Relaxing at an onsen is a must-do experience when visiting Japan. There are many unspoken rules in Japanese onsens that you should know before diving into the deep end (pun intended).
Preparing for your onsen experience
Be prepared. Going to an onsen in Japan means you’re going to be completely nude. Onsens don’t allow swimming gear, so make sure to leave those at home. If you have tattoos, make sure the onsen you’re going to visit allows them, as although tattoos are becoming more common in Japan, most onsens still do not allow tattoos.
Another tip is to bring 100 yen coins, in case the lockers require them. They might not, but it’s still good to be prepared.
When you’re in the onsen, leave everything in your locker. And I mean EVERYTHING except a small towel you’re given at the entrance. Do not take your phone into the onsen, and absolutely do not take any pictures.
You’ll be given a big towel to dry off afterwards, but make sure to leave it in your locker until you’re ready to leave. The little towel will be your little privacy curtain if you want to use it as such. Look at what the other people around you are doing, and do the same thing.
Wash yourself properly before getting into the bath. There’s no need to wash your hair, as you’re not allowed to let your hair touch the bath, but make sure to wash everything else well with the soaps provided at the onsen. Often at onsens, you will have a bench to sit on and cleanse yourself before hopping into the bath.
What to do when entering the onsen
Before heading to the bath, there are a few things you should remember. First, you need to take your little towel with you to the bath, so follow what the locals do at that specific onsen. But one thing always stays the same: don’t let the towel touch the water. Most commonly, you’ll place the towel on the top of your head or by the side of the bath.
When you enter the onsen, the best advice is to follow the locals. Onsens are separated by gender, and usually you can tell which side to go on by the color of the doors or signs. Red is for women, and blue is for men. Just in case there is no other way to tell, you can learn the one kanji for your gender to make sure you’re ending up on the right side – 女 (onna) for women and 男 (otoko) for men.
Next, don’t let your hair touch the water. If you have long hair, use a hairband or anything you need to put your hair up. Lastly, just read the room. Don’t be loud, and respect the other people at the onsen by giving them a peaceful experience. Then enjoy the calm, and just relax!
Benefits of Onsens
Onsens are very common spaces for relaxation in Japan, as the natural hot water provides many physical and emotional health benefits. There are plenty of options in the Kansai region, and we recommend SkySpa Candeo Hotels Hirakata. Just a 15-minute walk from OEH, this luxurious hotel features a stunning rooftop onsen, which is open for the general public from 3 pm until 11 am the next day. This is the perfect spot to relax and unwind, especially at sunset or nighttime, as you can enjoy panoramic views of Hirakata!
FAQs: Japanese onsen etiquette guide
If you prefer, you can bring your own towel to dry off, but you can also rent towels there. Make sure to bring 100 yen coins for lockers, and if you have long hair, bring something to tie it back.
No, you must bathe naked in an onsen as this is considered more hygienic. If the thought of this makes you nervous, you could try renting a private onsen.
Make sure to properly wash yourself (except your hair) before entering. Bring your small towel with you if you would like a little modesty, but don’t let it touch the water.
It depends on the place, but the water temperature must be at least 25 degrees to be considered a hot spring. Generally, temperatures are likely to be around 40 degrees, and you can often pour some water over yourself before entering to help you adjust.
Onsens are a longstanding staple of Japanese culture. The hot water, natural minerals, and natural settings allow you to relax your body and mind. Visiting an onsen is great for your health as well as cultural immersion!
