Sayu vs Hot Water: What Is the Difference?

Sayu vs Hot Water: What Is the Difference?

In Japan, people often drink something called sayu (白湯). At first glance, it may seem like just regular hot water, but it actually has a cultural and health-related meaning.

What Is Sayu?

Sayu is plain water that has been boiled once, then cooled down to a comfortable temperature for drinking. The key point is that it is boiled first. Boiling removes chlorine, softens the taste, and is believed to make the water easier on the stomach.

How Is It Different From Regular Hot Water?

• Sayu: Boiled once and cooled before drinking.
• Hot water: Water that is simply heated, such as directly from a kettle or water heater.

So, while both are warm drinks, sayu has gone through the boiling process that gives it a special meaning in Japanese daily life.

Why Do People Drink Sayu?

Drinking sayu is believed to have benefits such as:

• Helping digestion
• Warming the body gently
• Relaxing the stomach and intestines
• Supporting hydration in a mild way

Sayu Around the World

Interestingly, the idea of drinking boiled water is not only in Japan. In traditional Indian Ayurveda, warm boiled water is also recommended for health. Today, some health-conscious people around the world drink sayu for its gentle benefits.

Conclusion

The difference between sayu and hot water may seem small, but in Japanese culture it carries an important role for health and daily life. If you have never tried it, why not boil some water, let it cool a bit, and enjoy a cup of sayu?