Onsen, Hot Springs, and Public Bath Manners in Japan
Introduction: The Joy of Taking a Bath in an Onsen After a Hike
After a long hike through Japan’s stunning mountains, there is nothing more rewarding than taking bath in an onsen (温泉, hot spring). The warm, mineral-rich waters ease sore muscles and provide deep relaxation. In Japan, public bathing is a long-standing tradition, and visiting an onsen is not just about getting clean—it’s about experiencing calm, nature, and harmony.
However, for first-time visitors, the rules and customs of Japanese hot springs might feel unfamiliar. Here’s a guide to help you enjoy your onsen experience with confidence!
1. Types of Japanese Baths
In Japan, public baths come in many forms. Some use natural hot spring water, some don’t—but all offer a relaxing experience. Here’s a simple guide:
🔹 Onsen (温泉)
A bath that uses natural hot spring water with minerals. Because Japan has many earthquakes and volcanoes, onsen can be found almost everywhere—especially in mountain regions, but also in cities and seaside towns.
🔹 Sento (銭湯)
A traditional public bath using heated tap water. Originally for homes without a bath. Usually located in neighborhoods. Very cheap and nostalgic.
🔹 Super Sento (スーパー銭湯)
A modern-style bath facility. Often large, with many types of baths, saunas, food areas, and rest zones. Some use real onsen water, others use regular hot water.
🔹 Rotenburo (露天風呂)
An open-air bath. It can be part of any type above—onsen, sento, or hotel bath. Not all rotenburo are true hot springs, but the outdoor atmosphere is amazing, especially after hiking.
Tip: Look for signs like 「源泉かけ流し」 (gensen kakenagashi) which means “natural spring water flowing directly into the bath.” It’s a good sign of a real onsen!
2. Onsen Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
Before Entering the Bath
✔️ Wash Your Body First – In Japan, you must clean yourself before entering the bath. Most onsen have showers with stools, soap, and shampoo. Scrub thoroughly!
✔️ Remove Your Clothes Completely – No swimsuits are allowed in traditional onsen. Use the changing area to undress completely.
✔️ Bring a Small Towel – You can use it for washing and covering yourself while walking to the bath. A small towel, called a tenugui (手拭い), is the most suitable choice.
✔️ Tie Up Long Hair – If you have long hair, keep it out of the water by tying it up.
Inside the Bath
❌ Do Not Soak Your Towel – Keep your small towel out of the water. Many people fold it and place it on their heads.
❌ No Soap or Shampoo in the Bath – The bathing area is for rinsing only. The bath is for soaking and relaxing.
❌ Do Not Swim or Splash – Onsen are for quiet relaxation, not for playing. Especially if you're with children, please make sure they don't disturb others around you.
❌ No Photos – Respect privacy. Photography is usually not allowed.
After the Bath
✔️ Wipe Off Excess Water Before Returning to the Changing Area – Use your towel to dry off slightly before stepping out.
✔️ Hydrate – After taking bath, drink some water to avoid dehydration.
✔️ Relax in the Lounge – Many onsen have a resting area where you can enjoy drink or even beer and snacks. After a bath, drinking a cold bottle of milk or a glass of beer is a small but very satisfying moment for many people!
3. Tattoos in Onsen: What You Need to Know
Many traditional onsen do not allow tattoos because of historical associations with the yakuza (Japanese mafia). However, some onsen are becoming more foreigner-friendly. Here’s what you can do:
- Check if the onsen allows tattoos.
- Use waterproof tattoo cover stickers.
- Look for private onsen (貸切風呂, kashikiri-buro) where you can bathe alone or with family.
Conclusion: Enjoy Onsen Like a Local
Taking a bath in a public place while being completely naked might feel strange if you are from another country. But don’t think too much about it—really, no one is looking at others! Everyone is just relaxing. Once you step in, you’ll understand how natural and comfortable it feels.
Experiencing an onsen after hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy Japan’s nature and culture. By following the proper etiquette, you can fully relax and appreciate this wonderful tradition.