Naked at 50 in Japan: My Journey to Self Acceptance at an Onsen ♨️

[@ChaniJapan]

*Watch next* If you are new to the channel, here I talk about moving to Japan as a 50 year old: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYjTZoJ3drB_jck

[@kellyhaines764]

I have watched all. And appreciate you sharing your adventures. The only problem I have found is employment. What I have experience in is not as transferable as teaching. Even though I have volunteered in the past up at my son’s school and even substituted a couple of times. But I do not have education in that field. Keep the stories coming. 😀

[@inquisitvem6723]

Is the cost of dermatologist visit for anyone even tourists? Also please explain cost for foreigners living there on a long term visa using dermatologists or any kind of doctor.

[@bethduffey247]

Many years ago in Japan, warts started appearing in several of my fingers. I went to several specialist who all thought they had the way to cure this. I tried taking huge pills from China over several months with no results, just more warts. Another doctor gave me painful injections in my digits. After a few years, I gave up hope. Then, our family visited Shirahama on a summer vacation. While sitting in the water in a shallow spot so that I could be near my young son, I noticed tiny fish, coming up and nibbling on me. They were so tiny that I could not feel them nibbling. A week later, on our way back to Tokyo, I thought that I noticed a change in my warts-they were shrinking! Within 2 more weeks, I was wart free and never again have had this problem. Needless to say, Shirahama has left a place in my heart forever. So glad to see it again in your video!

[@ChaniJapan]

That is an amazing story!

[@BrantRaven]

Did you ever discover what actually happened?

[@sylviekins]

Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus and often disappear after some time, but the nibbling fish no doubt helped- I don’t really know much about the fish part! In any case, it is nice to be rid of them, especially on your hands and fingers❤❤❤

[@Bearcub599]

Wow! Talk about the healing power of nature ( the fish 🐟 to be precise 😊)

[@johnforde7735]

In Japan they are called doctor fish. I used to go to an onsen in Tokyo, that has since closed, but they had doctor fish pools. The fish eat on your feet and cleanse them. I guess it's a win-win situation.

[@DaleyDale]

You tackle topics that barely or none of the other japan content creators make... this channel is so refreshing and very educational. As a kid i was very self-conscious about my body so i decline any invites on Onsen by family or friends but as i grew up and became a teenager i realized that it's better to not give a f about what others might think of you or say.

[@shawnmariemann]

Getting older as a woman is not for the faint of heart. The hormonal changes can do unsettling things just at the time when many of us girls are looking to a new phase in life. You're handling it beautifully. I have one close friend, we are two months apart in age (both 54.) We met at the age of 2 and have been friends all this time. There is nothing like having a person in your life who knew you before you became someone's mother or wife, who grew up with you and who grows old with you. This video is fabulous, thank you.

[@micgant]

I went to an Onsen the first time I went t to Japan and was so self conscious about my overweight American body. I also had a small tattoo that I had to cover up too but I wanted to do it really bad so I did it! I’m so happy I did. The setting was gorgeous and the water was delightful. I loved it!

[@chandraregan5847]

I grew to love onsens. I loved how when you visit an onsen, you do come to realize that we are all human, complete with scars and flaws. It was a great time to converse with friends, while relaxing. I have heard of that inochi no denwa. There is hope for all of us because God made us all and loves us all, scars, flaws, wounds, and all.

[@ChaniJapan]

Well said!

[@tacitusromanus8239]

Another wonderful video, Chani. I went to an onsen twice when I recently visited Japan. I had left my swimsuit at home and felt self-conscious about going because I had to undergo a mastectomy last year. However, I shared my insecurities with a few different Japanese ladies I encountered in my travels, and they assured me that it wasn't a big deal. The first time I went, I had the onsen to myself. The second time, there was another lady there. She went outside to the outdoor onsen, and I stayed inside in the indoor one. I gradually, between both visits, felt a bit more comfortable in my own skin.

[@debbie1247]

You are so good at touching upon the very real process of acclimating to Japanese culture and the challenges that come about. As a 60 yo with similar body insecurities I am also contemplating my first onsen trip. It's nerve wracking to onsen with strangers but to go with people you know is next level. Thank you for sharing how you not only managed it, but survived and enjoyed it. I will get there although I hope there is no back scrubbing 😳

[@wildblackberry9164]

Hi there Debbie, just to reassure you - in all the times I’ve been to Japanese Onsen, no one has ever been there to scrub backs a la Turkish hammam style!

