"Onsen"

The Japanese Love Onsens

For Japanese, bathing is not only for cleaning, but to refresh the body and spirit. Baths come in several types, including house baths, Sento (simple public baths), and onsen . The popularity of the Onsen means they play a central role in Japanese domestic tourism. On weekends or vacation, Japanese people often go on an onsen - trip not only to relieve their fatigue but to enhance their mutual relationship with family, friends and co-workers.

What is Onsen ?

There are laws in place that regulate the definition, protection, etc. of an Onsen. According to these laws, an Onsen is defined as hot water and water vapor that springs from the Earth either naturally or from artificially-bored holes. The water temperature needs to be higher than 25℃.

However, meeting other conditions, the water can be cooler and still be authorized as an Onsen .

History of the Onsen

Japan is a volcanically active country, and as such, Onsen have been used since olden times and are mentioned in Japanese legends and mythologies. Descriptions are found in reknowned Japanese texts such as; Kojiki, Nihonshoki , and Manyo.

During the Kamakura and Sengoku era (12th-17th century), records indicate that the samurai healed their wounds there. In the Edo era (17th-19th century), the culture of onsens spread to common people. In the Meiji era (early 20th century), scientific studies began and by the Showa era (mid 20th century) the medical benefits of Onsen were proven.

Through the years, more and more people come to use onsens for different reasons. Today people enjoy them not only for medical treatment but also for sightseeing, socializing, and leisure. Onsens are a multipurpose place to have a great time. One of the reasons that Onsens are popular is because of the various health benefits people enjoy when using them .

Soothing your skin , easing stiff shoulders , and relaxing your muscles are just some of these effects .

Why are Onsens Effective?

The minerals contained in Onsen water have various effects. People call this effect To (hot spring healing, or balneotheraphy). A person can feel the effects of mineral water by bathing or by drinking. Only some Onsen are equipped to handle drinking water however, so please check the general guidelines or drinking permission statement before drinking the Onsen Mineral Water. Please do not drink from the bath water itself.

Generally, there are three different types of “rests” that can be appreciated at the onsen . They are as follows:

Rest for recreation: recovering from fatigue and becoming refreshed.

Rest for health: keeping a healthy condition and preventing against ailments

Rest for medical treatment: recuperation from ailments

Additional benefits include:

①Physical Effects:

The thermal energy stimulates your nervous system and your circulatory system. The water pressure activates your cardiopulmonary functions. The buoyancy makes it easy for the physically handicapped to bathe as well.

②Chemical Effects:

The minerals are absorbed through your skin into your body and provide various benefits.

③Change-of-Air Effects

A feeling of freedom from daily life as well as a comfortable atmosphere and natural view can refresh the spirit.

④Change-of-Condition Effects

By visiting the Onsen routinely, you can appreciate better health and improve your condition.