Water Point for Hot Spring Water @ Dai-ichi Takimotokan [Hokkaido's Noboribetsu]

Following an invigorating soak in the amazing onsen at Takimoto Inn sister's hotel, we were on our way back to the poorer sibling when i noticed a signage with two characters that i can recognise - 飲泉, which literally means drink the spring water.

Taking a closer look, there were just two taps with running water. 

Translated English words always help although i wasn't too sure on what i am supposed to do; should i drink from either tap or there's a ratio i should follow? 

Hot spring water appeared to extremely corrosive; judging from the way it had eaten away the basin and i am guessing i shouldn't drink it neat. 

In comparison, the basin for the "normal" water remained as smooth and likely as new as when it was first installed. 

Notices on the wall in a language that i don't understand - thankfully, there were Chinese characters that i can vaguely recognize. Coupled with the need for assumption, i roughly made out a ratio of either 100 ml of hot spring water with 200 ml of normal water or vice versa. 

I erred on the side of caution and opted for the one with lesser hot spring water. At that point, i didn't know that the Google translate app can help to do instant translation by simply taking a photo of the words! 

Dispenser for the paper cups. Do keep in mind that not everyone can drink the water. There were Chinese wordings indicating that those with kidney problems and high blood pressure shouldn't take the water. A second line also mentioned that the water would benefit sufferers of constipation, liver disease, digestive problems and diabetes.

I didn't suffer from any of the above and happily gulped down a cup of mixed water! p.s. remember to dispose your cup instead of leaving it on the counter like the inconsiderate person before us. 

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Location

Dai-Ichi Takimotokan,

Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan



Interested to check out my summarized 8 days, 7 nights itinerary to Hokkaido in summer (including a few days of self-drive)? Click here.