[@katewardle8032]

Thank you for touching on the subject of body image for women. Many of us deal with this as an internal struggle. But you only need to read the comments to see how many others feel the same way. The phone booth at the cliffs is something we should be doing everywhere ❤

[@ellaconner9452]

I’m sooooo happy you made this video! I’m 70 yr female and have always been very self conscious of my overweight body. However I’m so much better now than I was in my younger years. I’m a redhead and have rosacea. I rarely have flare ups thankfully. I’m thankful you were able to get fast medical treatment and medicine. Take care Chani. I look forward to your next video 😊. TFS

[@KristaCarrington]

I've been working out since highschool but when I went to Japan the thought of being naked in front of people gave me extreme anxiety. So, I think it's really hard for most women

[@lindalarsson1436]

It's not our culture. You don't have to prove anything

[@IlVenturetto]

You are 50 years young! I love all your videos, and knowing that there will be a cat showing at some point is a plus! Although I was this thinking "OK, no cat today..." and there he was! 😻😻😻😻

[@willincairns]

Rosacea has drastically changed my life, late 50's. Everything that I use & can control is Hypoallergenic. Going out, shopping, etc is very difficult, facial burning from fragrances, cleaners, car exhausts, herbal teas, and so much more. Hope your condition is manageable. Love your inspirational new life, and showing another beautiful area in this visit. The sand being used from Western Australia is amazing. It actually looks nicer than the sand in North Queensland.

[@kikimaree4354]

Have you tried ivermectin for Rosacea? My doctor said it was an effective treatment should mine get worse

[@RumMonkeyable]

Congrats, Chani, for this "journey". Many foreigners don't "do" the onsen except in their suite at a ryokan. You are a winner! 👍👏❤

[@Titania714]

It really is hard getting past the "omgnakedwithstrangers" stage. But it's so worth it. As a fellow 50 something, I went to them you for providing a different view into expat life. We're not all kids, and it's nice to get an older perspective.

[@turtleinjapan]

Chani, another great video. I, too, remember hitting my late 40's and the weight gain. No amount of exercise or calorie counting helped, so I bought some bigger jeans and just accepted myself. I recently started intermittent fasting--nothing crazy--and have found it has really helped me with my weight. I eat within a 10 hour window and fast for 14. I truly enjoy your perspective on life and your positive attitude. Thank you.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks for sharing!! A few people mentioned this so I might give it a go.

[@surfer21]

it also helps to add in a few regular extended fasts which can keep your weight at an ideal weight. i personally intermittent fast every day, then end of month fast until i reach my ideal weight which could be anywhere from 4 to 10 days. I repeat this at beginning of every month! Once a year i do a 20 plus day fast as well of only water.

[@capitalb5889]

A lot of people had had success with the 5:2 diet as well.

[@tracyokuno2120]

Embrace your body. People who judge others are insecure themselves. So exciting going to an onsen! I want to do that next time I’m in Japan! 😊

[@cecilearquette1637]

True friends will accept you as you are. So lovely!

[@DianeBroder]

I have been to an onsen when younger and was fine. But totally agree, I would feel very different today. Thank you for your words of support.

[@tanyahouston5635]

I have rosacea and it really did a number on my self esteem for years. I am better now. So glad the dermatologist is reasonable there. That was a lovely skirt you were wearing-blue and red!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks

[@HH-om7gz]

Hi ! I am almost same age as you and enjoy your Japanese life😊 I have been to high school in the us as an exchange student and I have lived in Sydney as well. I will have a lunch with my friend whose home town is Wakayama today and I will talk to her your KZbin. Hope your skin gets better soon! あなたの日本での生活を応援しています！Have a lovely weekend❣️

[@sirmione905]

I’m Japanese but I was reluctant to go to an onsen because I was overweight. One day I stayed at a hotel where you can enjoy stunning views from the outdoor bath. I couldn’t resist and entering the onsen, I realized the people there were just ordinary women, not models or athletes, and not just young ones but elderly too. My cousin who was with me at that time has a scar in her body from a surgery but she didn’t care much about it since no one stared others in there. They were just looking at the beautiful views. I was too worried about how other people would think of my body but in fact, no one cared. That experience changed my attitude and now I enjoy my relaxing time in onsen.😊

