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With the manager Mitsuru Tsuruta, in the diner

We visited Sendaitaki Onsen "Kyodoyu (Public Bath)" in Yuda-cho, Satsumasendai. It is said that this onsen is one of the most favourites of Takamori Saigo. The woody signboard in the centre of the picture was created and donated by a frequent bather.

The compartments are open, there is no locker; however, the dressing room is connected with the bathroom (there is nothing to separate these two rooms). Thus, you can keep an eye on your clothes and valuables while you are bathing.

The water is really hot, but the touch is smooth. They say that, if you use this water, men do not need a skin lotion after shaving, and women can comb the hair smoothly. When you soak in the bath, the point is "Do NOT rush." At first, soak in the hot water to get accustomed to the temperature, and then move to the really hot water. Also, do NOT pour cool water into the bath, that will worsen the water quality and is against the manners in a Japanese bath.

The water flowing out of the faucet is really hot. Even for Japanese people, it is really hot. There are two hot spring sources in this area, they are mixed together and then distributed to the each onsen house. The water is drinkable, and is good for stomach flu.

He has been coming to this bath for 80 years since he was born. He told us "See you again in Kyodoyu!"

He is the manager Mitsuru. He says managing an onsen is a tough job, but seeing and chatting with bathers are delightful. He has an outgoing personality, actually he gave us a beer after our interview. We had a very good time talking to him. If you visit Sendaitaki Onsen, we recommend you to find and get in touch with him.