Hot springs that shine with a golden hue are often referred to as 'Golden Hot Springs.' These yellow hot springs get their color from components like iron and sulfur, ranging from yellow to yellow-brown. The color is as captivating as a gemstone.

What Are Yellow Hot Springs?

Yellow hot springs are those that have turned yellow to yellow-brown due to the presence of iron, sulfur, and other hot spring components.

They vary from light yellow to deep golden hues, and the appearance can change depending on the lighting.

Why Do They Turn Yellow?

There are three main reasons why yellow hot springs form:

Oxidation of Iron: When iron-rich hot springs are exposed to air, they oxidize and turn yellow to yellow-brown.

Chemical Reaction of Sulfur: Sulfur can react with other components to form yellow compounds.

Organic Matter like Humic Acid: When organic matter dissolves in the hot spring, it can turn yellow to brown.

These factors can combine to create the color.

Types of Yellow Hot Springs

Yellow hot springs can be found in various types of spring qualities.

Iron Springs: The oxidation of iron turns the water yellow to brown.

Sulfur Springs: Chemical reactions involving sulfur can result in a yellow color.

Chloride Springs: Components derived from seawater can give a yellow-brown hue.

Acidic Springs: Strong acidity can alter the hot spring components, resulting in a yellow color.

Notable Yellow Hot Springs

Arima Onsen's Kinsen (Hyogo Prefecture): As the name 'Kinsen' suggests, this hot spring is golden (reddish-brown) and rich in iron and salt.

Tsukahara Onsen (Oita Prefecture): Known as Japan's most acidic hot spring with a pH of 1.4, it has a yellowish tint.

Sukayu Onsen (Aomori Prefecture): A strongly acidic sulfur spring with a yellowish milky appearance.

The Origin of the Name 'Golden Hot Springs'

The name 'Golden Hot Springs' comes from their color.

Hot springs that shine with a golden hue are as beautiful as gemstones. Due to their beauty and rarity, the term 'golden' is used.

Additionally, 'golden' implies 'valuable,' and these springs are often considered highly effective.

Benefits of Yellow Hot Springs

The benefits of yellow hot springs vary depending on their type.

For Iron Springs: Rich in iron. Drinking the water is said to help improve anemia.

For Sulfur Springs: Known for antibacterial and skin-beautifying effects.

For Chloride Springs: High heat retention, making it hard to catch a chill.

For Acidic Springs: Strong antibacterial effects.

Yellow hot springs provide a visual sense of 'rich components.'

Precautions When Bathing

Yellow hot springs often have high concentrations of components.

Potential for Strong Irritation: They often contain strong components like iron, sulfur, and acidity. People with sensitive skin should be cautious.

Keep Bathing Time Short: 10 to 15 minutes is appropriate. Avoid long soaks.

Rinse with Fresh Water After Bathing: To prevent strong components from remaining on the skin, rinse with fresh water.

Towels May Stain: If the water contains iron, towels may turn yellow. Use facility towels or bring old ones.

Enjoying Yellow Hot Springs

Yellow hot springs are a visual delight.

Immerse yourself in the golden water. Enjoy the unique colors. Experience the feeling of 'authentic hot springs with rich components.'

Additionally, yellow hot springs are photogenic. The golden water captures beautifully in photos. It's a great way to remember your trip.

Yellow Hot Springs vs. Clear Hot Springs

Seeing yellow hot springs might make you think they have 'rich components.' Clear hot springs might seem 'less rich.'

However, this is a misconception. Many clear hot springs are rich in components. The color simply means the components are visible.

That said, the visual impact of yellow hot springs is stronger. The sense of 'authentic hot springs' is a charm of yellow hot springs.

Conclusion

Yellow hot springs shine with a golden hue due to components like iron and sulfur. They are often called 'Golden Hot Springs.'

They provide a visual sense of 'rich components.' Often containing various components like iron, sulfur, and salt, they offer potential benefits.

Hot springs that shine like gemstones are a beauty and rarity you should experience.