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Vol.95 Hot
Springs |
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Mar.03,2026 |
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Two years ago, I had a chance to talk again to the chairman of a local company that offers a wide range of services. Since we are in the same age group and share similar business backgrounds, this third meeting lasted about three hours. Of the many interesting stories, the one about hot springs left a strong impression on me.
Hot spring resorts, including Hakone, have seen a decline in hot spring output due to a long history of drilling. Since some areas require drilling to depths of up to 1,000 meters, Kanagawa Prefecture decided to prohibit the drilling of new hot springs.
The same situation applies to Shizuoka Prefecture, including Atami and other resort areas. Due to shortages of hot spring water, hot spring hotels and ryokan inns filter and reuse hot water in baths. Some inns, with only six or seven guest rooms, have their own wells and offer 100% natural hot spring water, but are expensive.
Since strict sanitary standards are in place for hot spring filtration, there is little concern about safety. Nevertheless, when I see TV personalities pouring hot spring water over their heads in large public baths on travel programs and praising how wonderful the water is, I have mixed feelings.
Minerals in hot spring water can be absorbed through the skin and may help maintain health, so it is generally fine to rinse off with a shower after bathing. At some hot spring resorts along the shoreline, the water contains so much salt that it can cause itching and interfere with sleep unless it is rinsed off thoroughly.
The mineral content, such as sulfur and iron, varies depending on the resort area, and it is rare for the water to be drinkable. Even when it is safe enough, a small amount of oil may be mixed into the water, as most areas pump it up from wells through pipes using motors. Therefore, hot spring water is generally not recommended for drinking.
However, there is no need to worry too much—just enjoy hot springs, one of Japan's favorite traditions.
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