Japanese Onsen

 History and Progression of the Onsen

       Onsen, or hot spring baths, are extremely popular throughout Japan. According to the definition given in the 1948 Hot Spring Law, there are over 2,300 hot springs throughout Japan. Onsens have been used and valued for multiple millennia. The Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Shikoku Prefecture, is more than 3000 years old. The discovery of the majority of Japan's remote hot springs has been connected to ancient hunters following their wounded prey. Hurt animals would instinctively flee to the springs, as the hot water gave relief from their pain. Hunters soon attributed the finding of the springs as a guide sent by the Gods so lead men to the heavenly waters. Buddhism's religious arrival in 552 AD led to even more popularization of the Onsen. Buddhist followers believe that their purpose is to achieve nirvana,  or enlightenment. In order to achieve nirvana, followers must cleanse themselves, both mentally and physically, therefore the cleanliness of the Onsens were appealing. As Onsens evovled, they became segregated, not by sex, or even race, but by class. Samuri, for example, would consider it to be extremely disrespectful and rude if a merchant were to join him in the bath. 

The Physical Impact of the Onsen

       As Onsen baths evolved, they became more popular, routine, and common. In 1709, an Tokyo doctor, Goto Konzan, found an interest in hot spring baths and why they were so popular. His observations showed patterns of improvements in medical disorders, leading to the first medical study of hot springs. Since 1939, over 50 national hot spring hospitals have been founded. Onsen are still used in modern day for the treatment of chronic diseases, like rheumatism and hypertension, and external injuries, like post-operative recovery and rehabilitation. Certain onsens have been found to aid the digestive system. There are 14 basic seperate types of onsen water. One of these, gypsum springs, are beneficial to the treatment of wounds due to their high calcium content. Samuri warriors often soaked in gypsum baths after battle to heal and relieve their wounds. 

Works Cited

Z, J. "Japan and Onsen – A Naked History." Japanzine RSS. Japanzine, 1 Jan. 2005. Web. 04 Jan. 2017.
Https://www.facebook.com/myokokogen. MYOKO KOGAKURO HOTEL, KOGAKURO RYOKAN, AKAKURA ONSEN. Digital image. Myoko-Nagano: Explore the Heart of Japan. Myoko-Nagano: Explore the Heart of Japan, n.d. Web. 04 Jan. 2017.