Chloride springs are a type of hot spring commonly found along Japan's coastlines. They are known for their salty taste and remarkable heat retention, keeping you warm long after you leave the bath. As the nickname 'hot water' suggests, they are ideal for those who suffer from cold sensitivity.

What Are Chloride Springs?

Chloride springs refer to hot springs that contain a certain amount of salt (sodium ions and chloride ions). If the spring water contains more than 1,000 mg of chloride ions per kilogram, it is classified as a chloride spring.

These springs are abundant in coastal hot spring areas because seawater seeps underground and becomes hot spring water. In other words, chloride springs can be considered a 'gift from the sea.'

Appearance and Characteristics

Color: Clear to yellow-brown Smell: Almost odorless Texture: Smooth Taste: Salty when tasted

If you actually taste it, you'll find it truly salty. This is evidence of the salt content derived from seawater.

Why Are They Called 'Hot Water'?

When you bathe in chloride springs, a salt film forms on your skin. This film acts like insulation, helping to retain body heat. That's why you stay warm even after leaving the bath.

The nickname 'hot water' comes from this high heat retention. It's perfect for winter bathing, as you won't feel cold even after getting out of the bath, and you won't feel chilly while getting dressed.

The Mechanism of Heat Retention

When salt adheres to the skin's surface, it suppresses the evaporation of sweat. By reducing sweat evaporation, it prevents the cooling effect of evaporative heat loss, allowing body temperature to be maintained for a longer time.

Moreover, chloride springs have a vasodilating effect, improving blood circulation and warming the body from the core. This dual effect creates the excellent heat retention properties.

Main Benefits

Common indications for chloride springs:

• Cold sensitivity, peripheral circulation disorders
• Joint pain, muscle pain
• Cuts, burns (after bathing)
• Chronic skin diseases
• Chronic gynecological disorders
• Menstrual disorders

This type of spring is particularly recommended for those with cold sensitivity.

Notable Chloride Springs

Atami Onsen (Shizuoka Prefecture): A representative hot spring resort in Japan with high-concentration chloride springs.

Kaike Onsen (Tottori Prefecture): A coastal hot spring area overlooking the Sea of Japan.

Wakura Onsen (Ishikawa Prefecture): A luxurious hot spring area on the Noto Peninsula, famous as a sea hot spring.

Katayamazu Onsen (Ishikawa Prefecture): Part of the Kaga Onsen region, located by Lake Shibayama.

Recommended For

People with cold sensitivity, those who get cold easily after bathing, those who want to enjoy hot springs in winter, and those who prioritize heat retention. Chloride springs are perfect for those who want to warm their bodies from the core.

Post-Bath Considerations

Due to the high heat retention of chloride springs, opinions vary on whether to rinse off with a shower after bathing.

If you want to keep the salt on your skin, exit the bath without rinsing. This will further extend the heat retention effect. If you are concerned about sticky skin, rinse lightly with a shower. However, completely washing off the salt will reduce the heat retention effect.

For those with sensitive skin, the salt may be too stimulating. In such cases, it is recommended to rinse off with a shower after bathing.

Conclusion

Chloride springs are hot springs blessed by the sea. They taste salty and keep your body warm even after bathing. As the nickname 'hot water' suggests, they have excellent heat retention properties.

For those struggling with cold sensitivity, those who get cold easily after bathing, and those who want to enjoy hot springs in winter, chloride springs are ideal. When traveling along Japan's coastline, be sure to experience chloride springs. You will fully enjoy the benefits of sea hot springs.