The first Japanese onsen, where several patrons relax naked together in the mineral-rich water, has opened in the United States. – Uptrends

One of Japan’s largest luxury hotel companies is planning to open an onsen hot spring resort in upstate New York, which it says will be the first Japanese-run project of its kind in the United States.

Japanese spring baths – baths where patrons relax naked together in mineral-rich water of varying temperatures – are a major local industry beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Hoshino Resorts said it will open its new lodge in the small town of Sharon Springs in 2028, marking its second foray into the world’s largest economy after failing to win over North America during Japan’s boom years in the 1980s.

“The biggest lesson we learned in the 1980s is that if a Japanese hotel operator wants to enter the American market, it must meet strong expectations that its concept reflects Japanese culture,” the company said Thursday in a statement.

“This move will mark the first opening of an onsen in the United States by a Japanese hotel company,” she added.

Sharon Springs was once a vibrant hot spring and tourist hub but needs revitalization after losing its glory over the past 100 years – making it the ideal location for a new hotel, Hoshino Resorts said.

The ryokan will include up to 70 rooms for guests, according to Japanese media.