Take a Hot Sand Bath in Ibusuki
On these beaches on Kyushu Island, the sand heated by the surrounding springs promotes relaxation and offers health benefits.
© Natural Sand Bath
The sunamushi onsen is a bathing ritual undertaken by the Japanese people for several centuries. After a purifying stage in a classic bath of water, as is typical of the onsen tradition, individuals take their place under the colourful parasols on Ibusuki Beach, before being covered in sand all the way up to their neck by elderly women. The hot spring water from volcanoes in the region gushes under the beach and naturally infuses the sand with 55°C steam.
Ten minutes spent in these hot sand baths, heated by natural steam, offers guaranteed relaxation and considerable health benefits. Lying in this cocoon of sand is said to improve blood circulation and promote the elimination of toxins from the body, reducing respiratory problems and rheumatism.
More information about the Ibusuki sand baths can be found on their website.
© Natural Sand Bath
© Natural Sand Bath
TRENDING
-
The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
-
Shizuka Yokomizo, between Exhibitionism and Surveillance
'Dear Stranger' is the story of a troubling relationship between the photographer and the subject, who meet without seeing each other.
-
The Forest that Inspired 'Princess Mononoke' in Yakushima
This mountainous island is teeming with natural wonders, from beaches with star-shaped sand to a virgin forest that inspired Hayao Miyazaki.
-
Rituals of Ancient Gay Shunga Erotica
Shunga was prolific in Japan during the Edo period, with ‘nanshoku’ referring to the depiction of homosexual erotica.
-
Recipe for Ichiraku Ramen from ‘Naruto’ by Danielle Baghernejad
Taken from the popular manga with the character of the same name who loves ramen, this dish is named after the hero's favourite restaurant.
