NEWS

Beppu City held the first New Therapeutic Onsen & Wellness Human Resource Development Seminar on July 28, 2025, with Vice President Serik MEIRMANOV (Professor, College of Sustainability and Tourism）delivering the keynote address.

Beppu City’s “New Therapeutic Onsen & Wellness” initiative promotes a new model of tourism by scientifically demonstrating the health benefits of hot springs and combining them with local resources such as nature, cuisine, and culture. The program aims to enhance both physical and mental well-being while fostering long-stay tourism in the region.

The inaugural seminar, entitled “The Benefits and Effects of Hot Springs — Unveiling the Science Behind Beppu’s Natural Wonders,” highlighted diverse applications of balneotherapy, including bathing, drinking, and inhalation. Professor MEIRMANOV, who also serves as an advisor to the city, discussed both the historically recognized therapeutic effects—such as pain relief—and the latest scientific findings. He described Beppu as a “living laboratory for health,” emphasizing the unique value of its hot springs and other natural resources.

The event drew about 50 participants, surpassing expectations, and concluded with an active Q&A session on the scientific evidence of hot spring benefits and future utilization of regional resources.