Drinking Water in Thailand: Can You Drink Tap Water? How to Choose Bottled Water for Japanese People [2026 Edition]
When you start traveling or living in Thailand, one thing many people are concerned about is drinking water.
In Japan, tap water is generally safe to drink directly, but in Thailand, it's common to use bottled water. For this reason, many tourists and residents in Thailand purchase drinking water at convenience stores and supermarkets.
However, there are many types of bottled water and mineral water sold in Thailand, and many people are unsure which water to choose or which water is suitable for Japanese palates.
As someone living in Thailand, I've realized the importance of choosing water carefully, as even the same drinking water can have different tastes.
This article will explain everything from the tap water situation in Thailand to how to choose bottled water and points recommended for Japanese people.
Is tap water in Thailand drinkable?
Tap water in Thailand is used for daily life, but it is not intended for direct consumption as it is in Japan.
Therefore, many Thais and foreigners use bottled water for drinking.
It is common for both tourists and residents to use bottled water or water purifiers.
If you want to know more about tap water in Thailand, please refer to the following article.
▶ Is Thailand's Tap Water Drinkable? Differences from Japan and How to Choose Safe Water
Where to buy bottled water in Thailand
In Thailand, drinking water is easily available.
7-Eleven
With numerous stores across Thailand, it's the most convenient place to buy.
Lotus's
You can buy it along with daily necessities and food, and it's convenient for buying in bulk.
Big C
Known as a large supermarket, it's suitable for bulk purchases.
Tops
They also handle imported foods and high-quality products.
Makro
Recommended for those who want to buy commercial sizes or in cases.
What types of bottled water are available in Thailand?
Various types of drinking water are sold in Thailand.
Purified water
Water from which impurities have been removed through filtration or distillation.
Mineral water
Drinking water containing mineral components.
Natural mineral water
Water collected from natural sources.
Natural alkaline mineral water
Water that has passed through natural geological layers over many years and naturally become alkaline.
3 tips for Japanese people choosing water in Thailand
1. Check if it's soft water
Most natural water in Japan is soft water.
Generally,
- Soft water: Hardness less than 100mg/L
- Medium-hard water: Hardness 100-300mg/L
- Hard water: Hardness 300mg/L or more
is classified as.
Many Japanese people are accustomed to soft water, so choosing soft or ultra-soft water in Thailand can make it easier to drink.
For more information on the difference between soft and hard water, please refer to this article.
2. Emphasize drinkability
Thailand is hot all year round, and hydration is essential.
Because it's water you drink every day,
- Easy to drink
- Minimal flavor
- Sustainable
It is important.
3. Choose according to usage
Water is not just for drinking.
- Coffee
- Tea
- Dashi
- Rice cooking
- Whiskey
etc. are also used for.
The appropriate water varies depending on the use.
Why do Japanese prefer soft water?
Japan is a country with a rare soft water culture.
Japanese food culture, including green tea, dashi, and miso soup, is said to go well with soft water.
Living in Thailand, I personally feel that soft water pairs better with Japanese food and tea.
Water affects the taste of coffee and food
Water is not just a drink; it also affects the taste of food and beverages.
Coffee
The aroma and bitterness can change depending on the water.
Coffee lovers, please also refer to this article.
▶ Does water change coffee? Differences between soft and hard water and how to brew delicious coffee
Tea
Soft water is said to bring out the natural sweetness and umami of tea.
Dashi
It easily brings out the umami of kelp and bonito flakes, and pairs well with Japanese cuisine.
For more details, please refer to the following article.
▶ Does Dashi Change This Much With Water? The "Right Water Choice" to Bring Out Umami
Cooking rice
It also affects the sweetness and texture of rice.
Because it's water you use every day, not just drinkability but also compatibility with food is important.
Japanese Quality Natural Alkaline Mineral Water "ONSENSUI99"
For those looking for Japanese-quality natural alkaline mineral water in Thailand, ONSENSUI99 is an option.
ONSENSUI99 is natural alkaline mineral water collected in Tarumizu City, Kagoshima Prefecture.
It is known as natural water collected from approximately 750m underground and naturally filtered over many years.
Features of ONSENSUI99
- pH 9.5-9.9
- Ultra-soft water with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L
- Collected from approximately 750m underground
- Manufactured and quality-controlled in Japan
It is natural water characterized by its mellow taste, unique to ultra-soft water, and is suitable not only for drinking as is but also for tea, coffee, dashi, and more.
The choice of water differs between Thai tourists and Thai residents.
For Thai tourists
Key points to consider
- Safety
- Portability
- Availability
For Thai residents
Key points to consider
- Drinkability
- Quality
- Sustainability
- Compatibility with food and drinks
Because it's something you'll be using for a long time, it's important to choose water that suits you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drink tap water in Thailand?
Most tourists and foreign residents use bottled water.
Is the water bought at Thai convenience stores safe?
Generally, products from major manufacturers are properly managed.
Is there any water recommended for Japanese people in Thailand?
Japanese people are accustomed to soft water, so choosing soft or ultra-soft water tends to be easier to drink.
What is the difference between soft and hard water?
It is the difference in the amount of minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
Can ONSENSUI99 be purchased in Thailand?
It is officially sold in Thailand.
Summary
Various bottled water and mineral water are sold in Thailand.
When choosing water,
- Safety
- Hardness
- Drinkability
- Purpose
It is important to confirm.
Especially for Japanese people, choosing soft or ultra-soft water will allow them to feel a familiar drinking experience.
Because it's water you drink every day, choose good quality water that suits you and enjoy a comfortable life or trip in Thailand.
Related articles
▶ Is Thailand's Tap Water Drinkable? Differences from Japan and How to Choose Safe Water
▶ Does water change coffee? Differences between soft and hard water and how to brew delicious coffee
▶ Does Dashi Change This Much With Water? The "Right Water Choice" to Bring Out Umami
▶ Is Thailand's Tap Water Drinkable? Differences from Japan and How to Choose Safe Water
