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Bathhouse · Ibusuki, Kagoshima
Ibusuki Sand Bath
On Surigahama Beach, thermal water heats the sand, and visitors in yukata are covered with it at the water’s edge; the bathhouse also has a regular thermal bath.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Ibusuki Sand Bath in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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Discover
About Ibusuki Sand Bath
Ibusuki’s sand bath, the sunamushi, takes place on Surigahama Beach along the town’s shore. There, thermal water runs beneath the sand toward the sea, and the sand becomes hot enough to serve as a natural sauna. The tradition is old and has become the town’s symbol.
The municipal beach bath, known as Saraku, organizes the experience. You receive a yukata, change in the locker room and go down to the beach, where there is a covered area. You lie down on the sand and staff, using shovels, cover your body up to the neck, leaving your face shaded. The heat and weight of the sand make you sweat within minutes.
The recommended time is about 10 to 15 minutes. Afterwards, you shake off the sand, return to the building, rinse off and enter the regular thermal bath, separated by sex and used without clothing. Few people fail to feel light and warm afterward.
When the tide is high or the weather is bad, the bath moves to an indoor area, also with heated sand. Seaside hotels have their own sand baths for guests. On the other side of the bathhouse, the beach continues with views of the bay and the cone of Mount Kaimon to the south. The shoreline has a promenade with foot baths and small fish restaurants, and in the late afternoon the low light colors the dark, volcanic sand.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour, including changing clothes, the sand bath and the thermal bath.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, outside group-bus hours. Weekends and holidays usually have a line. The beach bath depends on the tide; check times before going.
How to get there
The bathhouse is on the shoreline, about a 20-minute walk from Ibusuki Station, or 5 minutes by taxi or bus.
Tip
Drink water before and after and do not exceed the indicated time. Remove jewelry and watches before the bath, and store your cellphone in the locker.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ibusuki Sand Bath
How long does the Ibusuki sand bath last?
About 10 to 15 minutes covered with sand. With changing and the thermal bath afterwards, allow one hour.
Do I need to bring anything for the sand bath?
The yukata and a small towel are usually lent with the ticket. Bring clothes to change into and, if you want, soap for the regular thermal bath.
Can children do the sand bath?
They usually can, accompanied, with a shorter sand time. Confirm minimum age and rules at the counter.
Is the sand bath done right on the beach?
Yes, in a covered area of Surigahama Beach. With high tide or bad weather it moves to an indoor area of the building.
Beyond the guide
