Ibusuki Sand Bath Experience
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Port
Kagoshima, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$169
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Drive to Lake Ikeda — the largest lake on Kyushu. This caldera lake, resulting from a collapsed volcano, is eight miles in circumference and 700 feet deep. The lake perfectly frames Mt Kaimon — a 3,000-foot volcano that draws comparisons with Mt Fuji for its nearly perfect conical shape.
Arriving at your destination, Ibusuki Hot Springs, you'll participate in the fun and relaxing sand bath process. The area is known for its natural streams and sand baths heated by subterranean geothermal activity. Geysers and springs heat the sand to approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Don a kimono and lie back in a shallow pit as you are covered with warm sand up to your neck. The sand bath is touted as a tonic for improving circulation and general health. A shower and a Japanese hot bath follow your sand bath. This pleasant sensation is a wonderfully authentic experience.
After enjoying your sand bath, you'll return to the ship.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Bring local currency, as most vendors do not accept US dollars or credit cards. Changing facilities are available. Cotton kimonos and a small towel are provided for the sand bath; swimsuits are not allowed in the sand bath. This is typical of Japanese-style bathing and no exceptions are made. Guests with a history of high blood pressure and/or heart or skin conditions are not allowed to participate. Tattoos are not allowed. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, inclines, gravel, and many steps. Unfamiliar accents can be challenging; feel free to ask your guide to repeat or elaborate on information, and to speak more slowly so you can fully comprehend and converse.