reactions as he navigates the challenges of filming while maintaining proper onsen etiquette.

Highlights

• 00:04 Stunning introduction with a 360-degree view of the waterfall from the bath at Sanso San Suiso in Fukushima

• 00:45 John introduces Shige and demonstrates the art of the "onsen pose" — maintaining modesty in nudity through careful positioning

• 01:52 John explains the dramatic temperature contrast: 3°C air temperature versus 40–45°C water, describing the sensation as "the best feeling in the world"

• 03:14 Reveals this is his seventh onsen bath in four to five days, part of an extensive Fukushima filming tour

• 04:17 Shares that the ryokan room costs approximately 14,000 yen per night, describing it as "awesome" and directing viewers to Instagram for photos

• 05:23 Shows the beautiful blue-green color of the water, explaining the presence of sulfur and mineral deposits that create the distinctive coloring

• 05:23 Notes that this onsen has a much milder sulfur smell compared to others visited on the Fukushima tour

• 08:42 Describes how the mineral-rich water makes skin feel soft and smooth

• 10:52 Catches sight of smoke/steam rising from the waterfall in the cold air — "You can see the smoke rising on the corner of the fall"

• 10:21 Announces plans for a follow-up live stream at a pancake restaurant later in the day

Timeline / Chapters

00:00–01:00 — Introduction and Setting John begins the live stream from inside the bath at Sanso San Suiso. He introduces Tsuchiyu Onsen in Fukushima Prefecture, mentions his eight to nine-day filming trip documenting ryokan, onsen, food, and culture. He turns the camera to show the waterfall view and introduces Shige.

01:00–03:00 — The Onsen Experience John demonstrates the "onsen pose" tradition where bathers position themselves to maintain modesty while nude. He enters the hot bath and describes the sensation of cold air (3°C/39°F) meeting hot water (40–45°C/100°F+). He mentions this is his seventh onsen bath on the current trip.

03:00–05:00 — Amenities and Atmosphere John discusses the waterfall view as "nothing could be better." He reveals the room rate of approximately 14,000 yen per night. He loses his towel briefly, creating a humorous moment. He describes the soothing sound of the waterfall and expresses desire for hot or cold sake.

05:00–07:00 — Water Chemistry and Permissions John explains he flew his drone with the manager's permission and shows where he landed it. He examines the water's blue-green color and discusses the mineral content (sulfur and other minerals). He notes the sulfur smell is milder than other onsens on the trip.

07:00–09:00 — Authenticity and Gratitude John thanks viewers for watching and acknowledges the appeal of potentially embarrassing moments ("half the people are watching because something could go wrong"). He explains proper onsen etiquette and assures viewers they have permission to film. He describes the skin-softening effects of the mineral water.

09:00–10:00 — Departure and Future Plans John promises to post room photos to Instagram and mentions wanting to stay longer. He previews an upcoming live stream from a pancake restaurant.

10:00–11:19 — Final Moments and Sign-Off John provides one last look at the waterfall, catching sight of steam/smoke rising from the falls in the cold air. He mentions Peter's Instagram post and says goodbye to viewers from Fukushima.

Japan Travel Tips

• How to Get There: Tsuchiyu Onsen is located in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture. From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Fukushima Station (approximately 90 minutes), then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach the onsen village.

• Best Time to Visit: Late autumn through early spring (November–March) offers the dramatic temperature contrast that makes outdoor bathing most memorable, with snow creating a particularly picturesque atmosphere.

• Cost Considerations: Ryokan rooms at establishments like Sanso San Suiso typically range from 10,000–20,000 yen per night for room and meals. Private outdoor baths may be available as room features or communal amenities.

• Onsen Etiquette: Always wash thoroughly before entering the bath. Never submerge your head. Maintain appropriate poses to preserve modesty even when nude. Always ask permission before filming in onsen areas.

• What to Look For: Seek out ryokan with private outdoor baths ( семейная ванна or 貸切温泉) for more filming flexibility. Natural springs with visible mineral deposits ( milky blue or green water) often indicate high-quality onsen water.

• Health Precautions: Those with heart conditions or high blood pressure should be cautious with very hot baths. Stay hydrated. Do not consume alcohol excessively before or during hot spring bathing.

