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Vietnam’s natural hot spring resorts attract global hotel giants; stays from $89 a night
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In February, Hilton took over an onsen resort in Quang Ninh province developed by Vietnamese real estate company Sun Group.
PHOTO: HILTON QUANG HANH ONSEN RESORT
- Vietnam is developing wellness tourism around its 400+ natural hot springs, similar to Japan's onsen culture, attracting global brands like Melia and Hilton.
- Wellness tourism is booming, projected to reach US$9.8 trillion by 2029, with Vietnam's market growing 150% between 2019-2024, driven by post-pandemic health focus.
- Challenges include high water use, resource intensity, and operational expertise in maintenance and water treatment, requiring sustainable practices for long-term viability.
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SINGAPORE – Somewhere between medicine and folklore lies the centuries-old ritual of soaking in mineral-rich hot springs. The naturally heated waters are believed to ease aching muscles, improve circulation and soothe skin conditions.
Nowhere is this tradition more deeply ingrained than in Japan, where hot spring bathing, also known as onsen culture, is a way of life. But a new contender is emerging closer to Singapore.
