Rich in active gases or metals — a strong mineral character.
Buoyancy
Standard buoyancy
LowHigh
Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.
FerBicarbonatesManganèse
Pony Onsen is located in Hachinohe, Aomori prefecture. Its iron-rich water, at 41°C, feeds an indoor bath and an outdoor rotenburo; a sauna rounds out the facilities.
Insider tip — Pony Onsen is a homely neighbourhood bathhouse in the Pacific coastal city of Hachinohe, drawing iron-tinged groundwater that gives baths a warm amber hue. The facility is unpretentious and loved by fishermen and dock workers who appreciate the deep warming effect of the mineral-rich water after long shifts in cold sea air. Regulars gather in the tatami rest room to exchange the day's news over canned coffee from the vending machines. The spring's iron content is high enough to visibly stain the tub edges a rich ochre colour over time.