[@studiolemony]

😭 this video made me cry twice. And it’s great! Thanks for highlighting your feelings around going to onsen. I’m so glad you’ve felt this relaxation and can be more comfortable with yourself. The part with the cliff is sadly touching; it’s awesome you could highlight some positive notes. And also your doctor appointments always seem so easy! Thanks for sharing. I feel a lot of hope and joy from your videos. I hope your skin feels better soon! 💕 I can totally relate, I have eczema which chronically flares up.

[@ChaniJapan]

I was very touched by the cliff and the efforts that had been made to help people ♥️

[@OliviaWood14]

I was crying twice as well😭I agree it was a really touching video💕

[@traceymandlik2793]

Enjoyed your video. I have been going to onsens regularly since I was in my 40s now in my sixties. My husband and I always travel with onsen towels and stop for a bathe and soak after lunch when travelling. One of the best parts of Japan. It is a very good way to learn to accept yourself and just relax.

[@ChaniJapan]

That is awesome!

[@lepearcreatif]

I chose to ignore any possible body issues i could have the first time I went to an onsen. I have been to 7 different onsen now. I love it.

[@catherineduff4302]

Chani, you are such a strong and inspirational woman and very open and honest about your feelings of insecurity about appearing naked in front of strangers. Thats what we love about you as you come across so honest

[@BethDoublekickChick]

This is so inspirational, I'm a 44 yr old aussie old chook and I often wonder how comfortable I would be at an onsen. Now I know I'd be ok, no one minds our imperfections as they mostly exist in our mind. Much love from Perth Western Australia 🇦🇺 ❣🇯🇵🤘

[@ChaniJapan]

❤️

[@capitalb5889]

Absolutely no one looks or cares

[@jpwraider13]

Great video again. And a great message for everyone. You rock young lady.

[@OldGreyWolfOkami]

Your journey and all of your videos have been so encouraging for me on a personal level. Before visiting Japan for three weeks last year (having never left Australia before) I knew I was going to enjoy myself but I was not prepared for how much Japan changed me. Now, as I prepare to make a similar massive life change to the one you have, your videos offer little glimpses into the kinds of things I will have to become accustomed to as a resident rather than a tourist. Keep up the great work! がんばって

[@fionnawheatley9095]

Thanks

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks so much ❤️

[@sleeplessstu]

What a wonderful self reflection ! I can definitely sympathize as I am a rather “beefy” (but definitely not “beefcake” 😂) so I’m always a little self conscious in the rotenburo. As some of your other subscribers mentioned, I always find myself taking the time to scrub extra long to make sure all the other Japanese know that I’m fully aware of the rules. I often try to hide in an unobtrusive corner so as not to disturb (or SHOCK) anyone 😅☺️. When I was in my twenties when I first started coming to Japan, it was a bit of a culture shock to bathe with other men, but now I truly feel it’s a privilege to be able to share in this centuries old tradition. Not only do you get to experience the beauty of the baths and their surroundings, but the feeling you get after soaking in the natural hot water always seems so invigorating. It’s the one time I can forget about everything and just concentrate on personal “self care”. Nowadays I don’t care so much about how I look to others because like you said, people at the onsen are probably paying more attention to themselves. 😂. To some Japanese, we might seem a “curiosity” at first, but if you’re following Japanese “onsen etiquette” everyone will just be relaxing and doing their own thing. I highly encourage people to visit the more isolated “Mom and Pop” (family run) onsens and ryokans in areas that might not get as much traffic as the more touristy areas. Those places likely won’t be around much longer unless they are supported. I believe that one reason the Japanese live so long is that they prioritize bathing and self care. Hot water is great for circulation ! We should all spend more time in the bath ! 🛁 😉

[@ChaniJapan]

I think that is a great idea to support the local family run onsens. They have so much character ❤️

[@bellsofthenorthhomestead5326]

