Why Do Japanese Bathhouses Sell Pocari Sweat?

Why Do Japanese Bathhouses Sell Pocari Sweat?

The sports drink that's become part of Japan's bathing culture

· Tea and Refreshments

For many visitors to Japan, Pocari Sweat is impossible to ignore. The name is unusual, but despite what it suggests, it contains no sweat.

Developed in 1980, Pocari Sweat is an isotonic sports drink designed to replace water and electrolytes lost through perspiration. After spending time in a hot bath or sauna, it's an easy way to rehydrate, which is why it's sold in bathhouses, gyms and convenience stores across Japan.

Unlike many brightly coloured sports drinks, Pocari Sweat has a light, slightly citrus flavour and a cloudy appearance. Its simple packaging has barely changed in more than forty years, making it one of Japan's most recognisable drinks.

For many Japanese people, buying a cold Pocari Sweat after leaving the baths has become as familiar as buying a bottle of milk or sitting down for a few minutes before heading home.

Japan's bathhouses are full of little traditions.

Join the Yū mailing list for more Journal articles exploring the food, drink and bathing culture inspiring Britain's first Japanese-inspired bathhouse.

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Why Do Japanese Bathhouses Sell Pocari Sweat?

For many visitors to Japan, Pocari Sweat is impossible to ignore. The name is unusual, but despite what it suggests, it contains no sweat.

Developed in 1980, Pocari Sweat is an isotonic sports drink designed to replace water and electrolytes lost through perspiration. After spending time in a hot bath or sauna, it's an easy way to rehydrate, which is why it's sold in bathhouses, gyms and convenience stores across Japan.

Unlike many brightly coloured sports drinks, Pocari Sweat has a light, slightly citrus flavour and a cloudy appearance. Its simple packaging has barely changed in more than forty years, making it one of Japan's most recognisable drinks.

For many Japanese people, buying a cold Pocari Sweat after leaving the baths has become as familiar as buying a bottle of milk or sitting down for a few minutes before heading home.

Japan's bathhouses are full of little traditions.

Join the Yū mailing list for more Journal articles exploring the food, drink and bathing culture inspiring Britain's first Japanese-inspired bathhouse.