Japanese hot springs unveil new visitor experiences

The Sarutō Onsen “Kinsen no Yu” in Toyoda City, Aichi Prefecture, was selected for the “Nifty Onsen 100” list for 2026, highlighting its rare drinkable natural radon water and related tourism services. The facility promotes the therapeutic benefits of drinking, inhaling, and soaking in the mineral‑rich water, and has expanded its offerings to include bottled spa water, food products and accommodation.

Meanwhile, a group of day‑spa facilities in Saitama Prefecture launched a summer‑time “non‑sensation bathing” program, offering lukewarm baths that match body temperature to reduce heat strain and support heat‑acclimation as a heat‑stroke preventive measure. The initiative runs from July 1, 2026, across several locations including Tamagawa Onsen and other local onsen‑cafés.