This video is so welcome !! My husband son and I will be visiting several onsen and I’ll admit I’m feeling a bit nervous about my 50 year old body and all the stress I’ve put it through. My mind thinks I’m still in my thirties but then I look in the mirror and constantly go “what happened?” I’m hoping to embrace the concept of wabi sabi and appreciate all the cracks and imperfections as I move into this new phase of life 😊

[@gotakazawa408]

JP: Chani, 素敵な週末の経験をシェアしてくれてありがとう。 あなたが、”命の電話”に気付いた視点は素晴らしいことだと、日本人として感心しています。 これからも、あなたが日本文化の多くを体験し、その旅が有意義になるように願っています。 EN: Chani, thank you for sharing your wonderful weekend experience. As a Japanese person, I am impressed by your insightful perspective on "Inochi no Denwa" (Lifeline). I hope you continue to experience and enjoy many aspects of Japanese culture, and that your journey remains meaningful.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks so much ❤️

[@hollyword41]

Much respect and thanks to you for this heartfelt, insightful and uplifting video. We all do have our self doubts and insecurities and I admire your openness. Thank you again from Atlantic Canada. ☺️🤗

[@fionanoyce1676]

Thanks for posting this. I went to the mango Club onsen in toyosu yesterday. I'm a bit on the larger side and some of the ladies laughed at me. I visited Japan 4 times before, and I have never experienced that before.

[@ChaniJapan]

Oh that’s a shame 😢

[@Rockmanticist]

I (38F) was worried about my body too as I hadn't been naked in public since I left school (we had swimming lessons, the changing rooms weren't private) but it turns out... once I got there I was more concerned about being judged for not using those sitting down showers properly 😂😂😂😂 so my body insecurities disappeared. And the fact that everyone was minding their own business also helped a lot.

[@shiubshiushiu]

Thank you for including the subtitle of the pharmacist. It was interesting knowing what he was saying and hearing the Japanese.

[@thompson8286]

Thank you for such encouraging words! I am so happy that it was able to help you and turned into a good experience❤

[@jamiemiesler322]

You’re a brave woman. I’ve never had a problem with my weight even after raising 4 raising 4 kids. And the 50 happened😳 I don’t even recognize myself. I’m happy you’re finding yourself there & learning self acceptance.

[@ChaniJapan]

It’s tough to lose yourself sometimes!

[@suzyq8134]

Wow… I feel this so much. For me, turning 50 has been lonely and a little frightening. But your video and reading these beautiful comments has made me feel less alone. Thank you, beautiful women ❤

[@puutans]

Still can’t believe you’re 50. You look great and healthy💃

[@TereseHalvorson]

Enjoyed this video alot. Your path to self-acceptance and peace with your body changes resonate with so many women going through peri/menopause. You are not alone. I was too embarrassed to use the onsens at the hotels we just stayed at on our holiday. I always want to reflect a positive body image to my daughters but I just chickened out. No big deal. Love that you had good friends to go on a girls weekend with. I don't have this type of network although I have a few good friends & we boost each other up as we need it. Just one or two good friends is invaluable.

[@deborahrivera6064]

I just discovered your channel and subscribed. I am a Japanophile and so admire your honesty, sincerity, courage and kindness. You keep it real. At age 59, (8 years ago) I made a cross country move to start a new life. I drove myself, with my cat, from Colorado to Seattle (at the end of January nonetheless). It was the best thing I could have done for myself. You are an inspiration to follow your dreams. All the best to you and Millie.

[@capitalb5889]

I know I could Google it, but how far is that?

[@marteme2273]

Very nice to hear you talk and reflect upon this topic❤

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you 🙂

[@elyseb674]

​@@ChaniJapan we were nursing school exchange students, in Aomori, 18 years ago. I didn't feel comfortable getting/being naked in from of my classmates and teachers (sisters who LOVE onsen). I'm almost 59 and officially menopausal. I still feel shame, but in this year, I've had massages where I'm only wearing the spa panties they give you. I DO know but to verbalize my body image issues around my 10 year old impressionable grand niece. I'm glad you enjoyed the onsen. I lived on Okinawa , twice, for over 4 years cumulatively. I was 50 when we climbed Fujiyama. Domo arigato.

