Shizuoka, Yamanashi & Nagano Hot Spring Sauna Journey

I already knew that the saunas of Yamanashi and Nagano were incredibly hot — worthy of being called sacred sauna grounds. Thanks to the extraordinary natural water cycle centered around Mt. Fuji and the Northern and Southern Alps, pristine water wells up everywhere. Just thinking about sinking into those cold plunge baths sends a shiver of excitement down my spine. I also dreamed of sitting in a sauna while gazing out at Mt. Fuji — and I wanted that dream to come true. To fulfill that desire, the ultimate journey of a lifetime was about to begin. First, let me take you to Sauna Shikiji, home to what many consider Japan's finest cold plunge bath.