No trip to Japan is complete without an authentic onsen (hot spring) experience. But the art of Japanese communal bathing, with its relaxing qualities and healing properties, is still a mystery to most Western tourists.

Help is now at hand. Onsen of Japan showcases over 100 of the best onsen from across the country – including traditional 7th-century baths, historic wooden buildings, open-air mountain springs, rustic neighbourhood baths, and big city super santos (aquatic centres) – all of them beautiful places to enjoy this quintessential Japanese experience. Alongside vivid descriptions and beautiful images, each listing includes a checklist with important travel information, such as price range, whether same-sex or mixed bathing is available, whether English is spoken, and if tattoos are accepted.

A detailed introduction at the front of the book includes a guide to etiquette, onsen rules, customs and quirks, as well as information on different water types and their healing benefits. The authors also offer tips on how to take a bath like a local, bathing in different seasons, the best places to take a foot bath (ashiyu) or hand bath (teyu), and where you can cook your own onsen egg.

This is essential reading for anyone dreaming of visiting Japan.