[@JoClark-c4n]

Chani, your videos are always filled with such wonderful life lessons. I don’t know if it’s the teacher in you or just your ability to share such wonderful perspectives that touch us all. Your friends are blessed to have you. ❤️ I have wonderful lifelong friends that live all over the states. To have 1 or 2 friends that have stood by you through thick and thin is one of the greatest gifts. Enjoy every moment of the life you have and continue to create. 😍

[@ChaniJapan]

Wow, thank you! Very kind of you ❤️

[@rnptenafly]

I think it is interesting that a bath in the evening is so ingrained in the culture, that the pharmacist didn’t say to take your medicine once in the morning and once in the evening, but once in the morning and after your bath.

[@ddixalot]

It’s more about how you feel now than how you appear to people. We are all getting older. I am 60 year old and plan to live 6 months in Osaka soon with my wife’s family. I really enjoy the orange trees Wakayama in January. What a great place to live but i cannot talk my wife into buying a house there. You are a beautiful and adventurous person. Keep it up.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you 😃

[@shelleymckenna2275]

Great video. Definitely issues we face around this age. My dresses seem to be shrinking in my closet and I find it harder to make friends at this age ❤️

[@ChaniJapan]

So true!

[@EdwinCV-dh8qc]

Hey Chani,all you video's are inspirational friend.

[@joygatewood8028]

I enjoy hearing your journey - because we all struggle with body image issues. You're gorgeous :-) I love your channel.

[@santisanti8386]

Chani, I literally talk to you while watching the video, asking questions and commenting (not out loud, though😊)... that's how this video is pleasant to watch, literally like following a friend...from complimenting your outfit (that skirt looks so perfect on you), to enjoying a glance at sun halo and meeting your friends and small talk with a Japanese gentleman... I'm so glad to see so many people around my age refusing to put a limit on their lives just because of the number, if nothing else that number should make us feel good about ourselves. Love what you do. That telephone booth is really something special, I watched so many expat videos about Japan but only in your video I see those details that are essential for Japan...Thank you! 😊

[@paulasmith4561]

What a lovely video and your wonderful for sharing your feelings with us, I’m 56 and my body isn’t as it was , it’s not easy to accept that you don’t look the same as you were 10 years ago and can’t do the things as well as you could when you were younger but I have just excepted that this is the next stage of my life. I went to an onsen last time I was in Japan and enjoyed it and I also found that other people didn’t look at you or care about the way you looked.

[@ChaniJapan]

Wonderful!

[@diannebayley4644]

Really lovely video. Had a sad weekend, mostly sad day (except for a lovely young lady at the coffee shop who insisted my cappucino was free!) and trying to stay positive about my no-job situation. LOVE the telephone booth and appreciate you sharing insecurities we all have but not many have the courage to speak about. You're a gift.

[@kristinjacobsen3417]

As you mention hormonal changes affecting your weight and ask about friends we open up to ... Menopause opened me up a lot! I don't know why/how. But all of the sudden i was truly feeling my feeling instead of supressing them. I was talking with everyone about everything. Two close women friends I've had for 30 years (before and after) said they loved me before but i just wasn't someone who talked. I always thought of myself as a good listener. But now i talk and i think I'm closer than ever to my friends.

[@stephenharris]

Really enjoying your videos and personal insights into the more vulnerable side of life. The positives you talk about and negatives you lament are both universals that resonate widely. Keep on providing us with these very enjoyable and edifying life lessons!

[@ChaniJapan]

I appreciate that!

[@Feli-b1b]

very inspiring again . Thank you for speaking about such a sensitive issue. I'm also in the hormonal change - gained weight 10 years ago when I quit smoking, then the past 4 years let me gain weight and now the hormones. I'm not happy to be in a bathing suit anymore and try to avoid that. My friends and family which are also in hormonal change all say "I don't have any issues" and that is very much the end of the conversation about this issue. Of course I see they also gained weight but I guess they just don't want to talk about it. I would really love to have a friend who would honestly talk about their issues with me. But there is nothing I can do about it. You are so right - before we can work on those changes - we need to accept what is right now and find selflove before anything can change. Thank you so much for bringing that up. I wish you all the best and a great time with your friends. Take care! 💝

[@matten_zero]

Thank you for sharing (as always).

