One of the most volcanically active countries in the world, Japan is blessed with thousands upon thousands of naturally heated onsen hot springs. Steaming mineral-rich waters flow from beautiful mountainous landscapes, which heal both the body and the soul. Some of the best hot springs in the world can be found in Hakone, Atami, Kusatsu, and Beppu for their stunning views and extraordinary volumes of water.
My favorite onsen facilities are built with natural elements: walls of wood and bamboo rather than concrete, pathways of rocks and stones rather than tile, pools filled with waterfalls and streams rather than faucets. The sound of running water drowns out all cares and anxieties as it washes over me.
Nothing in Japan represents rest to most Japanese more than onsen, offering recovery from both physical and mental fatigue and stress. The hot water heals the muscles. Natural minerals heal the skin. Whether overworked, tired, sick, or in pain, these hot springs can bring relief. They provide a place to relax with family and friends without a thought to the passing of time. And nothing in Japan is perhaps closer to our state in the Garden of Eden or to the deep eternal rest that is promised to come.
“The angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb.” (Revelation 22:1)
What if the healing waters of the river of life are like the waters of an onsen? One day, will we sit in pools along this river completely washed and fully clean, as we delight in God, each other, and the world? On that day, we will certainly enjoy the perfect peace and healing that flows from the throne of Jesus.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Jesus invites us to this place of rest and intimate community and, even now, the weary and burdened can begin to experience it. True rest can only be found in heaven, but in the meantime, we can enjoy the many blessings of the Japanese onsen.
Excerpt from "Hidden Beauty" by Roger W. Lowther
I recommend Manyo Club in Toyosu for onsen in Tokyo.