Stressed-up Singaporeans, here’s your chance to take a mini-escape and experience traditional Japanese Onsen Spas hospitality right here in Singapore!
No, we’re not talking about the next Ramen or Sushi restaurant. Instead, we’re introducing you to the world of Onsens!
What’s an Onsen?
An Onsen is a Japanese hot spring, equipped with other services and amenities such as bath areas, massage and food. Despite not having direct access to natural sources like its Japanese counterpart, the waters found in Singapore Onsens are carefully treated with quality minerals. These minerals can support your rejuvenation and detoxification needs.
Step aside, cafes and pubs! Welcome to a healthy and tranquilising way of chilling with your friends, albeit seeing each other’s rear ends!
Health Benefits of Onsens
Onsens have been flourishing for thousands of years, thanks to its therapeutic benefits. While it’s probably no replacement for medically recognised treatments, Onsens can help alleviate some health symptoms.
Stress Relief and Better Sleep Quality
The water’s warmth can reduce the build-up of stress hormones, such as cortisol. The mineral in the water can also help to release your tense muscles.
Some Onsens have carefully selected wood for constructing their tubs to achieve a more calming effect. Ikeda Spa uses Hinoki, a type of wood that’s part of the Cypress tree family, for stress relieve purposes. When exposed to hot water, the Hinoki wood produces Hinoki wood oil, which alleviates anxiety and emotional stress.
Being in the waters of an Onsen can also help improve your sleep quality. When your body rapidly cools down after soaking in thermal water, it produces melatonin, a hormone that aids sleep.
Improves Blood Circulation
When you soak your body in the Onsens, the minerals in its waters will cause your hydrostatic pressure to rise, improving blood flow and circulation. With improved blood circulation, your metabolism also increases. Hence, you’ll have a healthy and robust body.
Improves Skin
Certain minerals used in Onsens, such as sulphur, can boost the healing of eczema and psoriasis.
The sodium chloride-induced moisturising effects can also lead to the production of youthful-looking skin.
Pain Relief
An Israeli study published in the journal Rheumatology International has discovered that hot mineral baths may aid in pain and fatigue relief, thanks to its heat. The heat can reduce our perception of pain by blocking the pain receptors in our bodies.
Additionally, the buoyancy of the waters can help also help to improve our joints naturally.
The minerals found in Onsens, such as magnesium can aid the relief of arthritis if bathed thoroughly.
Onsen Etiquette
Hold up! You’re probably eager to scout through the list below for your ideal Onsen. However, before you can even enjoy the benefits of an Onsen, you have to understand its etiquette. Failing to abide by their code of conduct could potentially lead to a denial of service from the staff! To save yourself from appearing like Homer Simpson, here are some tips you have to bear in mind before an Onsen trip.
These etiquette tips apply to Onsens in Singapore. If you’re heading to Onsens in Japan, take note that several Onsens will reject you if you have any tattoos. If you do have them, no worries, check out this link for a list of tattoo-friendly Onsens in Japan.
Clean Yourself Before Entering the Onsen
The Onsen isn’t a place for you to bathe yourself. You soak your body in the Onsen to relax and meditate.
Remember, you’re sharing the Onsen with other people, and maintaining good hygiene practice is paramount.
Fortunately, Onsens are equipped with bathing areas and scrubs. Make sure you clean yourself thoroughly before entering.
The 3 Big Nos – No Clothes, No Hair and No Towels in the Onsen Waters
Riding along with its strict sanitary practices, the Onsen should be kept clean and pure at all times.
Firstly, you are only allowed to enter into the Onsen completely naked. Onsens would generally reject customers who refuse to be nude. Your swimsuit or towel may consist of invisible particles that may affect the purity of the Onsen waters. Additionally, the thermal heat will cause discolouration to your swimsuit.
With that being said, some Onsens do provide disposable undergarments for you.
Similarly, for hygiene reasons, the hair should not touch the water. Tie your hair up if they’re hair. Even if you don’t have long hair, avoid dipping your head in the waters at all times. The Onsen is meant for your body, not your hair.
The same restriction extends to towels. If there’s nowhere you could place your towels, rinse it with cold water before resting it on your head. Putting a cold towel over your head will help to reduce any potential dizziness from the heat while it remains in your body.
