Towards a Nude Architecture

A deep dive into the hidden world of Japanese hot springs, from fabled origins to modern manifestations
Chronicling centuries of soaking through the eyes of an architect
How I learned to stop worrying and love the bath: reinvigorating the public realm with communal architecture

As one of the most volcanically active geographies in the world, the islands of Japan gush with nearly 30,000 naturally occurring hot springs, or onsen, of varying temperatures, colors, and mineral compositions. When superimposed over the country’s history, their timeline winds its way through ancient religions, warring empires, and modern day pop-culture, forming a vital part of the national identity.

Towards a Nude Architecture explores this narrative through an architectural lens, presenting a visual journey of water and steam spanning centuries and geographies. Across three chapters examining past, present, and future, the book looks at the spiritual roots of bathing, the diverse contemporary structures built around it, and the lasting influence of this poetic mingling between architecture, nature, and the naked body. Facing declining visitors and increased privatization, compounded by recent global crises, the need to promote and preserve these bastions of public space is more crucial than ever.