One of the most unique experiences of my life was getting buried in the Kagoshima sand spas. And yes, thankfully my head was not included. It’s believed that the geothermal-heated sands provide mineral-rich, healing properties. Kagoshima prefecture is a geothermal hotspot with many islands and volcanoes, including the most active in Japan, Mt Sakurajima. I had an adventurous day leaving the cruise port, close to the smoldering Mt Sakurajima, on a scenic hour-long journey to Ibusuki, where I experienced the sand spa and hot springs.
Kagoshima is abundant with Mother Nature’s splendor to inspire all visitors, as the southernmost area of mainland Japan in a subtropical zone. Overall, its natural setting animates the essence of Feng Shui as an ideal balance of the elements, such as, volcanic fire, oceans sparkling waters, fertile soils for mandarin oranges, sweet potatoes, cherry blossoms, wood for magnolia and cedar trees, and metal in Satsuma-yaki pottery, a pioneer of Japonism (Japanese influence in the arts).
Mount Kaimon on Lake Ikeda & “Issie”
The scenic drive to Ibusuki introduced me to Kagoshima’s beautiful landscapes and culture, all narrated by an informative guide. We traveled along the island shores with colorful arrays of plant life, such as, yellow rapeseed fields, white magnolias, green tea plantations, orange orchards, red hibiscus, and cedar trees all under a bright blue sky. Overall, Japan has 111 volcanoes, including the most active on this island (Mt. Sakurajima), as part of the Pacific Ridge’s Ring of Fire.
We stopped at Lake Ikeda, a crater lake, 233 meters deep and home to rare creatures such as big eels. Plus, at a shop, I saw an eel almost 2 meters long lurking alone in an aquarium. Lake Ikeda is also home to an Unidentified Mysterious Animal named “Issie,” depicted with 2 humps that are a metaphor for the 2 underwater volcanoes in the lake. As a backdrop to this mysterious lake is the majestic Mt. Kaimon, at 977 meters high, referred to as the “Mt. Fuji of the area” with its stereotypical conical shape.
After Lake Ikeda, we passed a Shinto Shrine, where we made a wish according to this Japanese tradition. Shinto is the ancient shamanism of Japan, worshiping all living beings as sacred through animism. The God of this shrine is the nearby Mt. Kaimon. Thus, while passing by, we did the ritual: bow 2 times, then clap 2 times and make a wish.
Geothermal Sand Spas in Kagoshima
Our final destination was the Ibusuki Iwasaki Hotel. It attracts people worldwide for Geothermal Sand Spas in Kagoshima. Sand Spas are known for their therapeutic abilities to increase circulation, detoxify the body and give pain relief. First, we went to a locker room to undress and slip on a cotton kimono. Then we entered the sand spa underneath a tent. (There are also options in the open air next to the ocean). There were about 30-40 sand beds, shallowly dug out for us.
Then, I laid down in it on my back. Immediately, I relaxed into the warmth as my back molded to the warm black sand. This was the best part for me, with the warm penetration for the back and spine. As instructed, I brought my arms close to my side as the assistant covered me with sand. We were advised to not exceed 20-30 minutes in the sand, to avoid dehydration.
I fully absorbed every second of the experience for 20 minutes. Even though this appeared somewhat macabre, like a horror movie being buried alive, it also inspired my sense of humor. Altogether our group of 30 settled into a relaxed state with some bonding in conversation while others delved into solitary silence. Also, the assistants were glad to take our pictures with our cellphones for the ultimate selfie.
Finally, Hot Spring in a Kimono
After 20 minutes in the warm, geothermal sand, I lifted my hands out of the sand. The sand crumbled aside and then lifted my knees and legs, breaking free into the cool air. Reluctantly, I arose from this comfortable place in my damp, hanging kimono.
Then, I go outside to the warm hot springs close to the ocean shores with the rest of our group. In comparison, it was a nice complement, absorbing the therapeutic minerals of the geothermal hot springs, while cleaning off the leftover sand.
Lastly, I showered and changed into a fresh, dry kimono. My overall experience felt like a steady flow, until the end. I had no opportunity to sit and relax with a tea or juice for integration. This is the unfortunate reality of doing tours and feeling rushed. However, overall, I’m grateful for my day at the Sand Spas, because it was rejuvenating. Plus, it’s one of the few places in the world to offer this unique healing experience, harnessing the geothermal powers from the Ring of Fire.
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