Hot springs are the natural way to relax. We discover the best in Asia

By Sarah Lucas

Forget algae wraps, body exfoliants and oxygen treatments; for those who want to rejuvenate, natural is the only way to go. And in Asia, that means one thing: hot springs. By balancing curative and preventitive philosophies, hot springs were the pioneers of the modern wellness industry and are as popular as ever despite the explosion in the spa industry in recent years. And, with thousands of hot spring resorts all over Asia, there is no excuse not to take to the waters and revive body and soul.

Japan

You’re spoilt for choice in Japan with over 14,000 hot springs or “onsen” to choose from. The Japanese regard them as part of their everyday life and take to the waters en masse.

Kusatsu

Two hours from Tokyo, Kusatsu is Japan’s most famous hot spring and is particularly popular in the winter when the area’s snow-covered peaks attract skiers and snowboarders. If you’re staying the night, head to the Naraya Inn. Designed in a traditional Japanese style, the rooms contain private hot springs as well as larger outdoor ones. As impressive is the traditional multi-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef.

+ 811 2 7988 2311

Taipei

First established as a pastime by the governing Japanese at the start of the 20th century, visiting hot springs resorts has become one of the most popular activities for people of all ages in Taiwan. The busiest resorts are all found within an hour of Taipei.

Beitou springs

The most popular of Taiwan’s hot springs, Beitou is less than an hour from Taipei. Go during winter when the milky waters soothe aching muscles and creaking joints. We recommend the Whispering Pine Inn, which is a favourite of stars such as Richard Gere and Zhang Zhiyi. Small and ultra-private, Whispering Pines is the last word in discrete luxury.

+886 2 2895 1531




Wufongci (Chiao Hsi)

Mountains, rivers and lakes make this one of the most picturesque areas in Taiwan. The fast-flowing rivers also ensure crystal-clear water and big crowds all year round. The Royal Chiao Hsi is the best spa resort in the area. Designed to maximise the light, each room has floor-to-ceiling windows. You might not have time to enjoy the view, however, with everything from karaoke to aromatherapy on offer.

Mainland China

Mainland water is high in mineral content which results in good quality springs all over the country. Although not as popular as in other Asian countries, the hot spring industry is about to take off, with plenty of both rural and urban rejuvenation spots.

Beijing

The capital has a variety of hot spring resorts, virtually all located in the suburbs. These are popular with locals but tourists often overlook them as a relaxing base from which to explore the city.

Stay: Hot Spring no. 8

Located in the centre of the city, this seven-storey hot spring resort is renowned as the most luxurious in Beijing with the owner having dug 2,500m into the rock to tap into a hot spring source. As opulent as it gets.

+86 10 6591 8888

Healing Powers

Here’s what the experts have to say regarding the healing properties of various minerals: Alum, alkali and radium – good for skin disorders Bicarbonate – helps prevent hypertension Carbonate – good for heart disease and blood circulation disorders Calcium – helps to heal open wounds Carbon – useful in treating digestive problems and chronic skin ailments Saltine Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate – effective in healing wounds and treating rheumatism Sodium – counters arthritic symptoms and stimulates the lymphatic system Sulphur – helps maintain a good digestive system and is effective in treating skin disorders