Thermal Springs Tourism - Global Strategic Business Report

The global market for Thermal Springs Tourism was estimated at US$55.9 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$115.6 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Thermal Springs Tourism market.

Global Thermal Springs Tourism Market - Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Is Wellness Travel Powering the Revival of Thermal Springs Tourism?

In an age where wellness and holistic health are increasingly prioritized, thermal springs tourism is undergoing a global renaissance, evolving beyond its traditional roots into a dynamic sector of the wellness tourism industry. Thermal springs - naturally heated groundwater rich in minerals - have been revered for centuries for their therapeutic and rejuvenating properties. Today, they are being reimagined as integral components of spa resorts, wellness retreats, and medical tourism destinations. From Japan's onsen culture to Europe's historic bathhouses and emerging eco-resorts in Latin America and Southeast Asia, the appeal of hot springs transcends geography and demographics. As stress, burnout, and chronic health issues become global health challenges, travelers are seeking restorative experiences that offer more than relaxation - favoring destinations that provide physical healing, mental clarity, and immersive natural environments. Operators are responding by integrating hydrotherapy, balneotherapy, aromatherapy, and wellness diagnostics into thermal spring offerings, effectively transforming these natural assets into comprehensive health sanctuaries. The post-pandemic surge in wellness travel has only amplified interest in such experiences, positioning thermal springs tourism as a cornerstone in the global health tourism movement.

Why Are Shifting Traveler Preferences Driving a New Era for Hot Spring Destinations?

Modern travelers are redefining what they seek in leisure and vacation experiences, with a clear shift toward personal wellness, sustainability, and immersive cultural engagement. This evolution is directly benefiting the thermal springs tourism market, as visitors move away from mass tourism and toward individualized, meaningful, and health-enhancing journeys. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are fueling demand for authentic, nature-centric experiences that combine adventure with rejuvenation. In response, many thermal destinations are blending traditional hydrotherapy with yoga, meditation, and digital detox programs to create multidimensional wellness offerings. Additionally, travelers are increasingly informed about the benefits of mineral-rich water therapies in treating conditions such as arthritis, respiratory disorders, skin ailments, and circulatory issues, making them more inclined to seek out destinations that provide medically validated programs. The rising popularity of “slow travel” is also a boon to remote and rural thermal spring locations, where visitors spend longer periods engaging with local cultures, cuisines, and crafts. Eco-conscious tourists are choosing hot springs resorts that emphasize environmental conservation, natural aesthetics, and sustainable operations - adding an ethical dimension to the appeal of thermal springs. This combination of health benefits, experiential travel, and eco-sensitivity is fundamentally transforming how travelers interact with thermal spring destinations.

Can Innovation and Infrastructure Investment Elevate Thermal Tourism to Global Wellness Standards?

As demand grows, investment in infrastructure and service innovation is elevating the global profile of thermal springs tourism. Governments, especially in Europe and Asia-Pacific, are positioning thermal wellness as a strategic pillar of their national tourism development plans. In countries like Hungary, South Korea, and Turkey, public-private partnerships are revitalizing historic bathhouses, modernizing facilities, and promoting wellness zones through digital tourism campaigns. Meanwhile, the integration of modern medical services - such as diagnostic imaging, physiotherapy, and post-surgical rehabilitation - within thermal spa resorts is giving rise to a robust medical wellness niche. Technology is also transforming the guest experience: thermal resorts now offer AI-powered wellness assessments, mobile booking apps, personalized hydrotherapy routines, and digital detox zones free from electromagnetic interference. Infrastructure investments are expanding access to remote hot spring destinations through improved transportation links, eco-lodges, and immersive guided programs. Sustainability is being woven into operational models through geothermal energy use, water recycling, and biodiversity conservation. These developments are helping thermal destinations meet the expectations of high-value wellness travelers and compete with global wellness hubs like Bali, Costa Rica, and Switzerland. By bridging natural healing traditions with modern wellness science, thermal spring tourism is becoming a globally standardized, premium segment of the broader wellness economy.

What Forces Are Driving the Global Expansion of the Thermal Springs Tourism Market?

The growth in the thermal springs tourism market is driven by several interlinked factors rooted in wellness demand, demographic shifts, environmental awareness, and travel industry evolution. One of the primary drivers is the global surge in health and wellness tourism, which has accelerated in the wake of COVID-19 and ongoing lifestyle-related health issues. An aging global population, particularly in developed economies, is increasingly seeking therapeutic travel options that support longevity and joint, muscular, or chronic condition management - areas where thermal therapy excels. Rising disposable incomes and greater awareness of holistic healing are encouraging middle-class travelers in emerging economies to explore wellness-focused getaways. The inclusion of thermal wellness in national tourism promotion strategies - combined with regulatory support for medical hydrotherapy - has also spurred cross-border collaboration and investment. Digitalization of the travel industry has made it easier for travelers to discover, compare, and book hot spring experiences, with wellness aggregators and review platforms enhancing transparency and appeal. Additionally, growing interest in climate-conscious and nature-based tourism has positioned thermal springs as ideal eco-luxury destinations that blend comfort with environmental harmony. These trends, alongside increasing scientific validation of balneotherapy benefits and industry standardization, are fueling sustained growth and elevating thermal springs tourism to a prominent position within the global wellness travel market.

Scope of Study:

The report analyzes the Thermal Springs Tourism market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:

• Segments: Service Type (Recreational, Therapeutic & Wellness, Luxury & Spa Services, Others); Traveler Type (Domestic, International)
• Geographic Regions/Countries: World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; Spain; Russia; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific (Australia; India; South Korea; and Rest of Asia-Pacific); Latin America (Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; and Rest of Latin America); Middle East (Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; United Arab Emirates; and Rest of Middle East); and Africa.

Key Insights:

• Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Recreational segment, which is expected to reach US$47.1 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 12.1%. The Therapeutic & Wellness segment is also set to grow at 11.3% CAGR over the analysis period.
• Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, estimated at $15.2 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 17.1% CAGR to reach $24.2 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.

Why You Should Buy This Report:

• Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Thermal Springs Tourism Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
• Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
• Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Thermal Springs Tourism Market.
• Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.

Key Questions Answered:

• How is the Global Thermal Springs Tourism Market expected to evolve by 2030?
• What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
• Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
• How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
• Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?

Report Features:

• Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
• In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
• Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as 7132 Thermal Baths, Amanemu, Aquaria Thermal SPA at Terme di Sirmione, Blue Lagoon, Castle Hot Springs Spa and more.
• Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.

Some of the 44 companies featured in this Thermal Springs Tourism market report include:

• 7132 Thermal Baths
• Amanemu
• Aquaria Thermal SPA at Terme di Sirmione
• Blue Lagoon
• Castle Hot Springs Spa
• Fonteverde Lifestyle & Thermal Retreat
• Gellért Thermal Bath
• Grand Resort Bad Ragaz
• HOSHINOYA Guguan
• KAI Kirishima
• Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
• Nayara Springs
• Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd.
• Pamukkale Thermal Pools
• Polynesian Spa
• Puyehue Hot Springs Hotel
• QC Terme Bagni di Bormio
• Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort
• Spa Thermal Park of Montecatini Terme
• St. Martins Therme & Lodge
• Terme Di Saturnia
• The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts as of June 2025 into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include:

• Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs.
• Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes segmentation by product, technology, type, material, distribution channel, application, and end-use, with historical analysis since 2015.
• Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends.
• Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape.
• Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025, competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players.
• Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities.
• Complimentary Update: Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with finalized tariff impacts, new trade agreement effects, revised projections, and expanded country-level coverage.