Onsens are quickly becoming commonplace in spa treatments within Thailand. Many favour the serene spa experience that it offers, making it a regular treatment that they inculcate into their lifestyles. However, as a new trend, many do question what onsens have to offer. Read on to find out, as well as our top recommendations on onsens to visit in Bangkok.
What is the Onsen experience like?
- In Japan, onsen baths are popular due to the geothermal activity of hot springs which hold hot and therapeutic mineral water. This offers restfulness and wellness to visitors.
- In Thailand, this experience is recreated by adjusting the pool of water to a specific temperature and by incorporating the particular mineral composition.
What are the benefits of the Onsen experience?
- The onsen incorporates the natural minerals of sodium bicarbonate and calcium. While being in the water, these minerals get sucked into our bodies. The properties of these minerals aid accelerated blood flow and the volume of oxygen within our blood.
- The water offers alleviation of muscle aches and the calming ambience of the Japanese hot spring provides relaxation. These offer better sleep quality and to lower stress levels.
- The heat provided in these onsens and the exuberance of the water help to mitigate muscle pains and aches.
- Folklore presents how onsens help to adorn the skin, through the minerals present in the water. The composition of sulfur in the water is also known to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
What should I expect from an onsen experience?
- This varies by the outlet! Most onsens in Thailand are single-gender, but do check to be certain!
- A kind note to visitors is to refrain from the consumption of alcohol prior to the onsen experience. The heat from the onsen and the alcohol consumed could cause negative side effects such as dehydration, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitations and the potential of worse.
- Prior to entering the tub, visitors are expected to clean themselves with the shower and bathing facilities in the spas.
- The onsens in Thailand have 2 options : communal and private. Choose your spas according to your preference!
- For communal onsens, swimwear may be required whilst for single-gender/private onsens, visitors are usually nude.
- Onsens are visited for relaxation, the atmosphere is quiet and visitors are expected to maintain a calm demeanor.
Top Onsen recommendations by us!
In Bangkok, onsens are plentiful. These are our favorite picks!
Yunomori Onsen & Spa
- The first highlight of Yunomori Onsen is that there are various activities available, not just hot spring baths. There are also comfortable relaxation rooms with sofas and power outlets, a semi-rooftop café offering luxurious Japanese cuisine such as salmon, wagyu beef, tea, coffee, and desserts. Just putting on a beautiful yukata, strolling around, relaxing, and enjoying the café is already a delightful experience.
- Another highlight of Yunomori Onsen is its spaciousness and gender-segregated communal baths. There are six different baths, with average temperatures ranging from 38-43°C, all using natural hot spring water sourced from Ranong, a province known for having some of the purest water in Thailand.
Book Yunomori Onsen!
Kashikiri Onsen & Spa
- Kashikiri Onsen and Spa, a private, authentic Japanese-style onsen that provides a true Japanese experience without the need to undress in front of others.
- Unlike other onsens that offer day passes, Kashikiri Onsen operates on a time-based fee of 700 THB for 45 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, staff will notify you to prepare for your shower and enjoy a light snack afterward.
- In addition to the onsen, Kashikiri Onsen and Spa also offers Thai massage, foot massage, and aromatherapy. It’s said that the service is exceptional.
Let’s Relax Spa
- The onsen features five different baths, with an average temperature of around 40-42°C. Onsen enthusiasts often mention that Let’s Relax Onsen is known for its truly hot mineral water, as it follows traditional Japanese customs. Not only is the water hot, but you are also required to remove all clothing, with only a small towel to cover minimal areas.
Book Let’s Relax Spa now!
Panpuri Wellness Spa & Onsen
- The onsen zone at Panpuri was designed by renowned Japanese architect Nobuhiro Nakamura from the famous design firm A-Asterisk, ensuring that everything adheres to the principles of its Japanese origins. They offer both communal and private baths.
- Another key feature of Panpuri Wellness is the breathtaking view. While soaking in the onsen on the 12th floor, you can look out through the glass windows to see the Ratchaprasong area. But there’s no need to worry about privacy, as the glass is designed so that only those inside can see out; it’s not possible to see into the onsen from outside. For those who prefer not to be fully nude in public, Panpuri also provides disposable underwear for both men and women.
Book Panpuri Wellness Spa & Onsen now!
All in all, onsens are rising in popularity amongst visitors and locals within Thailand. This is greatly owed to the multitude of benefits as covered in this article. While it may be daunting to visit an onsen, hopefully the tricks listed above will make the experience easier! If anything, the spas are more than willing to help you out.
To get the best deals and for the ease of booking experience, book your onsen session via the ThaiHand platform!
