I've visited hot springs dozens of times, but one experience was by far the best. I stayed at a 400 year old onsen hotel in late winter(feb) with a private bath

I've visited hot springs dozens of times, but one experience was by far the best. I stayed at a 400 year old onsen hotel in late winter(feb) with a private bath on the balcony overseeing a river in the mountains. The loud white noise of the river, the terrible insulation and sleeping on the floor made the night not the most comfortable. But when I woke up early and went to the balcony I tested the water with my feet. It was still 40 degrees and it felt amazing in contrast to the chilly mountain air. I couldn't help but to throw my robe off and enjoy the bath fully submerged. I only had an hour until checkout, but that sense of the moment slipping out of your hands made it all the more precious.