Japanese Language & Culture Notes

Onsen Pose (おんせんのポーズ): A uniquely Japanese practice where bathers position themselves carefully to ensure no private areas are visible in reflections or camera shots. This cultural norm allows for filming and photography in shared bathing spaces while maintaining modesty.

Ryokan (旅館): Traditional Japanese inns that typically include tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, kaiseki (multi-course) dinners, and access to onsen. The all-inclusive nature makes them excellent for experiencing Japanese hospitality (omotenashi).

Namhada (なまはだ): A Tohoku dialect term meaning "bare skin" or referring to the sensation of bathing naked. John uses this term to describe the feeling of hot spring water directly on one's skin.

Tsuchiyu Onsen (土湯温泉): A historic hot spring resort village in Fukushima Prefecture, known for its natural sulfur springs and traditional mountain atmosphere. The area has been a wellness destination for centuries, with ryokan buildings ranging from historic structures to modern facilities.

Sulfur Content: Japanese onsen water classification recognizes different mineral compositions. Sulfur springs (硫黄泉) are known for their distinctive "rotten egg" smell and believed therapeutic properties for skin conditions and circulation. The intensity varies significantly between springs.

Food & Drink Guide

Hot Sake (熱燗): John expresses that hot sake would perfectly complement the onsen experience. Warm sake (typically served at 40–55°C) is traditional in cold weather and pairs excellently with Japanese bar snacks. Served in ceramic tokkuri flasks with ochoko cups.

Cold Sake (冷酒): Alternatively, cold sake (often served at room temperature or slightly chilled) offers a refreshing contrast to hot spring bathing. Premium junmai daiginjo varieties are best enjoyed cold to appreciate their subtle aromatics.

Note: Specific food items from the ryokan's kaiseki dinner are not detailed in this particular stream, though John mentions the food was good.

People

John Daub: Host and creator of Only in Japan Go. An American who has lived in Japan for over 30 years, sharing authentic, unscripted experiences with his global audience. Here he provides an intimate, live glimpse into onsen culture with characteristic enthusiasm and humor.

Shige (繁): John's companion at the ryokan who appears alongside him in the bath. Shige demonstrates the "onsen pose" tradition and provides quiet companionship during the live stream. His stoic presence balances John's energetic narration.

Peter von Gomm: John's American friend living in Japan. Mentioned briefly in the stream with John noting his humorous Instagram post featuring "Captain Kirk" — a lighthearted reference to Peter that adds personal warmth to the broadcast.

Key Takeaways

• Tsuchiyu Onsen in Fukushima offers exceptional outdoor bathing experiences with natural scenery, including waterfalls and winter snow views.

• The dramatic temperature contrast between cold air (around 3°C) and hot spring water (40–45°C) creates an invigorating sensory experience unique to winter onsen bathing.

• Ryokan at Tsuchiyu Onsen are relatively affordable, with quality accommodations available around 14,000 yen per night including meals.

• Japanese onsen culture has developed practical solutions for filming and photography while maintaining modesty through careful positioning and explicit permission from establishments.

• Natural mineral content (especially sulfur) gives onsen water distinctive colors and properties, with strength varying between different hot springs.

• Live streaming from authentic locations, even challenging ones like a bath, creates compelling content that connects viewers directly to experiences they might not otherwise access.

Notable Quotes

00:04 "Hello, everybody. We're live and naked at Sanso San Suiso, which is the name of the Ryokan. And this is Tsuchiyu Onsen in Fukushima."

01:19 "This is most amazing bath I think I've ever been in."

02:28 "Onsen is one of the best feelings in the world because you have this really cold air... and you jump in the water and your body's gonna have a shock. And that's an awesome shock."

04:17 "Waterfall. Nothing could be better than the waterfall."

06:01 "You can see the color of the water here is really, really beautiful. There's some sulfur in the water, just a little bit, and there are other minerals that give it a blue color."

08:11 "I'm always, like, psych stoked."

08:42 "The water makes your skin feel really soft, so you get a really smooth skin from the minerals."

10:52 "You see that? Oh, man, I could watch this all day. It's just awesome with the snow."

Related Topics

• Only in Japan Go: Onsen and Ryokan Series
• Japanese Winter Travel Experiences
• Fukushima Prefecture Tourism
• Live Streaming from Japan
• Traditional Japanese Hospitality
• Outdoor Hot Spring Bathing
• Japanese Alcohol Culture (Sake)

Search Tags

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