Elegant Strolls to Japanese Hot Springs & Onsen Q&A

By MOOK Editorial Department
 
When it comes to what represents Kyushu, aside from the mouthwatering local cuisine, hot springs are likely the first thing that comes to mind. One of the greatest joys of exploring Kyushu is touring various hot spring towns, letting the warm waters with different therapeutic properties and mineral compositions soothe weary minds and bodies. Whether you enjoy an elegant time in an open-air bath, the refined elegance of a ryokan, the diverse charms of a hot spring town, comparing unique atmospheres, or strolling through hot spring streets for shopping and sampling local specialties, there are countless ways to enjoy Kyushu’s hot springs. Familiarize yourself with the following onsen tips to make your hot spring trip more relaxing.

How many times a day can you soak in an onsen?
Japanese people staying at a hot spring ryokan often enjoy “one night, two meals, three soaks,” with the three soaks referring to one before dinner, one after dinner, and one the next morning. The ideal soaking duration varies by individual, but is generally around 20–30 minutes. However, more stimulating springs such as sulfur or acidic springs shouldn’t be soaked in for too long, as they may cause rashes. Additionally, during cold weather, avoid going to bed shortly after soaking or going outside right after leaving the onsen.

Who should avoid soaking in an onsen?
People in the early or late stages of pregnancy, those with fevers, or individuals with heart disease or vascular conditions should not soak in an onsen rashly. Soaking in an onsen after drinking alcohol is also very dangerous—doing so immediately after drinking can lead to cerebral hemorrhage, especially if drunk, in which case you must wait until you’ve sobered up before soaking.

How should you soak in a hot spring?
When visiting a public bath to soak in an onsen, you can change into a yukata and slippers. Most large public baths do not provide towels, so bring your own or take one from your room. Outside the bathing area is the changing room. First, store valuables in a locker, then undress completely. Once inside the bathing area, wash your body first. Before getting into the hot spring, you can scoop water to pour over your body to adjust to the temperature, starting from your feet, knees, waist, hands, shoulders, to your chest—that is, starting from the parts farthest from your heart to avoid a spike in blood pressure after entering. When you officially begin soaking, it’s recommended to start with half-body immersion to get used to the water, preventing excessive stimulation from the spring temperature and water pressure.

Also, when heading to the bathing area, you may bring a small towel to cover private areas. Once in the bath, place the towel on your head or by the pool—but do not dip it in the water. Also remember to tie up your hair before entering the bath. After soaking, decide whether to rinse your body depending on the spring’s mineral content or your skin type. Additionally, because you sweat a lot during a soak, remember to rehydrate afterwards and rest for about 30 minutes.