Japan is renowned as the “Kingdom of Hot Springs.” The country boasts not only a large number of hot springs but also a high quality of them. Almost every region has its famous hot springs. For Japanese people, bathing in hot springs is both a pleasure and an essential part of life.
In Japan, there are many options for enjoying hot springs. You can choose your destination based on your preferred bathing style and the type of spring water.
1. Ways to Enjoy Hot Springs
Indoor Public Hot Springs: These are public baths at hot spring ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) that offer either a stay with hot spring bathing or a pure hot spring experience. There are two types:
– Source Hot Springs: These use hot spring water that is only used once and then discarded.
– Circulating Hot Springs: These use filtered hot spring water that is continuously recycled.
Outdoor Hot Springs: These are hot spring baths located outdoors, allowing you to enjoy beautiful views while bathing.
Private Hot Spring Baths: These are hot springs available within ryokan rooms, with both indoor and outdoor options. The main feature is privacy, allowing you to enjoy the experience without sharing the space with strangers.
Foot Baths: These provide a convenient way to enjoy hot springs without removing your clothes. They are often found on hot spring streets, in parks, or at train stations. Some specialty izakayas (Japanese pubs) or cafes also feature foot baths.
Lay-Down Baths: These baths allow you to lie down and have the hot spring water envelop your entire body like a blanket. Lying down helps improve blood circulation to the heart, providing a more relaxing experience compared to sitting baths.
2. Types of Hot Spring Waters
Simple Springs: These are the most common type of hot springs in Japan. Despite being called “simple springs”, they are not just plain water. With lower mineral concentrations, these springs are gentle on the skin, making them suitable for most people, including the elderly and children.
Representative location: Yufuin Onsen Town in Oita Prefecture.
Acidic Springs: Known for their strong antibacterial properties, acidic springs are effective for treating scars and chronic skin conditions. They also help remove dead skin cells, offering additional skin benefits. However, they are not suitable for those with open wounds or sensitive skin. After bathing in acidic springs, it is essential to rinse your body thoroughly with clean water.
Representative location: Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture.
Alkaline Springs: Often referred to as “beauty baths,” alkaline springs are popular among women. They help clean pores, remove dead skin cells, and can effectively lighten spots, leaving the skin smooth and silky.
Representative location: Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture.
Sulfur Springs: These springs have a strong sulfur smell and distinctive color. The steam from sulfur springs helps clear throat bacteria and treat bronchial conditions. They promote blood circulation, benefit heart and skin health, and have detoxifying effects.
Representative locations: Beppu Hachiyu in Oita Prefecture and Noboribetsu Onsen in Hokkaido.
Iron Springs: The water in iron springs turns red or brown when exposed to air due to its iron content. Bathing in these springs can help alleviate anemia and menopausal symptoms and improve blood circulation.
Representative locations: Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture and Niseko Yumoto Onsen in Hokkaido.
3. Tips for Bathing in Hot Springs
While bathing in hot springs is beneficial for health, it is important not to overdo it. Ideally, limit your hot spring baths to no more than three times a day. Avoid bathing on an empty stomach or immediately after eating or drinking alcohol to prevent issues like anemia, indigestion, or cardiovascular problems.
Before entering a hot spring, start by pouring hot water over your body to gradually adapt to the temperature and avoid sudden blood pressure changes. Begin with a half-body bath and, once your body has adjusted, proceed to a full-body bath. If using an outdoor hot spring, warm up indoors before moving outside.
You will sweat a lot while bathing in hot springs, which can lead to dehydration. It’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
After leaving the hot spring, avoid washing off all the mineral deposits on your skin; let them be absorbed gradually. However, if you have sensitive skin or mucous membranes, it is advisable to rinse your body with a shower. The effects of the hot spring continue even after you leave, so it’s best to rest for an hour to fully benefit from the experience.
