Visitors experience Ibusuki Sand Baths in Kagoshima, Japan, where volcanic-heated sand improves circulation and detoxifies the body. (Photo by John S Lander/LightRocket via Getty Images).
EPICSTORIAN – Japan’s onsen crisis is worsening as rising tourism depletes natural hot spring water supplies, forcing officials to impose restrictions on usage.
More than 27,000 onsen sources exist across the country, but the growing number of visitors has put pressure on these natural resources.
Ureshino, a major hot spring destination in Saga Prefecture, is among the hardest hit, prompting officials to call for urgent conservation measures.
Deputy Mayor Hironori Hayase addressed the issue, saying, “Compared to before the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of tourists has increased, which led to greater hot spring usage at ryokans and other facilities.”
Alarming Water Depletion In Ureshino
Tucked in Kyushu’s mountains, Ureshino is famous for its mineral-rich hot springs and traditional ryokans.
Reports from Japan’s national broadcaster NHK reveal that onsen water levels fell to a record low of 39.6 meters (130 feet) last year, marking a 20% decline from the 50-meter (160 feet) level recorded four years ago.
Mayor Daisuke Murakami acknowledged the severity of the onsen crisis but assured the public that the water source remains viable.
“We recognize that Ureshino City relies on tourism, so we must make every effort to protect it. In doing so, we will not hesitate to take any necessary measures,” he stated.
To reduce strain on water supplies, hotels and ryokans have been urged to limit private in-room onsen use during late-night hours.
Private Onsens Worsen Onsen Crisis
The growing demand for private onsens among international visitors is adding pressure to water resources. Communal baths, where guests traditionally bathe nude, cost as little as $3 per entry.
However, many foreign travelers prefer private baths in hotel rooms, sometimes paying hundreds of dollars for exclusive access. This increased demand forces more water to be pumped, worsening the onsen crisis.
“The increase in tourists after Covid-19 has led to an expansion of hotels, larger facilities, and more private onsen baths in individual rooms,” said Akihiro Otsuka of the Chuo Onsen Research Institute.
Onsens Nationwide Affected By Onsen Crisis
Other onsen towns are also struggling. In Niseko, Hokkaido, reports indicate water levels have dropped by 15 meters (49 feet) in the past three years. Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture now limits day-trippers during peak seasons to prevent overcrowding.
Tourism is not the only cause of the onsen crisis. Otsuka pointed out that aging infrastructure and corroded pipes are also contributing to unnecessary water loss.
“Many onsen areas are struggling with aging facilities that have not been properly maintained,” he explained.
Preserving Japan’s Onsen Culture
Strict regulations govern the use of natural hot springs in Japan. The Onsen Law requires water to emerge from underground at a minimum temperature of 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) and contain specific minerals to qualify as an onsen.
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Officials are now exploring solutions to balance tourism growth with conservation efforts.
Sustainable water management is crucial as onsen-dependent communities seek long-term strategies to preserve one of Japan’s most treasured natural resources.
