A hot spring that glows blue. The cobalt blue hue is reminiscent of tropical seas. Blue hot springs are extremely rare in Japan, captivating many with their rarity and beauty.
What Are Blue Hot Springs?
Blue hot springs refer to those that appear blue due to the interaction of hot spring minerals and light.
There are various shades of blue, such as cobalt blue, turquoise, and pale blue. The appearance of the color changes depending on the water's clarity, depth, and the angle of sunlight.
Why Do They Turn Blue?
The reason behind the creation of blue hot springs is complex.
Light Scattering: Microparticles in the water scatter light, allowing only blue light to reach the eyes. This is the same principle that makes the sky appear blue.
Hot Spring Components: Specific minerals in the hot spring (such as sulfur and sulfates) emphasize the blue color.
Water Clarity: Extremely clear water appears blue at greater depths.
When these factors combine, a beautiful blue hot spring emerges.
Types of Blue Hot Springs
Blue hot springs are primarily found in sulfur springs and sulfate springs.
Sulfur Springs: Sulfur microparticles scatter light, sometimes making the water appear blue.
Sulfate Springs: Sulfate components can emphasize the blue color.
Effect of pH: The appearance of the color can also change depending on the pH level.
Notable Blue Hot Springs
Tamagawa Onsen (Akita Prefecture): Known for being Japan's most acidic hot spring, it occasionally exhibits a bluish hue.
Hakuba Happo Onsen (Nagano Prefecture): A highly alkaline hot spring characterized by its bluish tint.
Aoike Pond (Shirakami Sanchi, Aomori Prefecture): While not a hot spring, this pond is famous for its blue glow and contains hot spring minerals.
Due to their rarity, encountering a blue hot spring offers a precious experience.
The Charm of Blue Hot Springs
The greatest allure of blue hot springs is their overwhelming beauty.
The cobalt blue water sparkles like a gem. The natural colors created by nature captivate those who behold them.
Additionally, there is a visual soothing effect. Blue is considered a calming color. Immersing in a blue hot spring provides relaxation both visually and mentally.
Blue Hot Springs and Light
Blue hot springs are greatly influenced by light.
On sunny days, they shine a vibrant cobalt blue. On cloudy days, they appear a pale blue. In the evening, they take on an orange-tinged blue.
In other words, they present completely different appearances depending on the time of day and weather. This is another charm of blue hot springs.
Precautions When Bathing
Blue hot springs often have unique components.
Potentially Strong Acidity or Alkalinity: They may be harsh on the skin. Those with sensitive skin should take care.
Keep Bathing Time Short: 10 to 15 minutes is appropriate.
Rinse with Fresh Water After Bathing: Rinse with fresh water to prevent strong components from remaining on the skin.
Blue Hot Springs and Photography
Blue hot springs are among the most photogenic.
Searching for "blue hot springs" on social media yields numerous beautiful photos. The cobalt blue hues appear stunning in any photograph.
However, the actual color may differ from the photos. The appearance can change significantly due to the angle of light and weather.
The Rarity of Blue Hot Springs
Blue hot springs are extremely rare in Japan.
Without the right combination of specific hot spring components, clear water, and light conditions, the water does not appear blue. Therefore, finding a blue hot spring is like a treasure hunt.
If you find a blue hot spring, consider yourself very fortunate. Be sure to savor its beauty.
Conclusion
Blue hot springs are a rare phenomenon in Japan. Their cobalt blue hues are overwhelmingly beautiful.
They turn blue due to complex factors such as light scattering, hot spring components, and water clarity. The natural colors created by nature captivate those who see them.
Their rarity and beauty create a special allure. If you find a blue hot spring, be sure to experience it. You will gain deep relaxation both visually and mentally.