Speak Softly if You Have to
Onsens are not an opportunity for you to create your frat-boy or bachelorette gathering. The Japanese believe that an Onsen is a holy place for you to cleanse and purify your body. The best activities to do in an Onsen is to meditate and self-reflect. Hence, when you leave the Onsen, you’ll feel recharged, both physical and mentally.
Onsen Spa |
Ikeda Spa |
| Speciality |
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| Pricing | Click here to view |
| Website | https://www.ikedaspa.com/ |
| Address | 787 Bukit Timah Rd, Singapore 269762 |
| Telephone | (65) 6469 8080 |
| Operating Hours | Mon-Sun: 1.30pm – 10.30pm daily |
| Clients |
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| Review 1 | “Today I’ve purchased an autumn promotion package comprising a thirty-minute onsen bath and a 90-minute massage. I’d say the overall experience was fabulous. Especially the massage, worked on my body by the super skilled Vietnamese therapist Kim, was really impeccably good. She was thoroughly knowledgeable about human body and did an amazing job to untie the knots all over my body. I feel so relaxed and refreshed after the massage. Will definitely return here.” |
| Review 2 | “What I really liked about this spa are their attention to your needs and the cleanliness of their spa. Definitely a thumb up for anyone who wishes to enjoy onsen followed by a nice massage.” |
| Review 3 | “Bought the birthday surprise as a gift for my best friend. The staff at Ikeda were absolutely amazing and made us both feel super pampered! We really enjoyed having the VIP suite (Clarke Quay) to ourselves and highly recommend it to anyone who just wants a bit more privacy, it made the occasion very special! The onsen was as authentic as the ones I’ve been to in Japan. The massage was really relaxing and the staff were very friendly and accommodating right from the beginning! Felt very at ease! They also gave my friend a card which i thought was a lovely touch!” |
Onsen Spa |
Yunomori Onsen |
| Speciality |
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| Pricing | Click here to view |
| Website | https://www.yunomorionsen.com |
| Address | 1 Stadium Place, Kallang Wave Mall #02-17/18, Singapore 397628 |
| Telephone | (65) 6386 4126 |
| Operating Hours | 10am–2am daily |
| As Seen On |
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| Review 1 | “Glad that there’s a decent Onsen here in SG. Well done to team Yunomori! Will visit again real soon!” |
| Review 2 | “A bit out of central but a good spot to experience a Japanese onsen. Multiple hot baths, stream, and sauna rooms with one cold bath or cold shower. Gender divided with a co-ed resting/nap room after your ginger tea. Change rooms and onsen seems pretty clean with mutual respect between customers on general etiquette. Cycling throw hot and cold baths definitely does wonders for the mind and body . Highly recommend and this is open for families – enjoy” |
| Review 3 | “Great place to relax in therapeutic hot baths, as well as a delicious Japanese meal at their in-house restaurant.” |
Onsen Spa |
Elements |
| Speciality |
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| Pricing | Click here to view |
| Website | https://elements.com.sg/ |
| Address |
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| Telephone | (65) 6737 8488 |
| Operating Hours | Mon-Fri: 11am – 9pm
Weekends & PH: 10.30am – 8pm |
| Review 1 | “Tried their promotion package and we simply enjoyed the whole session from the massage to the onsen experience.. They will request us to indicate the strength of the pressure before we enter the room, masseuse will also confirm with us again the amount of pressure before they start the massage… The whole ambience in the room is perfect and the onsen room is beautiful.. We have been to onsen in Japan, even though the onsen they have is not as good as in Japan but we still enjoyed it:) counter staff were friendly and will not hard sell anything to us.. Highly recommended..
