A Snapshot of My Other Writings, and Media
Ryokan Wanderings began as creative outlet during the pandemic, to return a bit to a childhood dream of wanting to write (my goodness the fantasy/sci-fi stories I used to write - still makes me chuckle). It was a personal challenge to myself to see if I could still put pen to paper so to speak and convey something of meaning, of interest that evoked feelings in others to perhaps one day visit these stunning destinations, meet the people and just learn a little of what life can be like in Japan.
From there, it organically grew to writing for other publications, guest blogging and occasionally featuring in the Media. Here you can find links to my other works and appearances that I’m allowed to share publicly.
2025 saw me publish my first book with Gestalten globally; “ONSEN & RYOKAN OF JAPAN” - A 256pg hardcover stitchbound book filled with eloquent narratives, stunning photography detailing onsen ryokan experiences across the country, many that have never been heard of outside Japan. From the local, traditional, rustic, family run to opulent, modern & traditional luxurious premises, there is something for everyone.
Onsen & Ryokan of Japan
Reviews
FRANKFURTER ALLGEMEINE ZEITUNG | SEP 2025 | print
“..A magnificent volume, published by Gestalten and written by blogger Lia of Ryokanwanderings, now invites readers to immerse themselves in this world... the book presents the genesis and visions of the cities that have grown up around onsen...It portrays 48 onsen and their associated ryokan (traditional inns) in pictures and text... Across Japan’s prefectures, the book embarks on a spiritual quest for the absences of modernity. It particularly enjoys portraying ethereal landscapes... valuable digressions on onsen etiquette, kaiseki cuisine and the concept of preemptive hospitality “Omotenashi” round out the book. One emerges from this reading journey refreshed and enriched, as after an onsen bath, as if having learned a lesson in letting go.”
D-LA REPUBBLICA | OCT 2025 | print
“The book brings together a selection of the country’s most authentic hot spring resorts and inns with on-site baths (ryokans, precisely), offering a journey along the less traveled roads of the archipelago.”
VALET | OCT 2025 | online
“The best coffee table books in Fall 2025…. A visual and narrative journey through Japan's historic hot springs and traditional inns, revealing how their architectural grace, cultural rituals and harmonious union of nature and wellness define a contemplative way of life.”
NEW YORK TIMES | NOV 2025 | online
“TRANQUIL TOME: The world feels more full of noise and mess than usual these days, so let your tired mind be rinsed clean by the visual ASMR of 'Onsen and Ryokan of Japan,' an elegant, timeless tome on Japanese bathing culture. (Hot stones not included, but you can always bring your own.)”
WANDERLUST MAGAZINE | NOV 2025 | print
“…For all that experiencing Japan’s onsen (hot springs) and the ryokan inns) often attached to them appeals to most visitors, they can still be intimidating places, especially to first-timers who have never had a 15-course banquet (kaiseki) served in their room before. More traditional ryokans can come across as staid or inflexible to those unfamiliar with the time-worn etiquette they observe.
And while these inns may range in size from giant, modern hot spring complexes to small, family-run stays, by and large, they are places of formality, with standards, a culture and rules that are not immediately obvious to the outsider. This is why Gestalten’s new Onsen and Ryokan of Japan book is so hotly anticipated, as it promises a comprehensive guide to the history and culture of a side of Japanese life that has so much to offer.”
GLOBETROTTER | NOV 2025 | print
“ It boasts stunning photography of the many different options, the history of the locations, and a glimpse into the intricate architecture of the buildings themselves…This book can be read as a history and informative text of Japanese onsen and ryokan culture, but also details best times of year and unique features of individual establishments. Overall, a fascinating, inspirational book for those interested in the Japanese healing culture.”
ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST POLAND | NOV/DEC 2025 | print
“The culture of these places is showcased in the album "Onsen and Ryokan of Japan," prepared by the Gestalten publishing house in collaboration with expert Lia, author of the Ryokan Wanderings blog, a writer and clothing designer who can breathe new life into old kimonos. We travel to the most beautiful bathing areas and their accompanying hotels to enjoy the exquisite Japanese architecture and the charms of nature, from pale mornings to atmospheric evenings, from spring dusted with cherry blossom petals to snowy winter. Through the album, we discover both places where centuries-old customs are cultivated and completely modern interpretations of luxury. Indoors and outdoors, in the clouds of steam and in the cool waters of pools known as mizuburo. Beautiful photographs allow us to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of Japanese bathing areas and clear our minds without even leaving home.”
ELITE TRAVELLER | NOV 2025 | online
“The most interesting books to gift this holiday season… In Onsen and Ryokan of Japan Tokyo-based writer Lia combines photography and narrative to capture the architecture, interiors and rituals of these spaces, showing how these retreats balance tradition with modern design. The book is an ideal choice for anyone interested in Japanese culture, design, or is in the midst of planning a trip to the magical country.”
