Every Friday, we feature a one-on-one Q&A with Japas, our resident curators: Maíra Kimura, Yumi Shimada, and Fernanda Ueno—founders of Japas Cervejaria. They will share their personal reflections on culture, travel, and the everyday moments including their connection to Japan.
Fernanda: I had the chance to go to an onsen while I was in Japan but it was not one of those surrounded by nature, but still a really unique and interesting experience. In Brazil, we don’t really have anything like it. At first, it felt a bit unusual but once you’re in, it’s incredibly relaxing. I haven’t been to one of those more traditional ryokans in the mountains with the full cultural experience yet, but it’s definitely on my list for next time. I think that would be even more immersive.
Yumi: I visited a few onsens in Japan and was truly amazed by the one I experienced inside a ryokan in Hakone. It was really difficult to enter an onsen for the first time and be naked in the middle of nature. But in the end, you realize you're part of nature too.
I was able to learn a few things. First, you take a shower before entering the water. It feels like a cleansing ritual, almost like asking permission before stepping in. Then you stay there for hours, soaking in water that at first feels uncomfortably hot, but eventually becomes deeply relaxing. It's like carving out a moment from your life to pause and truly connect with yourself.
Maíra: I visited an onsen in Hakone, and it was one of the most memorable parts of the trip. At first, I felt a bit shy, but that quickly gave way to a deep sense of calm. Sitting in the hot water, surrounded by nature and silence, I felt completely present and relaxed.