We went to koeji ski resort in Iwate, and after Koeji, stayed at Tousukeya Ryokan in Dai Onsen (hot springs), deep in the snow country. So, we enjoyed both skiing and hot springs. And this Ryokan (Japanese style hotel) has kitchen facilities for guests, so we cooked simple our meals. We could enjoy hot springs and save a money.
There are many this style hotels in Dai Onsen (hot springs). Some people even stay for long term (generally over 1 week) and soak in the hot spring baths several times each day. Actually, the hot springs have a lot of minerals, and these are believed to have specific health benefits. They stay hot springs hotel to recover their strength. This is know as Toji in Japanese. In addition, there is a lot of hotel for Toji in mountain side. There is a also fresh air, water and foods. So Japanese people have long enjoyed hot springs.
In the photo above, street in Dai Onsen.
In the photo above, open air hot spring in Osawa Onsen, (not in Dai Onsen)
