Bathing in Japan’s natural hot springs (onsen) is one of the country’s greatest pleasures — and one of the experiences most travelers to Japan put at the top of their wish lists. First-timers often worry about getting the rules wrong. The etiquette is not complicated once you know it, and following it correctly ensures a relaxing experience for everyone.
Before You Enter the Bathing Area
Remove shoes at the entrance and change into the facility’s provided slippers. In the changing room (datsui-jo), undress completely — swimwear is not worn in traditional onsen. Place your clothes and belongings in the locker or basket provided. Bring your small towel (tenugui or the thin towel provided by the facility) with you into the bathing area; leave your large bath towel in the changing room.
If you have long hair, tie it up before entering the bath — hair touching the water is considered unhygienic. This applies to both genders in communal baths.
The Washing Station (Kake-yu)
Before entering any onsen bath, you must wash thoroughly at the individual shower stations along the edge of the bathing room. This is the most important rule — the communal bath is for soaking, not for washing. Sit on the small stool provided, use the soap and shampoo at the station, wash your entire body, and rinse completely. Only then enter the bath.
When finished at the shower station, rinse the stool and floor area as a courtesy for the next user. Fill the small wooden bucket (oke) and pour it over yourself as a final rinse before approaching the bath.
In the Bath
Enter the bath slowly — onsen temperatures typically range from 38°C to 44°C (100–111°F), and sudden full immersion can be shocking. Most bathers ease in gradually. Keep your small towel out of the water; fold it and place it on your head or on the edge of the bath.
Quiet and calm are the standard atmosphere in onsen. Large groups of friends laughing loudly, splashing, or swimming are inappropriate. Phones and cameras are strictly prohibited in bathing areas — this is a firm rule at all facilities.
Outdoor baths (rotenburo) often have beautiful natural views. Take time to appreciate them; the experience is as much contemplative as physical. In winter, onsen in the mountains — especially those photographed with snow falling into the outdoor bath — are among the most serene experiences Japan offers.
Tattoo Policies
Many traditional onsen prohibit tattoos due to historical associations with organized crime. This policy is changing slowly, but it remains in force at many facilities in rural areas and traditional ryokan. Before visiting, check the facility’s policy. Some onsen offer private bath rooms (kashikiri buro) that can be rented by the hour and do not enforce the tattoo prohibition. Urban sento (public bathhouses, as opposed to natural hot spring onsen) are generally more flexible.
After Bathing
Dry yourself thoroughly with your small towel before re-entering the changing room — walking through the changing room dripping is considered inconsiderate. Return any locker keys, towels, or equipment provided. Many onsen facilities offer a rest area where you can drink cold water or tea, eat light snacks, and allow your body to cool gradually after the hot water — this is an important part of the onsen experience, not just the bathing itself.