Japanese people love taking baths. Slowly soaking in a tub of hot water relaxes the body and the spirit. It is probably the best moment of the day.

Recently, a new type of bath that doesn't use water has become popular.
You may ask, though, If there's no water, what's the point?
Don’t jump to any conclusions. One try and you are sure to be hooked.

Ganbanyoku, or bedrock bath, does not require any water. Just lying down on the bedrock warms the body and eventually drains any waste through perspiration. It is said to have positive health and beauty benefits and is especially popular among women.

Where can you experience a bedrock bath?
Tokyo offers many convenient locations, including Dragon Spa Roppongi, located in the Roppongi District. The first spa to use rocks from Mt. Fuji, Dragon Spa has become a favorite stop not only for women but also for business executives working at nearby Roppongi Hills. It is said that the far-infrared rays, mineral substances and negative ions contained in the lava of Mt. Fuji work better than any other type of rock for alleviating physical ailments such as stiff shoulders, lower back pain and bad circulation, as well as lowering body fat levels and improving skin health.

Many spas are open until late or even until early in the morning. A bedrock bath could be a great after-dinner activity during your visit!

What’s that you say? Can't read Japanese?
Not a problem. A visit to this bookstore near Kanda, Tokyo, is entertaining even for those who cannot understand Japanese at all.

Jidaiya is a Japanese bookstore that specializes in historical books, the first of its kind. But, it is more than a bookstore. Jidaiya carries all types of products related to Japanese history including DVDs, ninja stars, Japanese socks (tabi), samurai wigs and much more.
There is even a tea house where you can enjoy green tea and sweets.

The employees are also not to be missed.
There is no store manager. Instead, there is an okami (proprietress), decchi ("shop boys") and houkounin (apprentices) all dressed in Japanese-style clothing, just like you would have found back in feudal times.


Saturday events are a big draw. Visitors wearing yukata (summer cotton kimono) can enjoy green tea and sweets for free in the tea house.

What better way to experience Japanese history than putting on a yukata and stopping by Jidaiya?

Access: One minute walk from Ogawamachi Station and two minutes walk from Awajicho Station.