[@denisebutler-bowen6426]

Chani, You inspire me. I found your channel in the last few months as I navigated some major life changes…a health crisis, abrupt retirement, the selling of my home and purchase of a smaller condominium. The sharing of your experience of moving to Japan has motivated me to make changes in my life and build a life I love. So interested in all you share about your life in Japan. Oh! I have a cat as well. His name is Ivan. Keep doing what you do. You are living your best authentic life.

[@ChaniJapan]

I hope things have settled for you now. Give Ivan a pat from me 🐱

[@Taiyaki4Me]

Good for you for venturing into the onsen culture. We were very uneasy the first time we went, but now, a trip to Japan just doesn’t seem complete unless an onsen visit is included. Love that you had a wonderful little road trip with your friends. Healthy friendships are a blessing! Thank you, Chani, for another glimpse into your life in Japan.

[@natalieyoung6]

Wow the telephone box is so beautiful. I saw a cross in there , someone has a beautiful heart ❤️

[@YoureNowOnTV]

Thanks for sharing. Loved that last shot showing you setting it up before the walking action! 😁👍

[@Psychommuniter]

As I said in other videos, I love your channel and your sincerity. Don't blame on you, you look pretty! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and life, and thanks for all your work filming and editing videos, I hope you can make a lifeway of this. Thanks for all, and sorry for my autodidact English.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@Julie-ii9px]

Great video. We are brought up to judge and dislike our bodies sadly. Kudos to you and your friends, looks like it was a lovely trip. Love the skirt btw.

[@renanugent4200]

Thank you Chani for sharing about your onsen experience. I love your down to earth way of describing everyday life in Japan.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@Katharine-000]

Great video. We splurged a little on a hotel with an onsen on a recent trip to tokyo and I practically lived in there, i loved it so much. At least 3 dunks a day, so wonderful after miles of walking in the cold. And you’re so right that nobody is looking at you, and honestly who wants to be encased in clingy wet swimwear anyway!

[@mickanderson3593]

I remember being nervous the first time in the onsen up in Niigata on a snow trip. a sneaky beer or two before we went in helped, but as you said everybody was just enjoying their time there.Since then I'll get the gear off no worries.

[@ChaniJapan]

🍻good thinking

[@loveameliarose]

Another great video. I've also dealt with body image concerns over the years, especially with my weight. I have also lost a few long-term friendships, so I often feel I don't have many close support people to turn to - however, I have found solace with marching to the beat of my own drum and doing things for me with little worry of judgement. Glad you had a good time with your friends and adventuring! PS - Cat spam is always appreciated =)

[@-MINILIFE-]

Refreshing yourself in a hot spring is a good thing.　There has also been a custom of long-term stay and medical treatment called "Toji" for a long time to recover from illness or injury.

[@clairey9414]

Thank you for making this video! I feel like this was a message I needed to hear today ❤ thanks for touching on the topic of women's body image - I really resonated with what you had to say

[@ChaniJapan]

I'm so glad!

[@takashi8118]

My first comment here! I live in Okinawa now and I like it here, but I do miss mainland Japan a lot. I've never been to Wakayama, but your videos make me wanna go there. Thanks for your inspiring videos!!

[@TheGlashare]

Just subbed after watching some of your videos. I hope your authenticity is contagious :)

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks for subbing!

[@SoulCareOver50]

Menopause definitely makes it harder to lose weight or stay toned. I started going back to gym in February and it makes a difference. I have learnt to say, 'It is what it is,' when I look in the mirror 😊

[@DtlaDaisy]

Hi chani, thanks so much for sharing this video and for your encouraging words. I'm 42 and started perimenopause a few years ago. Since then i avoided looking at my body in the mirror because it made me sad/mad. My body has changed so much and despite my efforts to eat healthier, be more active, it's like the hormones don't care and they are more powerful than anything. I am trying to accept so i can change for the better but it is tough. ❤

[@ChaniJapan]

You got this! I know exactly what you are talking about ❤️

[@MissiBoo]

The telephone booth at the cliff is such a heart warming thing to see and that people have left money for that life saving call 🤗❤️ You're spot on with weight and your words of encouragement really helped me, thank you 😊 I hope that your rosacea clears soon. I have rosacea and am currently having laser treatment on it. I'm really enjoying your videos on your journey in Japan ⛩️🎎🌸 Thank you ♥️

[@feelalittlepressure]

Another intelligent, thoughtful, and entertaining video!!!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you kindly!

