Keeping Cool in the Pool

Summer is here, and swimming season is just around the corner in Ichinoseki! I thought I would write about swimming pool usage here, since there were a few things, namely rules, that surprised me.

As I mentioned earlier, it's almost swimming season. But what does that mean exactly...

Swimming pools, especially outdoor ones, usually have a specific season, often during the summer months.

The term 「プール開き」 (puuru biraki) translates to "pool opening" and signifies an annual event or ceremony that marks the start of the swimming season. This usually occurs in late June or early July and often involves public or school pools.

Although Ichinoseki is located inland, you might consider heading to the coast, like to neighbouring Kesennuma, for its popular beaches. Similarly, there is a term called 「海開き」(umi biraki) which means "opening the beach". This marks the start of the swimming season at beaches.

Practically speaking, pool and beach openings ensure a safe environment by setting rules, designating swimming areas, and providing lifeguards. Pools with a "pool opening" date will also have a closing date, and cannot be used outside of those dates.

Swimming at the beach outside the designated swimming season in Japan is generally not recommended due to safety issues and the absence of lifeguards. If you decide to swim, exercise caution and verify any local rules or restrictions. 

Ichinoseki Pool Season 2025 (Ichinoseki Swimming Pool, Hanaizumi Swimming Pool-kids pool only, Higashiyama B&G Kaiyo Center)

Pool opening	June 28 （Sat）
Pool closing	Sept 7 （Sun）

General rules and tips for public swimming pools:

Below are the rules for using the Ichinoseki Swimming Pool. These rules will help you prepare before you take a dip or bring your children to the local swimming pool. While they might not fully apply to every swimming facility in Ichinoseki (such as leisure pools or or pools found at private gyms), they serve as a useful guide. Generally, there is an emphasis on hygiene, including showering before entering the pool, wearing swim caps, removing jewelry and glasses. Also as a safety rule, there is a blanket ban on diving into the pool unless you have special permission. If you forget to bring a swimming cap, most facilities sell them. Make sure to read the specific guidelines when visiting any pool facility.

Rules at Ichinoseki Swimming Pool

①  Infants and children in the third grade or below, must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (20 years or older) to enter the pool.

②  The 50m pool is for elementary school students and above. For third grade students and younger to use the pool, they must be accompanied in the pool by an adult who is wearing swimwear. This rule also applies to the 25m pool (third grade students and younger must be accompanied in the pool by an adult who is wearing swimwear). If the accompanying person is not swimming, please use the “slide pool”.

*Preschool children must be accompanied in the slide pool.

③  Shoes are not allowed to be worn in the pool and poolside area.

④  Swimwear and a swim cap are required to be worn in the pool.

⑤  The use of things that may pollute the water such as soaps, shampoos, tanning lotions/oils, are prohibited.

⑥  Please shower and perform warm-up exercises before entering the pool.

⑦  Individuals who feel unwell or have consumed alcohol are prohibited to use the pool.

⑧  Use of swimming goggles is permitted. However, the use of eyewear such as diving googles (glass lenses) is prohibited. Glasses must be removed before entering the pool.

⑨  There is a blanket ban on diving into the pool. However, if it’s for competitive practice, it should be limited to 10 minutes under the supervision of an instructor or companion. Please notify the office in advance.

⑩  Do not run around the pool side as it is dangerous.

⑪  Smoking and drinking are prohibited on the premises.

⑫  If you notice someone drowning or injured, alert staff immediately.

⑬ Please follow the instructions of staff.

*Swimming hours are until 4:30 p.m. for 4th, 5th, 6th graders, and until 5:00 p.m. for junior high school students.

*Swimming hours until 18:45 if accompanied by parent or guardian.

*Children still in diapers must wear swimwear over their swim diaper/swim pants and may only use the kiddie pool. Admission is free.

• For information on admission/fees and schedules, please refer to 一関水泳プール (Ichinoseki Swimming Pool) information page. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ichinoseki_swimmingpool_/

Pool fashion

Ichinoseki Swimming Pool allow for any type of swimwear (just exercise common sense, like don't wear a see-through bikini). *A small, standalone tattoo can remain uncovered, but larger tattoos or multiple tattoos should be covered with swimwear like a rashguard.