Hot Spring Facility to Temporarily Close as Heavy Oil Shortage Hits

Mar 20, 2026 | News On Japan

HYOGO, Mar 20, 2026 (News On Japan) - As geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensify, raising fears of potential disruptions to key oil shipping routes and production facilities, concerns over a prolonged crude oil supply shortage are deepening, with knock-on effects already emerging in Japan as businesses reliant on fuel—particularly heavy oil for industrial and commercial use—begin to face procurement difficulties, forcing some to suspend operations temporarily.

A notice has been posted at a hot spring facility in Tamba-Sasayama, Hyogo Prefecture, announcing a temporary closure starting March 28th, according to a report by Hamada Ran.

The facility has been unable to procure heavy oil, which is used as fuel for its boilers.

Sugio Yoshihiro, president of Konda Yakushi Onsen, said, "Even if the price of heavy oil rises a little, we can manage. It’s difficult, but what’s worse is not having any at all. There’s nothing we can do without it."

The facility was informed by its supplier three days earlier that deliveries of heavy oil would not be possible.

Sugio said he pleaded over the phone, saying, "I told them, ‘Bring whatever you have!’"

With no clear prospect of securing fuel, the facility is struggling to cope. Sugio noted that operations can continue only until March 27th based on current calculations, adding that uncertainty over when supply conditions will return to normal is a major concern.

Visitors expressed surprise at the situation, with one saying, "I had no idea," while another commented, "I didn’t realize it would affect even hot spring facilities." A third added, "It’s shocking that not just gasoline, but even leisure facilities are being impacted."

Source: YOMIURI

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