Onsen, Japan’s natural hot springs, are among the most unforgettable cultural experiences you can have during your trip. But to truly enjoy them stress-free, it’s essential to understand the etiquette and rules that come with the territory. Here's a practical guide to Japanese bath culture, so you can avoid any faux pas and soak up the experience to the fullest.
What is an onsen and how do you visit one in Japan?
What is an onsen?
An onsen (温泉) is a bath fed by a natural hot spring, usually volcanic, and rich in minerals that benefit the skin, blood circulation, and muscle relaxation. For a spring to be officially recognized as an onsen in Japan, its water must naturally emerge at 25°C or higher and contain a specified concentration of certain minerals, as defined by Japanese law.
Onsen can be found in traditional inns (ryôkan), modern hotels, or dedicated facilities. You’ll find them in the mountains, by the sea, in cities, or tucked away in hidden valleys. Some are indoors; others are open-air and surrounded by nature, these are called rotenburo (露天風呂).
What’s the difference between an onsen and a sentô?
A sentô (銭湯) is a public bath heated with regular water. It’s a more accessible, everyday option, especially in urban areas, and often serves as a communal bathhouse in older neighborhoods.
The key difference is the water: onsen water is natural and mineral-rich, while sentô uses regular, treated water. However, the bathing etiquette, nudity requirements, and overall procedure are the same for both.
Why do Japanese people love hot baths?
Bathing has been deeply ingrained in Japanese culture for centuries. As far back as the Heian period (794–1185), nobles and samurai visited hot springs for their healing properties. Over time, onsen evolved into places of relaxation, socializing, and purification for both body and mind.
Today, visiting an onsen is a common ritual, whether solo, with family, or even with coworkers. It’s a moment to pause and reset in a fast-paced world.
When’s the best time to visit an onsen?
The best times to enjoy an onsen include:
- Evening: the perfect way to relax before bed
- Winter: the hot water feels even more magical in the cold
- Low tourist season: for a quieter, more serene experience
Each setting offers something special: early-morning solitude, or a starry night sky above a steaming outdoor bath, both are unforgettable.
What should you bring to an onsen?
What to wear: yukata, towels and slippers
If you’re staying at a ryôkan or hotel with a bathhouse, you’ll typically be given a yukata (light cotton kimono) and slippers: this is the go-to outfit for heading to the bath. You’ll also have:
- A large towel for drying off afterward
- A small towel to bring with you to the bath and use modestly while outside the water
At public onsen, you can rent or purchase these items if needed. If you have long hair, bring a tie to keep it out of the water.
Do you need to bring your own soap and shampoo?
Most onsen provide free shampoo, soap, and sometimes conditioner. If you have sensitive skin, feel free to bring your own.
Bathing thoroughly is not only allowed, it’s mandatory. Hygiene is key in onsen culture.
What if you have tattoos?
Tattoos are still a sensitive topic in Japan, due to their historical association with the yakuza. Many onsen prohibit visible tattoos.
But don’t worry, there are workarounds:
- Cover small tattoos with waterproof bandages
- Look for "tattoo-friendly" onsen (increasingly common in tourist areas)
- Book a private bath so you can soak in peace
Always check ahead or ask at the front desk.
Can you go if you’re shy or with a partner?
This is often a letdown for couples: most onsen are gender-segregated.
That said, you do have options:
- Private baths (called kashikiri or kazoku): bookable by the hour, sometimes included with certain rooms
- Rooms with private onsen baths (rotenburo-tsuki): ideal for privacy and couples
How to you use an onsen?
At the entrance: shoes, lockers, first Steps
Upon arrival, remove your shoes and place them in a designated locker. If your shoes are wet, plastic bags are often provided to keep the locker clean.
You’ll then pay the entrance fee or scan a pass if the facility is modern.
Changing rooms: gender separation
Baths are almost always single-sex. Look for the curtains:
- Red / 女 (onna) - Women
- Blue / 男 (otoko) - Men
Inside the changing area, undress completely. Leave your clothes and large towel in a basket or locker. Only bring the small towel into the bath area.
The mandatory shower
Before entering the bath, you must wash yourself thoroughly. You’ll find Japanese-style showers with stools and mirrors along the wall.
Sit down, use the provided soap and shampoo, scrub yourself well, and rinse completely. This ritual shows respect for others and keeps the water clean.
Time to soak: bathing rules and how long to stay
Onsen water is usually between 37°C to 45°C (98°F and 113°F). If you're new to it, dip your legs first and ease in slowly.
Important rules to follow:
- Never dip your towel into the water - place it on your head or on the side of the bath
- No swimming, splashing, or loud talking
- Don’t submerge your head
- Soak for about 10–15 minutes per session, then step out, rest, and repeat if you like.
If it’s your first time, start with just 5 minutes to avoid dizziness.
After the bath: dry off, hydrate and relax
Once you're done, you can choose whether or not to rinse off again, some people skip rinsing to let the minerals continue working on the skin.
Dry off with your large towel, get dressed slowly, and enjoy the after-bath calm. Many locals love a cold bottle of coffee milk post-soak, a simple but cherished ritual.
Onsen etiquette: rules and mistakes to avoid
The big no-no’s: tattoos, towels in the water, photos
Here’s what not to do:
- Expose visible tattoos (unless the facility allows it)
- Put your towel in the water
- Take photos or videos, strictly forbidden to protect privacy
- Eat, drink, or smoke in the bathing area
- Act disruptively: quiet, hygiene, and respect are expected
Keep it quiet and respectful
Onsen are peaceful places meant for relaxation. That means:
- Speak quietly
- Give others space
- Sit calmly and be mindful of your posture
- Children are welcome but must follow the same rules under their parents' supervision.
Should you rinse after bathing?
Onsen water is rich in therapeutic minerals. Skipping the post-bath rinse allows your skin to absorb the benefits longer.
However, it's a personal choice, people with sensitive skin may prefer to rinse.
Common Tourist Mistakes
These are typical missteps that visitors make:
- Entering the bath without washing
- Swimming or diving in the water
- Talking too loudly with friends
- Rinsing off without first using soap
- Sneaking in a photo
While Japanese bathers are usually forgiving, following these rules will help you blend in gracefully.
The most beautiful onsen to discover in Japan
Arima Onsen (Hyôgo)
Just outside Kôbe, Arima is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns. It features two famous types of water: kinsen (golden and iron-rich) and ginsen (clear and fizzy), both with unique health benefits. The historic village charm adds to its appeal.
Dôgo Onsen (Shikoku)
Located in Matsuyama, Dôgo Onsen is among the most iconic. Its majestic main building is said to have inspired the film Spirited Away. With ties to the imperial family, it’s steeped in history, architecture, and tradition.
Zaô Onsen (Yamagata)
Tucked in the mountains, Zaô is known for its highly acidic water, great for the skin. In winter, the outdoor baths offer a surreal view of "snow monsters"—frost-covered trees that form eerie, natural sculptures.
