Enjoy an onsen without leaving home

Some months ago, I was chatting with an acquaintance about the much beloved Japanese hot springs. The conversation was going as usual until he said, "By the way, did you know that you can turn your bathtub into an onsen?". What? I didn't know, my curiosity was sparked, and I had to find out what kind of magic that was. Now, let me introduce you to nyûyokuzai (入浴剤), the Japanese bathwater additive.

On that same evening, I went to the local supermarket looking for the magical powder. Turns out there was a whole section of them, I just didn't notice it before. Water is scarce in the country I used to live in, there is no bath culture and many houses don't even have a bathtub, just a shower. Although I had seen pictures of bath bombs on Instagram, it was my first experience with this kind of product. I found there was a great variety of scents: floral, relaxing, herbal...

... and the ones inspired by famous onsen! Bingo! As you can see in the price tags, they aren't expensive, and you can get 12 sachets for less than 400 yen, or 18 for less than 500. But can you really have a soak in Kurokawa Onsen without taking the plane to Kumamoto, or relax in Kusatsu Onsen without moving from home?

The answer is... not really. Great as it might be, nyûyokuzai doesn't turn the water in your bathtub into hot spring water. It is a fun experience nonetheless. Since I discovered it, I've tried different types and liked all of them.

This is the most recent one: a forest themed nyûyokuzai, because I felt like forgetting about modern day problems and escaping to a green and quiet place. Looking at the pictures and reading the description on the package, I try to imagine just that.

It says that it helps with fatigue, tight shoulders, back pain and bad circulation. Some brands claim to be effective against other conditions and, even though I can't guarantee that, a warm bath is usually good for health. It is especially nice during the cold months.

The bathwater additive can come in the shape of a tablet or as powder. It is very easy to use: just fill your bathtub with hot water, add the product, wait until it dissolves and enjoy! It isn't steaky or soapy, so it doesn't take a long time to clean the bath afterwards.

Going back to the topic of the onsen, what does the nyûyokuzai do if it doesn't turn tap water into hot spring water? It colours it, and some varieties make it opaque, too. And it also adds a nice, relaxing fragrance. It isn't a miracle product, but it is affordable and does turn bathing into a more exciting experience. I will definitely keep on using it and recommend trying it at least once. And, if you already knew about these bathing powders, which are your favourites?