How Japan changed my attitude to semi-public nudity
An 11-day pilgrimage to 27 temples in a corner of the country few foreigners have heard of delivered so much more than it seemed to offer to this walker.
As the mini-bus pulled up at our accommodation in Japan’s Iya Valley, two suited employees offered the gaudily coloured vehicle deep bows. It was a nice touch, I thought, for what looked, at first glance, like your average traditional Japanese hotel.
My perception began to shift when the elegant manageress, in a kimono and slippers, joined the welcoming party. Over the following 16 hours, our gang of six weary walkers would be treated to hospitality at the Hotel Kazurabashi of a quality that I can’t imagine I will enjoy again.
Aaron PatrickSenior correspondentAaron Patrick is the senior correspondent. He writes about politics and business from the Sydney newsroom. Email Aaron at apatrick@afr.com
