**Today's theme: Onsen Culture — 温泉 (おんせん / onsen)** ♨️ One of Japan's most beloved traditions is visiting an **onsen** (温泉 / おんせん) — a natural hot spring bath. Whether you're in the snowy mountains of Hokkaido or the volcanic regions of Kyushu, onsens are everywhere, and they come with their own set of important customs. Before entering the bath, you must **wash thoroughly** at the washing stations provided. This is called **かけ湯 (かけゆ / kakeyu)** — pouring hot water over yourself to rinse off. You'll also leave your **タオル (taおる / taoru)** — towel — outside the water, usually folded on your head. Most onsens are **混浴禁止 (こんよくきんし / kon'yoku kinshi)** — meaning men and women bathe separately in different sections. Here are some key vocabulary words to know: **脱衣所 (だついじょ / datsuijo)** means the changing room where you undress before entering. **露天風呂 (ろてんぶろ / rotenburo)** refers to an outdoor bath, which is often considered the most scenic and relaxing type. **入浴料 (にゅうよくりょう / nyūyokuryō)** is the entry fee you pay. And if you see a sign saying **入浴禁止 (にゅうよくきんし / nyūyoku kinshi)**, it means bathing is prohibited — often for people with tattoos, which are still restricted in many traditional onsens. 💬 **Discussion question:** Have you ever been to an onsen, or is it something on your Japan bucket list? Would you feel comfortable following all the customs? Share your thoughts below!