Keep up the good job!! :)” |
| Review 2 | “Very pretty, clean and spacious onsen. Staff dont upsell or bother you much.” |
| Review 3 | “Pleasant place for massage and onsen. Lovely and friendly staff, place is cozy and nice” |
Onsen Spa |
Le Meridien Singapore |
| Speciality | Onsen Spa Suite |
| Pricing | Call to enquire |
| Website | https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sinmd-le-meridien-singapore-sentosa/ |
| Address | 23 Beach View, Singapore 098679 |
| Telephone | (65) 6818 3388 |
| Operating Hours | Call to enquire |
| Review 1 | “Went for a short day trip with my girl’s family. Was an eye-opening experience to see the Onsen suite of Le Meridien in Sentosa. Swimming facility was nice. The service staff were very courteous and completed the experience.” |
| Review 2 | “Hotel was a blend of colonial heritage with modern amenities and sensibilities. The staff provided excellent service. Breakfast was delicious and the menu rotated for the 2 days we were there.. plenty of variety! We stayed at the Onsen room; quite a novelty to have a hot bath in zen japanese inspired finishings, while listening to the gentle rain outside. Definitely a highlight of our stay! Would stay again!” |
Onsen Spa |
ESPA |
| Speciality |
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| Pricing | Click here to enquire |
| Website | https://www.rwsentosa.com/en/espa/facilities |
| Address | 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269 |
| Telephone | (65) 6577 8880 |
| Operating Hours | Wed-Sun: 9am – 10pm |
| Accolades |
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| Review 1 | “Wonderful japanese inspired onsen with 40°c temp and interactive vitality pool where it will activate when you press the green button” |
| Review 2 | “A bit pricey but well worth the price tag. Able to go in earlier well ahead of your stipulated massage timing to use the facilities that they offer. Sauna, crystal pool, gym, jacuzzi, onsen and relaxation room. Therapists are well trained and knowledgeable. They will seek for your preference in scents, massage strength and your area of concerns before they start on your session.” |
Onsen Spa |
Spa Retreat @ One Farrer Hotel |
| Speciality | Onsen Retreat |
| Pricing | Call to enquire |
| Website | https://www.onefarrer.com/en/spa/spa-retreat.html |
| Address | 1 Farrer Park Station Rd, Singapore 217562 |
| Telephone | (65) 6363 0101 |
| Opening Hours | Call to enquire |
| Accolades | Singapore’s Best Hotel Spa 2017 in World Spa Awards 2017 |
| Review 1 | “Love this hotel. Great service and quiet ambience. And the spa menu is comprehensive with fantastic therapists!” |
What to Bring to Onsen Spa?
Going to an onsen spa can be a very relaxing and enjoyable experience, but if it’s your first time visiting one, you may be wondering what to bring. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this post, I’ll give you a list of items you should consider bringing with you to make the most of your onsen spa experience.
Before we get started, let’s talk a bit about what an onsen spa is. Onsen is the Japanese word for hot spring, and onsen spas are popular in Japan and other countries with natural hot springs. Onsen spas typically have indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, saunas, and other amenities like massage and beauty treatments. They’re a great way to relax and unwind after a long day or week, and they’re often located in scenic areas with beautiful views.
Now, let’s get into what you should bring with you to the onsen spa:
- Towel(s)
One of the most important things to bring with you to the onsen spa is a towel or two. Many onsen spas provide towels for guests, but they may charge you for them or have a limited supply. It’s a good idea to bring your own towels just in case. You’ll need one towel to dry off with after your bath, and another to use as a modesty towel while you’re walking around the spa. Some onsen spas have rules about how you can use your towels, so make sure to check those before you go.
- Swimsuit (optional)
In Japan, it’s common to bathe naked in the hot springs, but some onsen spas allow guests to wear swimsuits. If you’re not comfortable being naked around strangers, you may want to bring a swimsuit to wear in the baths. Make sure to check the onsen spa’s rules before you go to see if swimsuits are allowed.
- Shampoo and soap
Most onsen spas provide shampoo and soap for guests, but you may prefer to bring your own. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it’s a good idea to bring your own shampoo and soap to avoid any reactions. Plus, bringing your own products will ensure that you’re using something that you’re familiar with and that works well for your hair and skin.
- Water bottle
It’s important to stay hydrated while you’re in the hot springs, so make sure to bring a water bottle with you. You can refill it at the water stations in the spa. Drinking water while you’re in the hot springs can help prevent dehydration, which can cause dizziness, headaches, and other unpleasant symptoms.
- Snacks
Some onsen spas have restaurants or vending machines where you can buy food and drinks, but it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks just in case. You may get hungry while you’re soaking in the hot springs, and having a small snack like a granola bar or a piece of fruit can help keep your energy levels up.
- Robe or cover-up
After you’re done soaking in the hot springs, you’ll need to get dressed again. It’s a good idea to bring a robe or cover-up to wear while you’re walking around the spa. Some onsen spas provide robes for guests, but others may charge you for them or have a limited supply. Bringing your own robe or cover-up will ensure that you’re comfortable and warm while you’re exploring the spa.
- Hairbrush or comb
After you’re done soaking in the hot springs and washing your hair, you’ll need to comb or brush it out. It’s a good idea to bring a hairbrush or comb with you to the on sen spa so that you can style your hair after your bath. This is especially important if you have long hair that can get tangled easily.
