Finland's success in getting its sauna culture listed as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO has been a great inspiration for Japan. UNESCO's recognition of sauna culture as an integral part of Finnish life has set an important precedent, showing that unique cultural traditions, closely linked to the daily life of a nation, can be recognized and honored by the world. Therefore, the Japanese advocacy group is determined to bring onsen culture, a unique cultural symbol of the land of the rising sun, to a new level, alongside world cultural heritages.
Onsen, the Japanese tradition of bathing in natural hot springs that has been associated with the people for centuries, is on its way to becoming part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Tottori Governor Shinji Hirai, who heads the advocacy group, has asserted that onsen culture is worthy of UNESCO recognition, along with the art of making sake and shochu.
A group of governors representing 44 of Japan's 47 prefectures are working to make onsen culture a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage.
Like the art of making sake and shochu, onsen is the result of a harmonious combination between nature and human, demonstrating the sophistication and philosophy of Japanese life. This is a source of pride for the Japanese and a precious gift that Japan wants to promote to international friends.
Onsen, also known as "warm springs", are an indispensable part of Japanese culture. Since ancient times, Japanese people have known how to take advantage of natural hot springs for bathing, relaxation and healing. Soaking in hot baths amidst beautiful natural scenery is not only a daily habit but also a cultural ritual imbued with tradition. Onsen is not only a place to relax the body but also a place for people to interact, connect with each other, share stories and enjoy peaceful moments together.
Onsen bathing is a long-standing cultural beauty of the Japanese people.
With natural hot water containing many rare minerals, onsen is not only a pleasure but also an effective therapy. The Japanese have long believed that bathing in onsen can help relieve muscle pain, improve blood circulation, beautify the skin and improve health. Because of these wonderful benefits, onsen has become an indispensable part of Japanese life. The possession of up to 3,000 hot spring resorts has proven the importance of onsen to the health and life of the people.
Onsen is not only an activity that helps relax the body and mind but also reflects the Japanese lifestyle.
In the past, Japanese people would stay at onsen resorts for at least a week or even longer, bathing multiple times a day as a therapeutic method. Today, health trips to onsen are still common, but most people only spend a day or two soaking in the natural mineral waters.
