Ofuro Cafe Utatane

Sometimes, all you really need is a day just for yourself. Just you, some coffee, a book, and a hot spring bath… That’s where Ofuro Cafe Utatane comes in, a perfect relaxation hybrid of cafe and spa based on a concept just wacky enough that it makes perfect sense.

Come in the morning for the breakfast buffet at the cafe, and then head towards the bath. Shower and then sink into the hot indoor bath, which has air jets for those sore muscles. Sweat in the sauna and then cool off in the cold water bath. Nip out for a cup of matcha and a slice of cake then go back in.

Try not to drop the rental books in the bath. Photo by Ofuro Cafe.

Enjoy the outdoor bath, which uses mineral-rich water from the Hakuju hot spring in Kamikawa, Saitama. If you pay extra, you can enjoy a variety of spa services like facials, massages and aromatherapy. Leave when you’re hungry again; the cafe has a great lunch and dinner menu too – a hearty vegetable curry, maybe, or a Japanese-Italian fusion of udon alla carbonara.

There are myriad ways to relax. Drink coffee with free refills in the lounge, or take a nap in a hammock. Use one of the Macs in the computer area and watch cute cat videos online. Read a book or manga from the library. Close your eyes and just listen to the music from the DJ booth.

You won’t ever want to leave so it’s a good job that you can stay overnight too. There’s a dormitory-style nap room if you don’t mind sharing with other sleepers, and regular rooms if you prefer more privacy.