- Face towel
In addition to a regular bath towel, you may want to bring a small face towel with you to the onsen spa. You can use this towel to wipe your face and keep it dry while you’re soaking in the hot springs. It’s a good idea to bring a separate towel for your face to avoid using the same towel that you use to dry off the rest of your body.
- Flip-flops
Most onsen spas require guests to take off their shoes before entering the spa area. It’s a good idea to bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals to wear while you’re walking around the spa. This will help protect your feet from the hot ground and keep them clean.
- Waterproof camera
Finally, if you want to capture your onsen spa experience, you may want to bring a waterproof camera with you. Some onsen spas have beautiful views or unique features like outdoor baths or waterfalls, and a waterproof camera can help you document your visit. Just make sure to be respectful of other guests’ privacy and follow the onsen spa’s rules about taking photos.
What is the Difference Between Onsen and Hot Springs?
If you’re new to the world of hot springs and onsen, you may be wondering what the difference is between the two. Both hot springs and onsen are natural sources of hot water that people have been using for centuries for their therapeutic and relaxation benefits. But there are some key differences between the two that are important to understand. In this post, I’ll explain what onsen and hot springs are, their differences, and their unique characteristics.
What is an Onsen?
Onsen is a Japanese term that refers to hot springs, particularly those that are used for bathing. Japan is famous for its onsen culture, which dates back to the eighth century. Japanese onsen are known for their high mineral content, which is said to have healing properties for a variety of ailments, from sore muscles to skin conditions.
Onsen are typically located in natural outdoor settings, such as mountains, forests, or near the coast. They are often surrounded by beautiful scenery and are considered to be places of relaxation and rejuvenation. Onsen are usually gender-segregated and require guests to be naked while bathing, although some onsen allow guests to wear swimsuits.
What are Hot Springs?
Hot springs are similar to onsen in that they are natural sources of hot water, but the term hot springs is used more broadly to refer to any natural hot water source, regardless of whether it is used for bathing. Hot springs can be found all over the world, from Iceland to the United States to New Zealand.
Like onsen, hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties. The hot water in hot springs contains a variety of minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, that are said to have healing benefits for the body. Hot springs can be used for soaking, swimming, or even drinking the water, depending on the location and regulations.
What are the differences between Onsen and Hot Springs?
So, what are the main differences between onsen and hot springs? Here are a few:
- Origin
The main difference between onsen and hot springs is their origin. Onsen are a specifically Japanese phenomenon, while hot springs can be found all over the world. Onsen are an important part of Japanese culture and have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits.
- Temperature
Onsen are typically hotter than hot springs. In Japan, onsen water is required to be at least 25 degrees Celsius, while the temperature of hot springs can vary depending on the location. In some cases, hot springs can be too hot for bathing and may need to be cooled down before they can be used.
- Mineral content
Onsen and hot springs can contain different minerals, depending on their location. Japanese onsen are known for their high mineral content, which is said to have healing properties for a variety of ailments. Hot springs in other parts of the world may contain different minerals or have different mineral concentrations.
- Use
Onsen are primarily used for bathing, while hot springs can be used for a variety of purposes, including soaking, swimming, and drinking the water. Some hot springs are also used for geothermal energy production or other industrial purposes.
- Clothing
In Japan, onsen are typically gender-segregated and require guests to be naked while bathing. Some onsen allow guests to wear swimsuits, but this is not the norm. Hot springs in other parts of the world may have different clothing requirements, depending on the location and culture.
Should I Shave Before Onsen?
Going to an onsen can be a very relaxing and enjoyable experience, but if it’s your first time, you may be wondering if there are any grooming considerations to keep in mind. One question that often comes up is whether or not you should shave before going to an onsen. In this post, I’ll discuss the pros and cons of shaving before onsen and offer some tips to help you decide what’s best for you.
Pros of Shaving Before Onsen
- Hygiene: Shaving before going to an onsen can help keep the water clean. When you shave, you remove dead skin cells and any bacteria that may be on your skin. By doing so, you reduce the risk of introducing bacteria into the hot springs and contaminating the water.
- Aesthetics: Many people feel more comfortable and confident when they are freshly shaved. Going to an onsen is a social experience, and you may feel more at ease if you feel that you look your best.
- Comfort: Shaving can help reduce friction between your skin and the bathwater. This can make your onsen experience more comfortable, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time in the water.
