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1) Chloride Springs

Known as “Heat Springs,” these baths wrap your body in a veil of salt, locking in warmth for a long-lasting heating effect. Highly concentrated chloride springs are classified as “Strong Chloride Springs.”

2) Bicarbonate Springs

This type reacts on your skin like a natural soap, leaving it silky smooth. Often called “Beauty Springs,” these baths provide a refreshing feeling afterward, earning them the nickname “Cooling Springs.”

3) Sulfate Springs

Similar to chloride springs, these have excellent heat retention and also promote blood circulation and skin hydration. They are sometimes referred to as “Healing Springs” for aiding skin recovery.

4) Acidic Springs

With strong antibacterial properties, these springs are effective for bacterial skin conditions. Recently, they’ve gained the name “Peeling Springs.” Since they can be harsh on the skin, rinse your body before leaving the bath.

5) Sulfur Springs

Divided into sulfur-type and hydrogen sulfide-type, these springs are common in Japan. Hydrogen sulfide types improve blood flow without straining the heart and share several benefits with acidic springs due to their strong antibacterial power.

6) Iron-Rich Springs

These are visually fascinating as their color changes to reddish-brown over time due to iron oxidation. Apart from drinking benefits for iron deficiency, no other therapeutic uses are listed.

7) Iodine Springs

Reintroduced in 2014, iodine springs are mainly recognized for oral benefits. Since iodine is used in antiseptics and disinfectants, some antibacterial effect is expected.

8) Carbon Dioxide Springs

Often called “Bubble Springs,” these baths are full of fine carbonated bubbles that cling to your skin. The carbon dioxide widens capillaries and boosts blood flow, warming you from within.

9) Radioactive Springs

Containing radium or radon above standard levels, these springs are effective when you inhale the gas as you bathe. Though still under study, they are believed to help with gout and rheumatoid arthritis.

10) Simple Springs

These gentle, well-balanced waters contain mild amounts of various minerals, making them suitable for everyone. With a pH of 8.5 or higher, they are classified as “Alkaline Simple Springs.”

What About Springs Without a Classification?

Some baths don’t fit into these 10 categories. Japanese law distinguishes between “hot springs” and “therapeutic springs,” so a bath may legally be a hot spring without being classified for medical use. Even if no health benefits are listed, warming effects still apply, and mineral content is often close to qualifying for a named type.

Hot Springs Offer More Than Just Minerals

The benefits of a hot spring aren’t only from its components. The environment, water color, scent, texture, temperature, and even your mood all play a role. A positive mindset—“That was a great bath, I feel good!”—enhances the experience.

Blessed with an incredible variety of hot springs, Hokkaido is the perfect destination for onsen lovers. Use these insights to choose the right hot spring for your body and mind, and discover your favorite soothing retreat.