Travelling through Japan, Onsen are one of the major destinations for quiet rural getaways. Many towns have grown up entirely around their onsen, which are famed for health benefits as well as the rest and relaxation they provide. But going into an onsen is an involved process: There is etiquette to follow, many onsen have policies against tattoos, and of course, at the very least, you have to change out of your clothing and pay to go in. But virtually none of the above applies to the humble foot bath. "Ashiyu" in Japanese, these mini-onsen for your feet can be found around the country in many onsen towns, and are often free and available for public use. It is a testament to Japan's excellent public order that these baths, available for free to everyone, are clean and well maintained. It couldn't be much simpler to use the bath. Take off your shoes and socks, roll up your sleeves if needed, and there you go! Just soaking your feet can be a surprisingly relaxing experience, and you couldn't ask for a lower barrier to entry. As a courtesy to others, practice common sense if your feet are muddy or dirty, but otherwise you can't go wrong. Generally there are no towels available, so it is good to have your own, especially if you are visiting in winter.