Cons of Shaving Before Onsen
- Skin Irritation: Shaving can cause skin irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin or if you’re not used to shaving regularly. If you shave right before going to an onsen, you may experience redness, itching, or even ingrown hairs.
- Bacteria: While shaving can help remove bacteria from your skin, it can also create small nicks and cuts that can make it easier for bacteria to enter your body. This can increase your risk of infection, especially if you have open wounds or skin conditions.
- Hair Growth: If you shave regularly, you may notice that your hair grows back faster and thicker than before. This can be a problem if you want to maintain a smooth appearance and have to shave more frequently.
Tips for Shaving Before Onsen
If you do decide to shave before going to an onsen, here are some tips to help you do it safely and effectively:
- Use a clean razor: Before shaving, make sure that your razor is clean and free of bacteria. You can use rubbing alcohol or boiling water to disinfect your razor before use.
- Exfoliate first: To reduce the risk of skin irritation, exfoliate your skin before shaving. This will help remove dead skin cells and prepare your skin for shaving.
- Use shaving cream: Shaving cream can help lubricate your skin and reduce friction, making it easier to shave without causing skin irritation.
- Shave in the direction of hair growth: Shaving against the direction of hair growth can cause irritation and ingrown hairs. Make sure to shave in the direction of hair growth for the best results.
- Moisturize after shaving: After you’re done shaving, apply a moisturizer to your skin. This will help keep your skin hydrated and reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Why do Onsens not Allow Tattoos?
If you’re planning a trip to Japan and you have tattoos, you may be surprised to learn that many onsen spas do not allow guests with tattoos. While this may seem like an arbitrary rule, there are actually several reasons why onsen spas have this policy. In this post, I’ll discuss the history behind the no-tattoo policy, the cultural significance of tattoos in Japan, and what you can do if you have tattoos and want to visit an onsen spa.
History of the No-Tattoo Policy
The no-tattoo policy at onsen spas in Japan dates back to the Edo period, which lasted from 1603 to 1868. During this time, tattoos were associated with criminal organizations, such as the yakuza, who used tattoos as a way to identify themselves and show their loyalty to their gangs. Tattoos were also associated with the lower classes, and were often seen as a mark of shame or disgrace.
As a result, onsen spas began to prohibit guests with tattoos as a way to distance themselves from these negative associations. They also wanted to maintain a sense of cleanliness and purity in their hot springs, and tattoos were seen as a potential source of contamination.
Cultural Significance of Tattoos in Japan
While tattoos are becoming more popular and accepted in Japan, they still carry a certain stigma, especially among older generations. In Japanese culture, tattoos are still associated with criminal organizations and the lower classes, and are often seen as a sign of rebellion or non-conformity.
In recent years, however, attitudes towards tattoos in Japan have begun to shift. More young people are getting tattoos, and there are even tattoo conventions and tattoo artists who are gaining recognition for their work. Despite this, the no-tattoo policy at onsen spas remains in place, largely due to cultural traditions and the desire to maintain a certain image.
What You Can Do if You Have Tattoos
If you have tattoos and want to visit an onsen spa in Japan, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you have a positive experience:
- Research onsen spas beforehand: Before you visit an onsen spa, do some research to see if they have a no-tattoo policy. Some onsen spas are more lenient than others, and may allow guests with tattoos if they are small or easily covered up.
- Cover up your tattoos: If you have tattoos that cannot be easily covered up, you may want to consider using makeup or clothing to conceal them. This may involve wearing long sleeves or using waterproof makeup to cover your tattoos.
- Use a private bath: Some onsen spas have private baths that can be reserved for individual use. If you’re uncomfortable being around others while you’re bathing, you may want to consider using a private bath instead.
- Respect the rules: If an onsen spa has a no-tattoo policy, it’s important to respect their rules. While you may not agree with their policy, it’s important to remember that onsen spas are cultural institutions that have a certain image to maintain.
- Consider visiting a tattoo-friendly onsen: If you’re unable to find an onsen spa that allows tattoos, you may want to consider visiting a tattoo-friendly onsen. These onsen spas are becoming more common in Japan, and are designed specifically for guests with tattoos.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not you should shave before going to an onsen depends on your personal preferences and grooming habits.
Shaving can help keep the water clean, make you feel more comfortable and confident, and reduce friction between your skin and the bathwater. However, it can also cause skin irritation, increase your risk of infection, and lead to faster hair growth.
Editor’s Note:
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