Ibusuki Sand Baths
The world's only natural geothermal sand bath. Attendants bury you in volcanic black sand heated by underground hot springs to 50°C as the ocean laps a few metres away.
1–1.5 hours
¥1,500 adults (sand bath, includes rental yukata); ¥2,000 during peak periods (e.g. GW, Aug 10–15, year-end). As of Oct 2024
Saraku (sand bath facility): 8:30–21:00 (last entry 20:30) on weekends/holidays; weekdays 8:30–12:00 and 13:00–21:00. Open year-round; check for occasional maintenance closures (Jul, Dec).
Year-round
Limited express Ibusuki-no-Tamatebako from Kagoshima-Chuo (about 50 min) to Ibusuki Station, then about 20 min walk or about 5 min by bus to Saraku
Location
Why Visit
- 1
10–15 minutes buried is the standard — sweat pours out immediately
- 2
The facility provides cotton yukatas; wear nothing underneath for the full experience
- 3
Afterward soak in the adjacent indoor onsen baths to rinse off the black sand
Local Tips
The natural geothermally heated sand baths are unique to Ibusuki — attendants bury you up to the neck in warm black sand. The sensation is deeply relaxing and very different from water onsen. Sessions last about 10 minutes; shower and indoor bath facilities included. Come early on weekends as wait times can exceed an hour.
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