[@coho-kn1pc]

Thanks for this video. Went to the same place about 1 and a half years ago. Loved that beach though it was December and too cold for swimming. Tore tore was neat but it was very busy as many locals take their holidays at that time. We even stayed at the same Onsen.

[@ChaniJapan]

Very cool!

[@masayokuze1627]

Hi Chani, how funny you moved to my hometown, Wakayama, and I live in Melbourne,Australia. I watched every single video you’ve posted and realised how fortunate I was to have grown up in Wakayama. Thank you so much for inspiring me ! Looking forward to seeing your next video and more !

[@ChaniJapan]

That is funny. Like we swapped places!

[@vicky83614]

I really love your channel. You are a very honest and open person, and your videos are both relaxing and insightful to watch. Thank you😊

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@Bearcub599]

I so admire your courage in trying out Onsen! I used to get invited to visit one of those Onsen but I can never get over the fact that we have to be totally naked. It is very uncomfortable and difficult for some of us for various reasons (PTSD being one of them). I personally feel strongly that they should allow swimming costumes for those who want to. And of course for those who are happy bathing naked should be allowed to do so too. Hope the rules will change soon so that everyone can enjoy the beauty and the benefits of healing Onsen in Japan! So pleased you enjoyed your trip and wishing you a speedy recovery from your skin infection xxx

[@GayeWilliamson]

Thankyou for sharing. I couldn't be naked in any country as always had issues with body image. There is onsen on the ship cruise around Japan but might use the one that people wear their bathers. Need confidence definitely. Am proud of your outlook.

[@capitalb5889]

Really, once you are there, it just feels fine and people lose their inhibitions. Remember, you also get a small towel to hide your modesty when not in the water.

[@martasonia]

Thank you so much for this emotional self acceptance journey you are sharing with us!

[@niccat7051]

Thank you for another great video and sharing your story and deep thoughts!! As a naturist myself and my partner have talked to many people about body image and how shedding clothing transforms us into something more meaningful, more self confident; clothing is just a layer of fashion and practicality. We have stood naked on naturist beaches with people of all shapes and sizes from across the social spectrum and one subject that pops up constantly is how shedding a layer of clothing empowers people, people who had massive insecurities about their bodies feel free and confident after knocking down the wall of self doubt! It is a very simple thing to do, to take off our clothes, look the world in the face and say, yep, this my body; I can’t hear or care what you think about it!! I think you are that person, you have already done amazing things and you have nothing to worry about!!

[@Curious-traveler]

Onsen experience kind of changed my life, it’s an experience it’s hard to explain but it’s about being comfortable with myself. I’ll be spending my 60th this November in Nyuto Onsen in Akita

[@septartes]

Thank you for your lovely video and your honesty! You're asking whether we would have dear friends that we can open ourselves to. Well, actually, currently I haven't really. But since I am quite spiritual, I know that I can ALWAYS rely upon and open up to my very own soul as well as my soul family. They will always accept me, however I may be. And it wouldn't do any harm to any of you if you also open yourselves up to your souls and your soul families. Just thank them for their continuous support throughout your current life and all of your lifes.

[@frogkaeru8259]

Aloha, I love your videos!!!! So real, down to earth and not dramatic like others. In 2014 our family friends took us to the Oedo Onsen in Odaiba (it has closed down since Covid), for the afternoon. Our 2nd daughter refused to go into the onsen because you needed to be naked. Our friends reassured her that no one would be looking at her or anyone else. They also said to keep our eyes at neck and above, this way you respect others too. After 15 minutes we finally got her to go and she loved it, the rest of us too! Then we couldn't get her to leave 😂Our oldest daughter who was 14 at the time said, "mom, if anyone has low self- esteem or worried about their body not being perfect, they need to come to an onsen, it will help them to cast aside all their anxieties and level up their self-esteem." I agree. In 2018 we visited Japan again and went to SpaWorld's onsen, and loved it there too. We went to a sento, and that's the only place I got a shock when a lady there said "OMG" because I guess she was surprised to see a foreigner 😂You are fabulous and brave for making such a huge change at this point in your life. May you continue to be well, and share your story with everyone! Mahalo!

