Your ultimate guide to wild hot spring camping10 essential tips for beginners: routes, gear, and everything you need to know

Mountain weather can change rapidly, with afternoon thunderstorms and typhoons potentially causing flash floods and creating dangerous conditions.

Wild hot springs are typically found in rugged mountainous terrain, and if the geological conditions in the area are unstable, there is a risk of hazards such as falling rocks and landslides.

The mountains are home to many wild animals, so please be careful when out at night and avoid conflicts with wildlife.

Wild hot spring trails are often unmarked, and without experience or proper preparation, it's easy to get lost.

Poor signal in the mountains makes it difficult to call for help in an emergency, so bringing a radio to stay in touch with the outside world is also crucial.

• Layering: Temperatures in the wild can fluctuate significantly, especially in mountainous or river valley areas where day-night temperature differences are pronounced. Therefore, dress in layers so you can easily add or remove clothing to adapt to changing temperatures.
• Breathable and Quick-Drying: Since outdoor activities often lead to sweating, it's crucial to choose clothing that is breathable, wicks moisture effectively, and dries quickly. Avoid wearing 100% cotton, as it absorbs water and dries slowly, leaving you feeling damp and cold.

• Base Layer (Wicking): Choose close-fitting, moisture-wicking clothing like quick-dry underwear or breathable athletic wear to keep your body dry.
• Mid-Layer (Insulation): Select an appropriate mid-layer based on the weather, such as a fleece jacket or a lightweight down jacket, for warmth without bulk. This layer should trap heat while also allowing body moisture to escape.
• Outer Layer (Windproof, Waterproof Jacket): To prepare for changing weather, bring a windproof and waterproof jacket or coat to protect against wind and rain.

• Quick-dry pants: Choose quick-drying athletic or outdoor pants, and avoid non-breathable, water-absorbent materials like jeans. If local temperatures are low, pair them with moisture-wicking long underwear for added warmth.
• Thermal leggings: Wear thermal leggings at night or in cold weather to keep your legs warm.

• Waterproof hiking boots/non-slip shoes: What shoes should you wear for a wild hot spring camping trip? We recommend waterproof, non-slip hiking boots or outdoor shoes, suitable for walking on muddy or slippery terrain. If your itinerary involves a lot of river tracing, you can wear river tracing shoes for better grip on slippery riverbanks.
• Thick outdoor socks: Wear thick but comfortable socks to protect your feet, keep them warm, and prevent blisters from friction. Choosing quick-drying socks helps keep your feet dry.

• Swimsuit: Bring a suitable swimsuit for the hot springs. Quick-drying materials are best for easy changing.

• Thermal underwear: Temperatures drop at night when camping, so we recommend wearing thermal underwear to maintain your body temperature.
• Hats and gloves: When it's cold, a warm hat and a pair of gloves will protect your head and hands, preventing discomfort from the cold.

• Hats: Hats are essential regardless of the season. Choose a sun hat for summer and a warm hat for winter to prevent heat loss.
• Sunglasses: When active during the day, sunglasses protect your eyes from UV damage, especially in high-altitude or brightly lit areas.
• Insect-repellent clothing: If you're heading to areas with many mosquitoes, choose long-sleeved, insect-repellent clothing to reduce the chance of bites.

• Tent: Choose a windproof, waterproof outdoor tent that's sized appropriately for your group. Wild riverbeds have uneven terrain, so tent stability is crucial; we recommend a tent with sturdy stakes.
• Sleeping bag: Bring a sleeping bag suited to the local climate. For cold weather, choose a warm sleeping bag to prevent getting chilled at night.
• Sleeping pad/air mattress: Opt for a lightweight, insulating sleeping pad or air mattress. This will enhance comfort and insulate you from the cold ground.
• Lighting: Carry a rechargeable camping lantern or headlamp to ensure safe and convenient nighttime activities. Reliable light sources are essential for moving around at night or illuminating your tent.
• Tarp: A tarp is a common outdoor shelter, typically made from waterproof, durable fabric, providing shade, rain protection, and wind resistance.

• Stove: A small outdoor gas stove or camping stove is convenient for cooking and boiling water. Bring enough fuel for multi-day camping.
• Fire pit: If you want a campfire, bring a fire pit for warmth.
• Cookware and utensils: Lightweight cookware (such as pots, frying pans), utensils (forks, knives, spoons), and a kettle. Choose lightweight, easy-to-clean materials like stainless steel or aluminum.
• Food and water: Bring enough dry goods, instant meals, and snacks, and store enough drinking water. Depending on local conditions, consider bringing a filter or water purification equipment for emergencies.

