Japan is a volcanically active country,
and as such, Onsen have been used since
olden times and are mentioned in Japanese
legends and mythologies. Descriptions are
found in reknowned Japanese texts such as;
Kojiki, Nihonshoki , and Many^osy^u .
During the Kamakura and Sengoku era
(12th-17th century), records indicate that
the samurai healed their wounds there. In
the Edo era (17th-19th century), the culture
of onsens spread to common people. In the
Meiji era (early 20th century), scientific
studies began and by the Sh^owa era (mid
20th century) the medical benefits of Onsen
were proven.
Through the years, more and more people
come to use onsens for different reasons.
Today people enjoy them not only for
medical treatment but also for sightseeing,
socializing, and leisure. Onsens are a
multipurpose place to have a great time.
Because of their long histories, onsen tend to be steeped in local myth and legend. These stories are usually about how the hot spring was discovered or founded; some are far-fetched, but all are entertaining. One of the great things about travelling to a hitou is to sit down and listen to the owner tell stories surrounding the history of the spring.