Is tap water in Thailand drinkable? Differences with Japan and how to choose safe water
It is best not to think of tap water in Thailand in the same way as in Japan.
One of the first questions Japanese people ask when they come to Thailand is, "Is tap water safe to drink?" In Japan, there are many areas where tap water is drinkable, so people tend to think of it as an extension of their daily lives. However, in Thailand, while tap water is used for daily life, it is not common to drink it straight from the tap.
For this reason, it is standard practice in Thailand to prepare drinking water separately. Many people, both tourists and residents, use bottled water or water dispensers for drinking water, so it is natural to think of water for daily use and drinking water as separate things.
You can also check out this comprehensive article for information on the water situation in Thailand as a whole.
Complete Guide to Thailand's Water Situation: Differences Between Tap Water, Bottled Water, and Mineral Water
How is water used for daily life?
Tap water in Thailand is widely used in daily life for showering, washing hands, washing faces, washing dishes, doing laundry, etc. This does not mean that tap water cannot be used in daily life. In fact, it is commonly used in many households.
The areas of concern are brushing teeth and gargling, but people have different opinions on these. The more accustomed people are to their lifestyle, the more flexible they are in using them depending on the purpose. However, when it comes to water for daily drinking, it is still common to prepare it separately.
How do you prepare drinking water?
The easiest way to drink water in Thailand is to buy bottled water at convenience stores or supermarkets. Many people use bottled water because it is readily available on the go and comes in a variety of sizes. It is also common for people to use water servers at home or in the office.
For more information about bottled water in Thailand, please see this article.
Is bottled water in Thailand safe? What Japanese people need to know about the water situation in Thailand
The importance of "distinguishing between words" when living in Thailand
In Thailand, the idea of water is not to simply decide whether tap water is safe or dangerous, but rather to use it for different purposes. By separating the water used for daily life from the water you drink, your daily life becomes much easier to understand.
Once you get used to this feeling, life in Thailand will be much easier. Rather than being confused by the differences from Japan, if you understand that "that's just how things are in Thailand," you will be able to cope more easily.
It's important to have drinking water on hand in hot weather
Thailand is a hot country, so staying hydrated is essential, both indoors and outdoors. Because you'll naturally drink more water, it's important to always have access to drinkable water. For those who are particularly health and beauty conscious, daily hydration can be considered a part of their lifestyle.
If you make good use of the water you can buy at convenience stores, staying hydrated while living in Thailand will be much easier.
What kind of water can you buy at convenience stores in Thailand? How to choose and use it conveniently
The choice of natural hot spring water from Tarumi Onsen in Kagoshima
For those who prioritize Japanese-quality drinking water, Onsen-sui 99, 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 water. Characterized by its smooth texture and easy-to-drink taste, it has been popular in Japan for over 30 years.
These features are highly appealing to those in Thailand who prioritize peace of mind, ease of drinking, and Japanese quality when choosing water to drink every day.
summary
Although tap water in Thailand is used for daily life, it is not common to drink it directly. When living in Thailand, it is easier to live comfortably by thinking of daily life water and drinking water separately.
First, it is important to understand the water situation in Thailand and find the drinking water style that suits you.
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