Outdoor bathing offers a very Japanese experience

There are myriad attractions in the Daylesford/Hepburn Springs region of Victoria - with the latest a traditional Japanese bathing ritual in a new outdoor cedar bath at Shizuka Ryokan.

In Japan, bathing is much more than the chance to scrube yourself clean. It is akin to a meditative practice – a time to renew, revive, relax, and cleanse the soul.

Bathing is viewed as a time and place to wash away the cares and worries of the day.

Shizuka’s outdoor cedar bath complements its existing wellness offerings, which include yoga, meditation, and relaxation. Visitors can pair these with a stay in their authentic Japanese-style guest rooms, while enjoying Japanese cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

It is set on four acres of bushland and guest rooms feature futon bedding, tatami straw matting, shoji rice paper sliding screens, tokonoma alcoves, zaisu chairs, zabuton cushions and kotatsu low tables.

There are just six guest rooms in all - and the vibe is not entirely Japanese. The grounds are often visited by kangaroos, echidnas and native birdlife.

For details see https://shizuka.com.au/