Pembroke Springs, the Japanese Bath in Virginia

I was in Washington D.C. this weekend (many thanks to Adamu, my most gracious host!), and we had the chance to visit the only Japanese-style hot bath east of the Mississippi. Situated 90 miles from the national capital near the Virginia/West Virginia border, Pembroke Springs is run by a former Japan-based US government employee and his wife, a Tokyo native.

When I say “onsen,” it was not a natural hot spring. But it was remarkably authentic nonetheless.

And it was truly isolated. The view was beautiful from the bath, and you can look on to the field, woods, and mountains, all situated on the property of more than 120 acres.

You can read more here, and its highly recommended for those looking for a little slice of Japan in the American South.