Onsen Beginner's Guide: Etiquette and Bathing Procedure

Japanese onsen offers a wonderful cultural experience that heals both mind and body. To ensure even first-time visitors can enjoy it with peace of mind, we will introduce basic etiquette and bathing procedures. By understanding this traditional custom, you will be able to experience Japanese culture more deeply.

Basic Onsen Etiquette

Upon arriving at an onsen facility, first, remove all your clothes in the changing room and store them in a locker. Here, it is customary in Japan to bathe naked, without wearing a swimsuit. There are two types of towels: large and small. The large bath towel is for drying your body after bathing, while the small towel is used for washing your body or placing on the edge of the bathtub. Before entering the main bath, always thoroughly wash your entire body at the washing station. This is an important practice called "kakeyu," which not only cleanses your body but also helps you get accustomed to the water temperature. Do not put your towel in the bath, and those with long hair should tie it up with a hair tie or similar. It is also important to spend your time quietly and be mindful not to disturb other users. Many facilities restrict entry for individuals with tattoos, but recently, some facilities may allow entry with cover-up stickers or offer private baths (kazokuburo/kashikiriburo), so it is recommended to check in advance.

Comfortable Bathing Procedure

Once you have cleansed your body at the washing station, it's time to head to the main bath. Do not suddenly enter hot water; slowly accustom your body to it, starting from your feet. Immersing your whole body in the hot water and warming up to your heart's content is a special experience. Do not swim or make noise in the bath; simply soak quietly and let the fatigue of your daily life melt away. Prolonged bathing can put a strain on your body, so get out after a reasonable amount of time and remember to rehydrate. After getting out of the bath, it is common to lightly rinse your body or shower off any sweat. Before returning to the changing room, thoroughly wipe off any water droplets from your body using the provided towels or your own small towel. This prevents the changing room from getting wet, allowing the next person to use it comfortably. Enjoying a cold drink in the post-bath resting area is also one of the great pleasures of the onsen experience.

Japan's onsen culture has been cherished by people for centuries. Using this guide as a reference, please enjoy a special time at Japan's beautiful onsen resorts such as Hakone, Beppu, and Kusatsu.

Source: https://www.japan-guide.com/