Thailand's hot spring ambition: Can it rival Japan's onsen?
Thailand is spending millions to turn its 118 hot springs into a wellness tourism magnet, starting with quieter provinces such as Ranong.
In Ranong, hot springs are part of daily life. "We talk about everything here, soaking for half an hour, an hour or two hours. It is a spot for exchanging thoughts in the community," said a resident.
The hot spring water in Ranong is rich in minerals and used in hydrotherapy at the city's hospital.
By 2027, the hospital plans to open a more modern wellness centre, with the aim of attracting medical and leisure tourists from Thailand and the region.
Thailand is leaning on expertise in Japan to help develop its hot spring industry, but Ranong stakeholders are adamant that Thailand needs to develop its own identity and not simply replicate an industry it wants to compete with.
A distinct difference between a hot spring in Thailand and an onsen in Japan is the ambient temperature.
Hot spring business owner Phatcharawadee Wongnamroj acknowledged that some people may not want to bathe in hot water when Thailand's climate is so warm.
"Actually, soaking in hot water sounds scary. But, in fact, at the end of the soaking process, you will feel refreshed," she said.
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