Is bottled water in Thailand safe? What Japanese people need to know about the water situation in Thailand
Bottled water becomes everyday drinking water in Thailand
One of the first differences that Japanese people who have just arrived in Thailand notice is the choice of drinking water. In Japan, tap water is often drinkable, so many people don't have the habit of buying water every day. However, in Thailand, drinking tap water straight is not common, and many people buy bottled water to drink.
Convenience stores and supermarkets stock a variety of sizes of water, and some people buy small bottles to take on the go, while others buy in bulk for home use. In Thailand, bottled water is not something special, but can be considered a part of life.
If you would like to know more about the water situation in Thailand as a whole, please see this comprehensive article.
Complete Guide to Thailand's Water Situation: Differences Between Tap Water, Bottled Water, and Mineral Water
What types of bottled water are there in Thailand?
Bottled water sold in Thailand can be broadly divided into mineral water and drinking water. Mineral water is often sourced from groundwater or natural springs and is characterized by its mineral content. Drinking water, on the other hand, is drinking water that has been filtered and treated.
Both are sold as beverages, but Japanese people may feel there is a difference in their "drinkability." The impression of water varies depending on the product, and because it is something you drink every day, it is important to find one that suits your taste.
How should we think about safety?
Bottled water sold in Thailand is a type of drinking water that many people use on a daily basis, so tourists and residents alike can feel more at ease if they stick to bottled water.
However, what's important is where you buy it and how you store it. It's safer to buy it from a place with a stable distribution system, such as a convenience store or supermarket. Also, in hot environments, the bottle may be exposed to high temperatures, so it's a good idea to store it away from direct sunlight.
What kind of water is easy for Japanese people to drink?
Japanese people are generally accustomed to soft water, so it is said that they often find water with a soft mouthfeel easier to drink. A well-known factor that affects the drinkability of water is "hardness." Water with a high hardness tends to have a mineral taste, while water with a low hardness tends to have a soft mouthfeel.
For more information on choosing mineral water in Thailand, please see the following article:
Recommended Thai mineral water | How to choose water that is easy for Japanese people to drink
In hot Thailand, it's important to stay hydrated
Thailand's hot climate means staying hydrated, both indoors and outdoors. The important thing is not to drink a lot of good quality water at once, but to drink it frequently and without straining yourself. In that sense, bottled water, which is readily available and easy to drink, is a great choice.
Staying hydrated is not only important for maintaining good health, but also for a beauty-conscious lifestyle. That's why it's important to choose water that you can easily drink every day.
The concept of natural hot spring water from Tarumi Onsen in Kagoshima
For those who value Japanese quality, Onsen-sui 99, the natural hot spring water from Tarumi Onsen in Kagoshima Prefecture, is another option. Onsen-sui 99 is alkaline ionized water with a pH of 9.9 and a hardness of 1.7, making it an ultra-soft natural water. Its smooth taste has made it a favorite in Japan for over 30 years.
In a hot environment like Thailand, the water you drink every day has a direct impact on your quality of life. For this reason, the characteristics of ultra-soft water are attractive to those who are particular about easy-to-drink quality and Japanese quality.
summary
In Thailand, bottled water has become a common drinking water source and is a very familiar part of daily life. The important thing is to understand the water situation in Thailand and choose a water that is easy to drink and easy to continue using.
Knowing the differences between tap water and mineral water will make it easier to choose the right one for you.
Related articles
Is tap water in Thailand drinkable? Differences with Japan and how to choose safe water
Recommended Thai mineral water | How to choose water that is easy for Japanese people to drink
