Excursion World cruise collection: the ultimate onsen experience tour at Beppu
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
(Please acknowledge the 'Important Note' section reported down below)
Onsens (Natural Hot Springs) have an intrinsic part of Japanese culture since ancient times. The minerals contained in them provide different health benefits, and all hot springs are supposed to have a relaxing effect on your body and mind. Today, accompanied by an expert therapist, learn more about Onsens as well as indulge in an actual bath experience. You will also have an opportunity to sample various local delicacies such as 'Onsen Tamago' or 'Steamed Pudding' which are cooked using the steam and boiling water of the hot springs.
Beppu and the Hells
Depart the port for 'Umi Jigoku' one of the seven 'hells' of Beppu where you will be taken on a guided tour of the area. Also known as the "sea hell" it features a pond of boiling, blue water. There are a few smaller, orangecoloured hells and a clear water pond with lotus flowers whose large leaves are strong enough to carry small children.
Myoban Onsen and the Traditional Yunohana Medicinal Sinter
Continue to 'Myoban Onsen' to witness and learn about the traditional Yunohana Medicinal Sinter. The techniques for making these unique-looking traditional buildings have remained unchanged since the Edo Period over three hundred years ago. They have been designated as a 'Nationally Important Intangible Folk
Cultural Asset.' There are also various products made from the sinter, a natural crystalized material which grows in the hot springs. These are said to be beneficial for treating various skin ailments and maintaining overall good skin health.
Kannawa Village and Onsen Experience
It is then on to 'Kannawa Onsen' to experience an actual Onsen bath. You will be instructed on how to maximize the benefits to ensure total relaxation. Following your bath, cool off with a few local delicacies as you further unwind.
Important Note:
Japanese hot springs are enjoyed naked. Guests are required to be naked in the hot spring. Swimming suits are not allowed. It's permitted to bring a small towel into the bathing area, with which you can enhance your privacy while outside of the water. Once entered the bath, the towel must be kept out of the water. Shampoo, conditioner, body soap, face towel, and bath towel will be provided at the hot springs location. The hot springs are separated for female-only and male-only but are not privately reserved for Silversea Guests. We suggest guests not to bring valuables or wear accessories as the colour may be changed due to the hot springs water. The relaxing room after the hot springs experience is Japanese style i.e. sitting on Tatami Mats (on the floor). The use of the bath is forbidden after the consumption of alcoholic beverages. It's also forbidden for women who are pregnant or during their menstruation period. Tattoos are also prohibited. Photography and video cameras are not permitted inside the hot springs.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Beppu, The Hells, Myoban Onsen, Kannawa Village, Traditional Japanese Onsen Experience Important Note: Japanese hot springs are enjoyed naked. Guests are required to be naked to enter the hot spring. Swimming suits are not allowed. It's permitted to bring a small towel into the bathing area, with which you can enhance your privacy while outside of the water. Once entered the bath, the towel must be kept out of the water. Shampoo, conditioner, body soap, face towel, and bath towel will be provided at the hot springs location. The hot springs are separated for female-only and male-only but are not privately reserved for Silversea Guests. We suggest guests not to bring valuables or wear accessories as the colour may be changed due to the hot springs water. The relaxing room after the hot springs experience is Japanese style i.e. sitting on Tatami Mats (on the floor). The use of the bath is forbidden after the consumption of alcoholic beverages. It's also forbidden for women who are pregnant or during their menstruation period. Tattoos are also prohibited. Photography and video cameras are not permitted inside the hot springs.
Note
Please Note: This tour involves moderate amount of walking at times over unpaved and incline surfaces with a few steps to negotiate at the visited sites and to get on/off the coach. This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility concerns as onsen surfaces may be slippery. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise souveniers purchases. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.