You'll catch Pneumonia!

Last weekend I had the wonderful opportunity to take a day trip to the town of Kusatsu. This area has been the king of the onsen world in Japan for the last three years. I can see why. the water smells of volcanic activity, heck... the whole town stinks like egg.

Kiyoe and I set off very early for our four hour journey, and arrived a little after 11. the entire train ride I was actually quite disappointed at the lack of snow. I had always envsioned myself doing what I could never do in the states... take a natural hot spring bath in an onsen surrounded by snow, and as i approached kusatsu, I thought it still wouldnt happen.

but, to my surprise after the snowless journey we arrived in kusatsu to see that it was blanketed with snow! YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! its been too long since i've been able to play around in the stuff. I've got great video of me sliding down a hill on my chest.

I did get to two onsens, and they were everything i thought they could be. snow snow snow everywhere. The best part though had to be walking stark naked outside when it was -4 celcius, and then stepping into the 40 degree water, surrounded by snow. pure bliss. i could have stayed there for hours. And as a little treat, it began snowing as i sat soaking. as it would have been very gross and probably illegal to take photos, I didnt, but i hope you can get an idea. The japanese definitely have mastered relaxation on a cold winter day... but I can still imagine my mother's response to all this, being a nurse... "You'll Catch Pneumonia!!!"

what's next on the menu de scotto?

well... this friday i head back to sumo. next friday... i head back to Kusatsu with my friend Tier who has never seen snow (heh hehe heh). I have two going away parties this next week. one for my friend Jill from chicago and one for Canadian Scott. The 2nd exodus has begun. by June, none of my good friends here, with the exception of kiyoe, will still be in japan, including myself.

oh well.... I better make the most of it until then.

I'm out. need to get ready for work.