Preface

Having just returned from a global hot springs tour, I'm still unable to calm my emotions. To be honest, I used to think hot springs were just places for "taking a bath," until I personally experienced these amazing hot spring destinations and realized how superficial my understanding had been. These hot springs not only allow tired bodies to completely relax but also provide a sanctuary for restless souls.

Blue Miracle

Iceland's Blue Lagoon was definitely one of the most stunning places on this trip. From landing at the airport to arriving at the Blue Lagoon, the short 20-minute drive had me eager to explore. I remember the moment I first stood at the edge of the Blue Lagoon - the scene before me left me completely stunned: a dreamlike milky-blue hot spring extending into the distance, perfectly merging with the horizon. This unique blue color comes from a special combination of silica, minerals, and algae, creating intoxicating hues under the sunlight.

The hot spring area's design is extremely modern yet perfectly integrated with the surrounding volcanic rock landscape. Although Iceland's cold wind was biting as I walked toward the hot spring area in my swimsuit and robe, the thought of soon soaking in the warm spring water made this bit of cold add to the anticipation.

The water temperature maintains the most comfortable range between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius. The moment I entered the hot spring, every pore in my body seemed to rejoice. The spring water has a very special texture, slightly viscous, as if your whole body is wrapped in gentle silk. This is said to be due to the rich content of silica, minerals, and algae, which not only nourish the skin but also have excellent therapeutic effects.

Turkish Wonder

Speaking of Pamukkale Hot Springs, this is absolutely the most dreamlike hot spring landscape I've ever seen. Looking from afar, the entire hillside is covered with white limestone terraces, looking like cotton fields covered in snow, which is how it got its name. Each hot spring pool is like a naturally carved work of art, with the pool water changing colors with the light, from clear blue to dreamy white, breathtakingly beautiful.

Most special here is its location. The hot springs are built at the foot of the ancient Roman ruins of Hierapolis, adding a sense of historical depth to the entire experience. Imagine that over two thousand years ago, ancient Romans might have enjoyed the warmth of the hot springs in the same location. This sense of transcending time and space gave me a deeper appreciation of history.

Japanese Tranquility

Japanese hot spring culture can be said to be the most refined and complete in the world. In Japan, bathing in hot springs is not just a form of leisure but an art of living. Takaegawa Onsen left the deepest impression on me, perfectly interpreting what "Japanese elegance" means.

The hot spring inn is built in the mountains, adopting traditional Japanese architectural style, perfectly integrated with the surrounding natural environment. I stayed in a room with an outdoor hot spring, and looking out from the room's engawa (wooden corridor), there were continuous mountains and dense forests. Each season here has different scenery: spring has cherry blossoms, summer has fireflies dancing, autumn has mountains full of red leaves, and winter is covered in silver snow.

Southeast Asian Style

Banjar Hot Springs in Bali brought me a completely different hot spring experience. This hot spring is more like an outdoor art museum than a leisure spot. The entire hot spring area is surrounded by lush tropical plants, the air filled with the fragrance of flowers and plants, with terraced rice fields in the distance and colorful Hindu architecture nearby. These Southeast Asian cultural elements make the entire hot spring experience exceptionally rich.

American Surprises

Arkansas Hot Springs was definitely the biggest surprise of this trip. This hot spring destination in the Ouachita Mountains perfectly showcases the unique charm of American national parks. The hot spring area's buildings retain the style of the early 20th century, with those ancient bathhouses and fountains telling the long history of this place.

Costa Rica's volcanic hot springs gave me a completely different experience. The wild hot springs at the foot of Tenorio Volcano maintain their completely pristine state, surrounded by dense rainforest, occasionally hearing sloth calls. Soaking in the hot springs at night while looking up at the starry sky, feeling nature's masterful work, that sense of awe is indescribable.

Final Thoughts

This global hot springs tour gave me a whole new understanding of "mind-body unity." Each hot spring has its unique charm: the dreamlike Blue Lagoon in Iceland, the magnificent Pamukkale in Turkey, the refined Japanese hot springs, the exotic flavor of Bali, and the perfect combination of primitive and modern American hot springs.

If you also want to take a hot springs journey, I suggest planning according to the seasons. Visit Iceland's Blue Lagoon in winter to experience the contrast of ice and fire; go to Yufuin in Japan in spring to admire the perfect combination of cherry blossoms and hot springs; visit Banjar in Bali in summer to experience tropical charm; and in autumn, go to Pamukkale in Turkey to feel the fusion of history and nature.

Remember to choose a time that suits you, slow down, and savor the unique experience each hot spring brings. I believe you can also find your own peace and emotion in these world-class hot springs.