Onsen Etiquette: How to Enjoy a Japanese Hot Spring

Soaking in an onsen (natural hot spring) is one of Japan's great pleasures. The etiquette is simple once you know it, and following it lets you relax with confidence.

Before you get in

• Baths are usually separated by gender. Note the curtains: red often marks the women's bath, blue the men's.
• Undress fully in the changing room. Onsen are enjoyed nude — swimsuits are not worn.
• You will be given (or can bring) a small towel.

Washing first

Before entering the bath, wash and rinse your body thoroughly at the seated washing stations. Everyone shares the same bath water, so getting clean first is essential.

In the bath

• Do not let your small towel touch the water — fold it on your head or set it at the edge.
• Tie up long hair so it stays out of the water.
• Keep the volume down, do not swim, and move gently.

Tattoos

Some onsen still restrict guests with tattoos. If you have tattoos, you can:

• Look for tattoo-friendly onsen or private baths (*kashikiri*).
• Cover a small tattoo with a skin patch where permitted.
• Ask the facility in advance to avoid disappointment.

After the bath

Many people prefer to lightly pat off rather than fully rinse, so the minerals stay on the skin — but do dry off before returning to the changing room so you do not drip everywhere.

Relax, take it slowly, and enjoy one of the most restorative experiences Japan has to offer.