Will the hot spring culture of Japan be included in the 2028 Unesco Heritage List?

[WORLD] Japan's hot spring culture, deeply rooted in centuries of tradition, may soon receive global recognition. A group of governors is spearheading an ambitious campaign to have Japan's onsen culture added to UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list by 2028. This move could bring international attention to the importance of this ancient practice and potentially revitalize Japan's hot spring destinations.

A coalition representing 44 of Japan's 47 prefectures is working tirelessly to showcase the cultural significance of onsen. The group, established in November 2022, defines hot spring culture as a "lifestyle" integral to Japanese society. They argue that the mineral-rich waters found at approximately 3,000 locations across the country are a "gift of nature that has been healing the mind and body" for generations.

Tottori Governor Shinji Hirai, who leads the group, expressed his conviction about the cultural importance of onsen: "I am convinced that the hot spring culture is equivalent" to the traditional making of sake and shochu distilled spirits, which gained UNESCO recognition in December. This statement underscores the group's belief in the cultural parity between onsen and other recognized Japanese traditions.

The Cultural Significance of Onsen

Onsen culture in Japan is more than just a bathing ritual; it's a holistic experience that encompasses relaxation, socialization, and connection with nature. The practice of bathing in naturally heated water has been a part of Japanese life for centuries, with historical records suggesting that the Japanese have enjoyed hot springs for over 6,000 years.

The term "onsen" first appeared in ancient texts like the Fudoki, and since then, hot springs have been valued not only for their healing properties but also for their spiritual significance. To the Japanese, natural hot springs have long been seen as sacred places offering both physical and spiritual relief.

The Evolution of Onsen Culture

Over time, onsen culture has evolved from purely therapeutic visits to a significant part of Japan's tourism industry. The practice of "touji," which involved visiting hot springs to heal ailments, was traditional. As transportation improved in the Showa era, more people could visit hot springs not only for healing but for relaxation and wellness.

The postwar economic boom saw a rise in group tours, leading to the growth of large-scale inns and hot spring resorts. Today, Japan boasts about 3,000 onsen establishments, ranging from simple, traditional bathhouses to luxurious resorts.

The UNESCO Campaign Strategy

The group of governors is taking a methodical approach to their UNESCO campaign. By March, they plan to compile a comprehensive survey of the current situation surrounding hot spring areas across the nation. This survey will include an assessment of the need for protection as cultural heritage.

Once the survey is complete, the group intends to urge Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's government to promote their campaign. Their hope is that UNESCO recognition will contribute to the revitalization of onsen locations, potentially boosting tourism and preserving this important aspect of Japanese culture.

International Precedent and Momentum

The effort to list hot springs gained momentum after Finland's sauna culture was inscribed as an intangible heritage in 2020. The UNESCO committee described Finnish sauna culture as "an integral part of the lives of the majority of the Finnish population". This recognition has inspired Japanese officials to seek similar acknowledgment for their own bathing tradition.

Japan already has a strong presence on UNESCO's intangible heritage list, with traditional sake-brewing becoming the country's 23rd entry. The addition of onsen culture would further cement Japan's rich cultural heritage on the global stage.

The Unique Aspects of Japanese Hot Spring Culture

What sets Japanese onsen culture apart is its deep integration into daily life and its role in fostering community bonds. Unlike many other spa traditions around the world, Japanese onsen are often communal experiences where people of all ages and backgrounds come together.

The ritual of onsen bathing involves more than just soaking in hot water. It includes specific etiquette, such as washing thoroughly before entering the bath, and often incorporates elements of traditional architecture and landscaping. Many onsen are set in beautiful natural surroundings, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature while enjoying the therapeutic waters.

Potential Impact of UNESCO Recognition

If successful, the UNESCO recognition could have far-reaching effects on Japan's hot spring industry and cultural preservation efforts. It could lead to:

• Increased international tourism to onsen destinations
• Greater awareness and appreciation of Japanese bathing culture globally
• Enhanced preservation efforts for traditional onsen facilities
• Economic revitalization of hot spring towns and regions
• Promotion of sustainable practices in onsen management

Challenges and Considerations

While the campaign for UNESCO recognition is gaining traction, it's not without challenges. The group must demonstrate that onsen culture meets UNESCO's criteria for intangible cultural heritage, which includes proving its cultural significance, traditional nature, and need for safeguarding.

Additionally, with the growing popularity of onsen among international tourists, there's a delicate balance to maintain between preserving authentic experiences and accommodating foreign visitors who may be unfamiliar with onsen etiquette.

The Future of Onsen Culture

Regardless of the UNESCO bid's outcome, the campaign itself highlights the importance of preserving and promoting Japan's hot spring culture. As Japan continues to navigate the challenges of modernization and globalization, traditions like onsen bathing serve as anchors to cultural identity and wellbeing.

The governors' initiative also opens up discussions about how to sustainably manage these natural resources and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the benefits of onsen culture. It prompts consideration of how to balance tradition with innovation, potentially leading to new ways of experiencing and appreciating this centuries-old practice.

The bid to have Japan's onsen culture recognized by UNESCO is more than just a quest for international acclaim; it's a reflection of the deep-seated importance of hot springs in Japanese society. As the group of governors works towards their 2028 goal, their efforts are already shining a spotlight on this unique aspect of Japanese heritage.

Whether or not onsen culture ultimately makes it onto the UNESCO list, the campaign serves as a reminder of the value of preserving cultural practices that contribute to physical and mental wellbeing. It also presents an opportunity for Japan to share a beloved tradition with the world, inviting global visitors to experience the healing and communal benefits of its hot spring culture.

As Japan looks to the future, the preservation and promotion of onsen culture could play a crucial role in cultural diplomacy, tourism, and national identity. The potential UNESCO recognition would be a fitting acknowledgment of a practice that has been soothing and rejuvenating the Japanese people for millennia.