[@ChaniJapan]

So glad your daughters could experience the onsen and get a valuable lesson 🩷

[@erikop817]

Thank you for your videos! Please keep uploading. You are inspiring so many people! I am learning so much through your videos on how one lives in Japan as a foreigner.

[@ChaniJapan]

I'm so glad!

[@kazuwilliams5222]

I love onsen and my supportive community. Thanks again for the inspirational video.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks for watching!

[@waterwitch8902]

Every video you put up gives me such a calming feeling. Brava to you for doing this for yourself. Stay healthy, happy and safe always 😊

[@Smithcraft1]

I've really wanted to go to an onsen on a future trip, but with all my body image issues I figured it's something I would never do and I'm still not sure I would, but this video gives me hope that I might actually try it!

[@leaper2294]

I am so happy that you have friends who support you and help you grow. You are brave and beautiful. Thank-you for sharing your journey.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@debbiegarber5348]

Continually inspired by your videos and your journey. Thanks for sharing.

[@_bess]

This is a lovely video! Thank you for sharing!

[@ChaniJapan]

You are so welcome!

[@elizabethhafferty1200]

Being 56 years old and "fluffy", I never considered going to onsen on my trip to Japan last year. The thought of being naked, and being a foreigner, the thought was just distressing. I really appreciate you sharing how things went for you. I would love to live in Japan, and make friends as you have, but I may only be able to visit. Next time, I will consider making the trek to this lovely area you visited and going to onsen. As of right now, I would likely be going solo, which I am not happy about. I traveled with my son the last time. Sharing special things just aren't as special without someone to share it with.

[@Underthecrown]

Courage, friend :) I’m also going to Japan solo soon and although it may not have been my first choice either, I hope we can both manage to push through and enjoy the freedom it gives

[@james7149]

I want to thank you for this well timed video. I’ll be in Japan this June (first time) and plan to make Onsens a great priority. I’ve been a little daunted by the going natural aspect of this wonderful opportunity in Japan. However, your words of experience and wisdom have changed my feelings to a positive approach and I’m sure once my first Onsen experience is past, I’ll be fine. So appreciate your channel, with gratitude!

[@SonderZensei]

Another great 'slice of life' video. I'm 51 and not ageing particularly well so it's all very relatable. My only friends are Pokemon go friends from Japan😅. I've never met them and Pokemon Go doesn't have a chat feature. Perfect for an extreme introvert like me. It's great that you have supportive friends and you are developing a nice new life for yourself. Do you like to watch other Australian KZbinrs living in Japan? I also enjoy watching Real Rural Japan.

[@ilhamkoubaa77]

Thanks for sharing. I hope you feel better ❤

[@ChaniJapan]

It’s getting better. Thanks ❤️

[@larryberman1113]

Many years ago, while visiting Yokosuka with a lady friend, she asked me to accompany her to a local bathhouse, known as an "ofuro" (お風呂), as evening approached. As a Westerner, I felt a bit nervous. Men entered through one door, and women through another. Inside, there was a small communal soaking tub and washing stations where you were expected to thoroughly wash yourself before soaking. The men would soak, talk, and laugh, enjoying a great social time together. Meanwhile, a mama-san was present to collect all the discarded towels and washcloths. It was a unique glimpse into Japanese culture.

[@tourguidecjcu5985]

As always, you touched upon an Important issue of the body image. Thank you for this wonderful video sharing Wakayama in the cloudy day, Which is still beautiful and the talk.

[@ChaniJapan]

Many thanks!

[@JP-ve7or]

Whew. As an American, the most interesting part was your visit to the dermatologist's office, how fast and inexpensive it was!

[@picassojack]

Hi Chani! I've recently been made aware of your videos and I'm enjoying them all so much, a lot of really relatable thoughts and concerns, so thank you for your videos. Specifically this one, I'm a really skinny guy and have had lot's of body doubts over the course of my life. This is such a lovely spin on how to think about the onsen's and public bathing in Japan, I'll carry this with me should I ever return to Japan, thank you.

[@jhazimih]

Chani! You are truly my inspiration! Love all your videos!