A First-Timer's Guide to Japanese Hot Spring Etiquettes
Whether it’s snowy winter or lush summer, visiting an onsen is the ultimate Japanese bucket-list item. I know the rules can seem complicated if it's your first time, but don't worry! I’ve put together this guide to onsen etiquette and step-by-step tips so you can dive into this relaxing culture without a second thought.
5 Steps to Mastering the Japanese Onsen Experience
Step 1: Hydrate and Prep
Every year, there are reports of people feeling faint or dizzy while bathing in Japan. This isn't an exaggeration: the combination of high water temperatures and steam can lead to dehydration or shortness of breath.
To stay safe, drink a glass of water before you enter. Additionally, avoid entering the onsen after heavy drinking. Alcohol can interfere with your blood circulation when combined with hot water, which may lead to health risks. Stay sober to stay safe!
Step 2: No Clothes While Entering Bath
In Japanese onsen, swimwear is not allowed. You must remove all clothing in the dressing room and store your belongings in a locker. You are only permitted to bring a small modesty towel into the bathing area. This towel is used to wash your body and, most importantly, to wipe yourself down before returning to the locker room.
Step 3: The Essential Pre-Bath Shower
Before touching the communal pool, you must head to the shower stations. This is a vital rule of hygiene to keep the spring water clean for everyone in Japan. Beyond cleanliness, "Kakeyu" (splashing hot water on yourself) helps your body adjust to the high temperature. Jumping into a hot spring abruptly can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure, so make sure to take your time to acclimate.
Step 4: Reset Your Shower Station
After you’ve finished scrubbing up, it is basic etiquette to rinse your plastic bucket and stool. Once they are clean, return them to their original positions. This "leave it as you found it" mentality is a core part of Japanese culture and ensures the next person has a pleasant start to their bath.
Step 5: Soak, Relax, and Dry Off
Now for the best part: the soak! After you’ve enjoyed the water, the choice to take a final shower is up to you. Many people prefer not to rinse, allowing the therapeutic minerals to stay on their skin. However, if you have sensitive skin or allergies, feel free to do a quick rinse.
Crucial Tip: Before you step back into the carpeted dressing room, use your small towel to wipe the excess water off your body. Keeping the floors dry is a key mark of a respectful onsen guest!
Essential Onsen Manners
- No Smartphones in Dressing or Bathing Areas: To protect privacy and prevent concerns about surreptitious filming, keep phones in your lockers.
- Keep it Quiet: Onsen are places of relaxation. Save loud conversations for the lobby or lounge.
- Rinse Off Visible Dirt First: If you are wearing heavy makeup or are very sweaty, use the washing area or a sink to clean up before entering the communal tubs. Make sure to take a shower before entering the bathing areas.
- Keep Hair Out of the Water: Tie up long hair or use a shower cap. This prevents hair products or loose strands from contaminating the water.
- No Towels in the Tub: Keep your towel on the side of the tub or on your head. Towels can introduce soap residue or fibers into the spring water.
- Be Mindful of Others While Washing: When using the shower or soap, ensure the spray and bubbles don’t hit the people sitting next to you.
- Rinse and Return Stools/Buckets: After washing, rinse your stool and bucket with clean water and return them to their original places.
- Dry Off Before Re-entering the Locker Room: Use your small towel to wipe most of the water off your body before stepping back onto the dressing room floor to prevent slips and wet floors.
Got tattoos?
No problem! You might have heard that Japanese onsen and tattoos don’t always mix. While it’s true that many spots still have "no-tattoo" rules due to old-school traditions, the tides are turning! You don’t have to miss out on this iconic Japanese experience. Check out our blog on the best tattoo-friendly hot spring spots in Tokyo to find your perfect soak.
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