The sand steam bathing in Kagoshima Pref.
While Japanese onsens (hot springs) are famous around the world, sand steaming baths, sunamushi-buro, are still relatively unknown abroad. Yet the principle is quite similar, the sand, just like water, is naturally hot thanks to the nearby volcanic sources. If we are not generally reluctant to be immersed in the water, being buried in the sand may seem uncomfortable for some, this practice is becoming more and more popular. So how does it work?
A young woman enjoying the sand bath
Upon arrival, you will have to wear a traditional yukata (light kimono often worn at festivals or traditional inns) that will be provided on the site. Staff will guide you to your "sand bed" and then cover you up to the neck. We usually stay about twenty minutes buried and the sensation is so nice that we tend to fall asleep.
Sand baths, according to several studies, have an extremely positive effect on health, especially on blood pressure, rheumatism, back pain ... This is also the main reason why they are so visited, because many people certify that they had an immediate effect on their pain.
Sakurajima volcano erupting
The atmosphere is even more relaxing and relaxing than ever before. It is in Kagoshima prefecture, and particularly in Ibusuki, that these baths are the most popular, and in particular admire Sakurajima, one of the volcanoes the more active Japan, so You may be lucky enough to see one of its eruptions. From Ibusuki you can also admire Kaimon-dake, nicknamed Satsuma (current west part of Kagoshima) Fuji.
Mount Kaimon seen from Ibusuki
Otherwise, for those who unfortunately would not have planned a detour to Kagoshima in their itinerary, it is also possible to try these baths in the Gunma prefecture, right next to Tokyo, or in Beppu, in the prefecture of Oita, even further south than Kagoshima.