Water, the first thing that perplexed me about life in Thailand | Differences between Japan and other countries that you notice when living abroad
The First Thing That Surprised Me About Life in Thailand
A new life in Thailand.
Assignments, study abroad, job changes, relocation—.
A new environment offers
many joys.
However,
once you start living there,
"It's different than I expected."
It's not uncommon to feel this way.
Among these,
the first thing that many Japanese people find confusing
is "water."
In Japan, I wasn't conscious of "water."
In Japan,
it's not uncommon to drink tap water directly.
Even at convenience stores,
while you might buy water as you would any other drink,
"choosing water for daily life"
This feeling probably wasn't very strong for many people.
However, in Thai life,
・Drinking water
・Water for cooking
・Ice
・Coffee and tea
・Cooking rice
and so on,
You'll find yourself becoming more conscious of "water" in your daily life.
In Thailand, "buying water" is the norm.
In Thailand,
most people routinely buy drinking water.
Convenience stores, supermarkets, delivery—.
You can find various mineral waters
everywhere in the city.
At first,
"Which one should I choose?"
You might feel a bit lost.
If you try comparing them, you'll notice
・Differences in taste
・Mouthfeel
・Drinkability
There are surprisingly many differences depending on the water.
Moments when you feel the "taste of water" is different.
Since starting life in Thailand,
"The water tastes different."
Many Japanese people feel this way.
Especially,
・When drunk at room temperature
・When brewing coffee
・When making tea
・When cooking rice
It is said that differences are often felt during these times.
Japan is a country with a rare "soft water culture" globally.
Therefore,
you might notice the "ease of drinking" that you didn't realize when living in Japan,
when you live abroad.
In hot Thailand, hydration is also important.
Thailand has a hot climate all year round.
Even walking a short distance outside
can make you sweat.
Therefore,
more than when you were in Japan,
"Drinking water frequently"
This habit naturally increases.
Especially,
・Commuting
・Going out
・Sports
・Travel
・Cafe hopping
Many people feel the importance of hydration
in various daily situations.
Choosing "safe water" while living abroad.
When living abroad,
small "comforts" can become important.
An unfamiliar environment.
An unfamiliar language.
An unfamiliar daily routine.
In such a daily life,
"Drinking your usual water"
This time can sometimes lead to a little peace of mind.
ONSENSUI99 is a natural alkaline hot spring water from the underground waters of Tarumizu Onsen in Kagoshima Prefecture.
Known for its ultra-soft water with a hardness of 1.7,
it is cherished as a natural water with a mild taste that is easy to drink even at room temperature.
It might be an opportunity to re-evaluate your daily "water habits" in your new life in Thailand.
To everyone starting a new life in Thailand
ONSENSUI99 Thailand offers
for those starting a new life in Thailand,
the "ONSENSUI99 New Life Support Program 2026".
is being implemented.
Five selected individuals will receive ONSENSUI99 (500ml x 30 bottles) free of charge every month for 3 months.
We hope to bring a little peace of mind and gentleness
to your daily life in a new environment.
▶ ONSENSUI99 New Life Support Program 2026
Related Articles
▶ Hydration and Healthy Habits in Thai Life
▶ Comparison of Mineral Waters Available in Thailand
▶ What is "Japanese Water Culture" as Realized While Living Abroad?
▶ About the "Time to Realign" Felt in Thai Life
