A Beginner’s Guide to Onsens: Expectations vs. Reality - Onsen Rules

Planning your first trip to a Japanese hot spring? Visiting an onsen is a quintessential Japanese experience, but if you’ve never been, the customs can feel a little mysterious. But don't worry! Onsen etiquette is all about two simple things: cleanliness and respect.

Here is everything you need to know to soak like a local and enjoy every relaxing minute!

Missed part one of our onsen series? Check it out here: https://www.givingtuesday.jp/post/all-about-onsen-japan-s-favorite-relaxing-pastime

Before You Go: Knowing the Onsen Rules

Onsens follow a strict code to keep the environment peaceful and hygienic. Here are a few things to check before you pack your bags:

• The No-Clothing Rule: In Japan, hot springs are shared spaces where cleanliness is the top priority. This includes swimsuits, wraps, and undergarments. 

• A Note on Tattoos: Traditionally, many establishments prohibit guests with tattoos. While things are slowly getting more relaxed at some onsens, it’s best to look up the rules in advance just to be safe. 

• Health & Safety: If you are pregnant or have heart conditions, consult a doctor first. Onsen water is very hot (often above 40°C), which can impact circulation. Limit your soak time to avoid lightheadedness.

• Bring Cash: Many places don't take cards, and you’ll need coins for the lockers. If you booked a hotel with its own onsen, then credit cards are okay.

• The Essentials: Most onsens will give you a locker key (usually on a wristband) and a small washcloth, called a tenugui (手ぬぐい). You’ll usually need to bring or rent a large bath towel, which you leave in your locker while you soak. 

• Stay Hydrated: Avoid drinking alcohol before your soak to prevent overheating. However, do drink plenty of water or tea before and after.

• Leave Jewelry Behind: Certain minerals in the water can tarnish or damage metals. Plus, it’s easy to lose small items in the steam.

• No food or glasses: Avoid bringing food, drinks, or glass items into the bathing area. 

• No photos: Photography is strictly prohibited. If you want a souvenir shot, consider booking a private onsen like a ryokan. 

• Speak quietly: Relax and enjoy the calm experience.

Step 1: The Pre-Soak Scrub

Before entering the bath, guests are expected to wash thoroughly. Shower areas are typically located between the changing room and the baths, with stools, showers, and buckets provided. Use soap and shampoo here, and be sure to rinse off completely before getting in. 

1. Grab a stool: Take a seat on one of the small stools and use the handheld shower or bucket. 

2. Lather up: Wash your body and hair thoroughly with soap and shampoo.

3. The final Rinse: Rinse off completely before heading to the bath. Keeping the spring water pure is the top priority!

Step 2: The First Soak 

Once you’re clean, you can step into the hot spring. Remember that small towel? It should never touch the water. Tie up long hair and avoid submerging your head. Then, place the towel beside the bath or fold it and balance it on top of your head, which is a common sight in many onsens.

1. Enter Gradually: The water is hot! Slide in slowly to let your body adjust to the temperature. Use the small basins around you to splash some water on your body first, then slowly step in starting from your feet. 

2. Head to the sauna: After your soak, feel free to try the sauna. You can go back and forth between the two. Just remember to ease yourself back into the hot water each time. 

3. Rinse Between Baths: If you plan on trying multiple baths, it’s best to take a quick rinse in between to remove any minerals (acidic and sulphuric) left on your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. If not, you can just pat yourself dry with your small towel. 

Step 3: Post-Bath Care

Once you’re finished, take a quick rinse if you have sensitive skin, or simply pat yourself dry. Before heading back into the locker or dressing room, make sure to wipe off any excess water with your towel.

Depending on where you go, some onsens have lounge areas where you can relax after your bath. You might find massage chairs, TVs, manga to read, and even restaurants or little shops. It’s the perfect way to wind down before heading home!

Where to Experience the Magic

You can find these hot springs all over Japan, but here are the two main ways to enjoy them:

• Ryokans: Staying at a traditional Japanese inn is the gold standard. You can relax at your leisure, and some even come with private open-air baths attached to your room!

• Sentos: These are public bathhouses found in cities. They are perfect for a quick soak without an overnight stay. If you're visiting an "onsen town," look for special passes that let you try several different public baths in one day!

Ready to soak? Just remember to wash well, stay quiet, and keep that towel on your head. Enjoy your first dip!

Picture Sources:

1. https://niseko-grand.com/niseko-grand_wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/onsen_s_og.jpg

2. https://hokkaido.a4jp.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/hokkaido-onsens-that-allow-tattoos-hot-springs.jpg

3. https://en.matsuyama-sightseeing.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/column_howto_wash.jpg

4. https://www.agoda.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Kyoto-onsen-A-girl-relaxing-in-onsen.jpg

5. https://travel.rakuten.com/contents/sites/contents/files/styles/max_1300x1300/public/2024-08/dogo-onsen-guide_5.jpg?itok=u35hv5iu

6. https://www.datocms-assets.com/101439/1703416223-japanese-hot-springs.jpg?auto=format&fit=max&w=1200

Sources:

1. https://www.japan-experience.com/plan-your-trip/to-know/understanding-japan/understanding-onsen-culture

2. https://www.japan.travel/en/ph/story/onsen-etiquette/

3. https://wwwtb.mlit.go.jp/hokkaido/content/000232535.pdf

4. https://www.kashiwaya.org/e/magazine/onsen/rules2.html

5. https://hakone-japan.com/things-to-do/onsen/how-to-enjoy-onsen/how-to-onsen-in-japan/

6. https://kumamoto-guide.jp/en/tips/manner.html

7. https://www.env.go.jp/content/900492871.pdf