In Japan, Hot Springs Smell of Chocolate, Wine, Sake, Tea & Coffee {The 5th Sense in the News}

The Times online looks at a new sensational twist on traditional communal bathing in Japan. What could feel better than marinating in a hot pool? To have red wine, green tea, coffee, rice alcohol and dark chocolate enhance the experience. It is not only about aromas (it is verboten to drink the concoctions), but also about deriving benefits from the anti-aging properties of green tea and coffee or get a major warming "friction" from sake.....

The Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Spa, which opened in 2001, describes itself a "hot springs amusement park and spa resort"; their latest introduction is the "soup noodle spa". We bet the starchy water must be very softening for the skin.

Watch video on A Spa Where You Bathe in Chocolate, Wine, and Coffee

What bath would you like to try most if you were to visit the spa? Would you like to try this at home?