About 90% of Japanese people bathe daily. They go on hot spring trips on weekends and stop by saunas after work. Why do Japanese people love hot springs and saunas so much?

There are deep cultural and social reasons beyond mere cleanliness habits. Japan's history, geography, social structure, and values all combine to create a unique 'bathing culture nation' unparalleled in the world. As a Japanese person myself, I deeply love hot springs and saunas. Let me explain why.

Reason 1: Volcanic Japan - Abundant Hot Spring Resources

There are over 27,000 hot spring sources across Japan. This is among the highest numbers in the world. The Japanese archipelago is located in the 'Ring of Fire,' with about 110 active volcanoes. This geological feature creates abundant hot springs.

From Hokkaido to Okinawa, all 47 prefectures have hot springs. Authentic hot springs can be found just an hour's drive from urban areas. Hot springs are part of daily life.

The abundant hot spring resources have placed 'bathing' at the core of Japanese life and culture. Hot springs are not special but are integrated into everyday life.

Reason 2: Cleanliness Culture - The World's Highest Hygiene Awareness

About 90% of Japanese people bathe daily, which is a very high percentage globally. They not only shower but also soak in the bathtub.

Japan is known as one of the cleanest countries in the world. The foundation of this cleanliness culture is the bathing habit. Influenced by Shinto, the concept of 'misogi,' or purifying oneself with water, is deeply rooted in the Japanese psyche.

Hot springs and saunas are recognized not just as places to wash the body but as sacred places to 'purify' the mind and body. I also feel my mind cleansed when I enter a hot spring.

Reason 3: 'Naked Fellowship' Culture - Social Equality

In hot springs and saunas, everyone is naked. Here, CEOs and regular employees are equal, the wealthy and the commoners are the same, and age doesn't matter. By being naked, social masks are removed, and genuine relationships can be formed.

There is a culture called 'onsen meetings,' where important business negotiations and meetings are held during hot spring trips. People open up in hot springs and build trust. When superiors and subordinates go to hot springs together, they create relationships that transcend workplace barriers.

I also have deep conversations with strangers in saunas. Being naked somehow brings hearts closer together.

Reason 4: Stressful Society and Places of Healing

Japanese people work long hours and live in a high-stress society, even by global standards. The high quality standards and perfectionism in Japanese society create mental pressure.

Hot springs and saunas are places of escape from daily life. They provide a break from work, smartphones, and social roles. In hot springs and saunas, you can't use smartphones. This enforced digital detox brings peace of mind.

The 'totonou' experience in saunas is the ultimate stress reliever for modern Japanese people. I also go to saunas when stressed. That 'totonou' feeling resets my mind.

Reason 5: Sauna Boom from the Late 2010s

The manga 'Sado' by Katsuki Tanaka (2015-) popularized sauna culture. The 2019 drama adaptation led to an explosive spread of saunas among younger generations. The expression of sauna bliss as 'totonou' made the experience shareable.

The stressed-out working generation in their 30s and 40s became central, and information sharing on social media progressed. The identity of 'sauners' was born. The number of women-only sauna facilities increased, and female sauna enthusiasts have surged.

Saunas are recognized not just as relaxation but as 'wellness' activities that enhance mental and physical health. I am also part of this sauna boom.

Reason 6: Places for Communication

Since the Edo period, public baths have been the center of local communities. They are places for information exchange, neighborhood interactions, and cross-generational exchanges.

Hot spring trips are a staple for family vacations and short trips with friends, providing opportunities to deepen bonds. Communities of sauna enthusiasts are also forming.

I also enjoy conversations with locals at public baths. I love the warm community atmosphere.

Reason 7: Purpose for Tourism and Travel

Hot spring trips are the most popular travel style for Japanese people. Enjoying the scenery of the four seasons, tasting local ingredients, and soaking in hot springs. This is the ideal holiday for Japanese people.

Hot spring areas are scattered throughout Japan. There are various options, from nearby hot springs to remote hidden ones. Each hot spring area offers different spring qualities, scenery, and culture to enjoy.

I also go on hot spring trips several times a year. The combination of hot springs and travel refreshes my mind and body.

Reason 8: Places to Feel the Four Seasons

Cherry blossom viewing baths in spring, cool highland hot springs in summer, open-air baths surrounded by autumn foliage, and snow-viewing baths in winter. Enjoying the changing seasons with hot springs.

Japanese people love the changes of the seasons. Hot springs are places where you can feel the seasons most beautifully. Even the same hot spring area offers completely different experiences as the seasons change.

I also enjoy seasonal hot springs. The combination of different scenery and hot springs each season provides new excitement every time.

Reason 9: Awareness of Health

The health benefits of hot springs and saunas are scientifically proven. They promote blood circulation, relieve fatigue, reduce stress, and boost immunity.

Japanese people have a high awareness of health. In Japan, a country of longevity, hot springs and saunas are important elements for maintaining health. Regular use of hot springs and saunas supports mental and physical health.

I also incorporate hot springs and saunas into my health routine. This habit helps maintain my mental and physical health.

Reason 10: Pride as a Culture

The culture of hot springs and saunas is a source of pride for Japan. With over 1000 years of history, abundant hot spring resources, diverse spring qualities, and unique bathing manners, all these form a culture that Japan is proud of worldwide.

Japanese people cherish this culture and feel responsible for passing it on to the next generation. Hot springs and saunas are not just bathing facilities but part of Japan's identity.

I also want to share this wonderful culture with the world. Hot springs and saunas are treasures of Japan.

Conclusion: Deeply Rooted Cultural Love

The reasons why Japanese people love hot springs and saunas are not simple. Abundant hot spring resources, cleanliness culture, social equality, stress relief, sauna boom, communication, tourism, the four seasons, health, and pride as a culture. All these intricately intertwine to create a unique bathing culture unparalleled in the world.

As a Japanese person, I also deeply love hot springs and saunas. This culture supports the mental and physical health of Japanese people and the bonds of society.

When you visit Japan, be sure to experience hot springs and saunas. Then you'll understand why Japanese people love them so much.