• Helmet: Most wild hot spring areas are located in river valleys, where falling rocks are common. We recommend wearing a helmet to protect your head while moving around.
• Climbing Rope: Choose an abrasion-resistant, waterproof climbing rope with sufficient strength to support weight during climbing. The length and type of rope should be selected based on the route's length and technical difficulty.
• Harness: Ensures you are securely fastened during climbing or river tracing, guaranteeing personal safety.
• D-ring Carabiner: Used to secure ropes, climbing points, or as part of a safety system to prevent accidental detachment.

• First-aid kit: Carry basic first-aid supplies, including bandages, pain relievers, disinfectant, adhesive bandages, and snakebite emergency items, to handle unexpected situations in the wilderness.
• GPS/compass: In remote areas, a GPS or compass can help you avoid getting lost, ensuring you can correctly find hot springs and campsites.
• Multi-tool knife: A multi-tool knife can be used for cutting ropes, repairing equipment, preparing food, and more, making it an essential camping tool.

• Power bank: A dead phone is a serious problem, so bring a power bank with enough juice to charge your phone or camera.
• Waterproof backpack: Choose a backpack with waterproof features. Most bags are only "splash-proof," so if you're going to a stream, you'll need an extra layer of waterproofing. Line the inside of your bag with a mushroom bag or use waterproof storage bags. Without proper protection, your sleeping bag or warm clothes could get wet when crossing streams.
• Waterproof phone strap: Use this on the trail to keep your phone safe from water.
• Insect repellent: There are more insects in the wild, so bring mosquito repellent spray or patches. You can also bring mosquito coils to place around the campsite to avoid bites.
• Rain gear: Even if the forecast is clear, it's essential to bring a raincoat when hiking in the mountains, in case of sudden rain.
• Camping chair: Sit and relax at the campsite instead of always sitting cross-legged on the ground.
• Picnic mat: Lay this on the ground for temporary breaks or cooking to keep things off the dirt.
• Toilet paper, tissues: For cleaning and wiping items.
• Trash bags: Bring enough trash bags to ensure you take all your trash with you, leaving no trace behind.

You can typically apply for permits through the official websites of national parks or managing agencies; some areas may require booking several weeks to months in advance. When applying, you'll need to provide your camping dates, the number of campers, and other relevant information.

1. Find the application portal
Log in to the National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior.
Click "Mountain Entry Permit Application System."
2. Enter personal information
Enter your ID or ARC number and verification code to access the "Mountain Entry Application Data Entry" page.
3. Fill in team leader information
Fill in the team leader's basic information.
At the bottom of the form, select your stay period and search for the hot spring you plan to visit.
4. Select route and write a plan
Select the hiking route map.
Briefly fill out the hiking plan, for example: "D1: XX Hot Spring — same-day round trip."
5. Fill in the mountain entry roster
After completing the team leader form, click "Mountain Entry Roster."
Enter the details for the team leader and all members.
6. Submit application
After filling in all information, submit the application.
7. Await review
The application status will show "Not Reviewed."
Check your email for a "Mountain Entry Permit Application Notification."
8. Application approved
You will receive the "Mountain Entry Permit" and "Mountain Entry Personnel Roster" in your email.
9. Print and submit
Print the paper permit and roster before your departure.
On the day of departure, submit the paper documents to the mountain entry inspection unit.

• Do not pick plants.
• Do not damage the terrain.
• Do not make noise.
• Do not damage surrounding plants; maintain the natural landscape of the hot spring area.
• Avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Do not bring chemical substances like soap or shampoo into the wild hot springs, to avoid damaging the spring water's ecosystem.
• Take all trash with you to avoid polluting the environment. Remember to use reusable containers to reduce single-use waste.

• Wild hot springs are often remote, so choose a location that's relatively flat and easy to access.
• Avoid hot springs located next to rapids.
• Outdoor environments can change rapidly, so always check weather conditions before you go.
• Avoid visiting during bad weather or rain to prevent dangers from rising water levels or landslides.
• Temperatures by the stream can vary greatly between day and night, so stay warm to avoid catching a cold.
• Do not set up camp too close to the stream (avoid the riverbed) to prevent danger from flash floods washing away your tent.