Japanese hot springs — or onsen, as they’re traditionally called — are one of the many tourist attractions of Japan, but they aren’t just for tourists. Many locals enjoy bathing in the onsen, and some believe that the springs have healing properties. A reported 80% of Japanese people bathe in an onsen at least once a year. And despite those numbers, onsen are quite hygienic.

If you haven’t been to an onsen yet, here are some of the reasons why you should try them.

1 - Relaxation

If you enjoy soaking in a hot bathtub, wait until you experience a natural hot spring. The warm water combined with the atmosphere of the onsen is sure to melt your worries away.

2 - Health

The local belief that onsen have healing properties do have a nugget of truth in them. The springs can help treat a variety of conditions, including skin diseases, chronic pains, arthritis, and more. The relief is caused both by the heat and the minerals present in the water.

3 - Experience

Visiting an onsen is one of the most quintessentially Japanese experiences you can get. If your goal is to experience Japanese culture and traditions, you have to make an onsen part of your travel itinerary.