two firsts.

Tonight were two firsts for me: travelling in an actual Japanese car and going to an onsen (asian spa). Two both scary and exciting events.

Scary? Why? you ask.
Reason #1. I was with my Japanese friend Kana, who is crazy, I'm convinced. She wips around in this small little car, through crowded traffic and small winding streets, and sometimes the wrong way down a one way. Driving in Osaka, is...well...mind boggling. It takes both guts and a certain amount of skill to drive here. 10% skill. 90% guts!

Reason #2. Once at the onsen, you are surrounded by, well, nudity (chuckling to myself now). But, you know, it actually does not have to be a scary thing, I'm learning. I guess its kind of everyones fear, isn't it? Being naked in public. For the Japanese, its a perfectly normal, communal activity. In a totally natural and healthy way, I mean. Besides - bodies - we all have them. And, we need to love them and take care of them. Something I think I'm learning to pay attention to more this year. This feels a litte funny to be writing about this. hmm...

We entered the building in Takatsuki city, took off our shoes and found our feet confronted with a bamboo floor. We paid the 800 yen fee, and walked to the change room, dis-robed (or whatever you call it), and proceeded to the pools. Its separated for men and women. It did feel a little strange at first...a little awkward. But, to my surprise, that all goes away once you sit in the hot, silky water. Kana made me feel so comfortable, showing me what to do and where to go. We soaked in a series of luxurious baths, some outside surrounded by rocks and trees. You actually feel quite secluded here. Like you are bathing in the side of a mountain or something.

I guess in the Okinowa area, its one of the most popular spots for onsens. She was telling me that the theory is many people live into their 80's and 90's here because of the healing properties of the water. I can see how this is probably true.

So, after our skin felt silky smooth, and baby soft (sorry, am I making you jealous yet?. my bad.), we headed back to Shin-Osaka. It was so good to be in a real car again. It made me miss my little Hyundai in Edmonton. Still, I think I will stick to the safety of the subway.

You can check out a few pics and a couple videos from tonight if you like. Sorry...only pictures of people fully clothed! (am laughing now!) Ok, someone change the subject...its too quiet in here.

www.dropshots.com/erickson_jane