I couldn't believe how warm it was.

The sand baths have existed for as long as anyone can remember. Steam slowly rises through the earth, heating the sand and the water in the bay. Most people get buried for 10-20 minutes at a time and follow up with a good scrubbing in the onsen. Many onsens have different types of water with different mineral and ionic qualities. Some of the baths are brown or yellow, and some are salty, while others are clear and fresh and can be drunk right from the fountain. The onsen is a family and communal activity. People take their children or go with friends. It is a place where people let their stress go, relaxing in the variety of pools and saunas.