Japanese onsens are a wonderful experience, but there are many etiquettes that might confuse you if you're not aware. "Why can't I wear a swimsuit?" "Where should I place my towel?" "What should I do before bathing?"
Onsen etiquette is not just about rules. It reflects Japan's culture of cleanliness, consideration in public spaces, and respect for nature. In this article, we will thoroughly explain the 10 basic onsen etiquettes that foreigners should know and their cultural backgrounds.
By understanding and practicing these etiquettes, you can deeply appreciate Japanese onsen culture and be respected by other bathers.
Rule 1: Always Wash Your Body Before Bathing (Most Important!)
Rule
Before entering the bath, make sure to wash your entire body with soap. Just rinsing with water (kakeyu) is not enough.
Procedure
- Undress in the changing room
- Enter the bathroom
- Sit down and wash your body with soap
- Wash your hair with shampoo
- Rinse off all the soap thoroughly
- Then enter the bath
Why is this rule in place?
For hygiene reasons The onsen bath is a public space shared by many people. Washing off sweat, dirt, and body oils before entering helps keep the bath clean.
Japanese cleanliness culture Japanese people place a high value on cleanliness in public spaces. Washing your body before entering is considered a given as a consideration for others.
Protection of onsen water quality It is important not to bring dirt into the onsen to maintain the components and benefits of the onsen.
Points to Note
- There are no facilities where "just rinsing with water is OK"
- Always wash with soap
- Sit while washing to avoid splashing water or soap on others
Rule 2: Do Not Put Towels in the Bath
Rule
Do not put small towels or large bath towels in the bath under any circumstances.
Proper Use of Towels
Small Towels (Tenugui)
- Use when washing your body
- When entering the bath, place it on your head or leave it at the side of the bath
- It's OK to use it to cover your body while moving
Large Bath Towels
- Leave them in the changing room
- Do not bring them into the bathroom
Why is this rule in place?
For hygiene reasons Towels can carry soap residue, body dirt, and fibers. If these dissolve in the bath, it will deteriorate the water quality.
Consideration for others Putting towels in a shared bath can make others uncomfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I'm embarrassed and want to cover myself with a towel. A: It's OK to cover yourself with a towel while moving. But just before entering the bath, place the towel at the side or on your head.
Q: Why place it on the head? A: It's a traditional Japanese style. Also, it prevents the towel from getting wet.
Rule 3: Tie Up or Gather Your Hair
Rule
Long hair should be tied up or clipped. Having hair float in the bath is absolutely unacceptable.
Method
- Make a bun
- Create a ponytail
- Use a hair clip
- Wrap with a towel
Why is this rule in place?
For hygiene reasons Floating hair in the bath is considered one of the most unhygienic actions. Hair can carry dirt, oils, and shampoo residue.
Consideration for others No one wants to enter a bath with someone else's hair floating in it.
If You Forget a Hair Tie
Many facilities sell or provide hair ties for free at the entrance of the changing room or bathroom.
Rule 4: Bathe Quietly (Do Not Speak Loudly)
Rule
In the bathroom, stay calm and quiet. Avoid loud conversations, laughter, or noisy behavior.
Appropriate Behavior
- Speak softly (only when necessary)
- Walk quietly
- Enter the bath quietly (do not jump in)
- Maintain a meditative atmosphere
Why is this rule in place?
A place for relaxation Onsens are places for relaxing both body and mind. Maintaining a quiet environment allows everyone to deeply relax.
Japanese public manners In Japan, it is considered inappropriate to speak loudly in public spaces. This applies to trains, libraries, and onsens alike.
Meditative culture Japanese onsen culture has a meditative aspect. It values time spent reflecting on oneself in silence.
Exceptions
In family baths or private baths, a more relaxed atmosphere is acceptable.
Rule 5: Wearing Swimsuits is Generally Not Allowed
Rule
In most onsens and public baths, you bathe naked. Wearing swimsuits is prohibited.
Why are swimsuits not allowed?
Onsen components and water quality Swimsuit fibers can absorb onsen components, and chemicals from the fibers can dissolve, altering the water quality.
Japanese bathing culture In Japan, there is a long-standing culture of "naked companionship." Onsens have been places where people become equal, regardless of social status or appearance.
For hygiene reasons Swimsuits may carry dirt from outside.
Exception: Mixed-Gender Onsens
In some mixed-gender onsens, women can wear a special garment called "yuamigi." This is a special fabric made for onsen use.
Exception: Onsen Pools
Some facilities have onsen pools where swimsuits are required. This is a separate area from the bathing facility.
Rule 6: Check Tattoo Policies in Advance
Rule
If you have tattoos, check the facility's policy in advance. Many onsens prohibit tattoos.
Why are tattoos prohibited?
Historically in Japan, tattoos have been associated with anti-social groups (yakuza). Therefore, many onsen facilities prohibit tattoos to ensure the comfort and safety of other bathers.
Options if You Have Tattoos
- Find a tattoo-friendly facility: Some facilities allow tattoos for foreign tourists
- Use a private bath: Family baths are not a problem
- Cover with tattoo seals: Small tattoos can be concealed
- Use public baths: Many public baths are more lenient with tattoos
For more details, see the separate article "Japanese Onsens and Tattoos: Cultural Background and Bathing Methods."
Rule 7: Absolutely No Photography
Rule
Photography in the bathroom or changing room is strictly prohibited. Avoid bringing smartphones as well.
Why is it prohibited?
Privacy protection No one wants to be photographed in the nude. This could also be considered a criminal act.
A place of trust Onsens are safe spaces where privacy is protected. To maintain this trust, photography is strictly forbidden.
If You Want to Take Commemorative Photos
- Take photos of the facility's exterior
- Take photos in front of the changing room (while dressed)
- In private baths, it may be possible to take photos with staff approval
Rule 8: Avoid Bathing After Drinking Alcohol
Rule
Do not enter the onsen after drinking alcohol. Bathing while intoxicated is especially dangerous.
Why is it dangerous?
Health risks
- Both alcohol and onsen expand blood vessels
- Blood pressure can drop suddenly
- Risk of dizziness and fainting
- Danger of drowning
Strain on the heart Alcohol and hot water place a significant strain on the heart.
Correct Order
- Enter the onsen
- Take a break
- Rehydrate
- Then enjoy a beer
"A beer after the onsen" is the best, but "an onsen after a beer" is dangerous.
Rule 9: Do Not Bring Food into the Bathroom
Rule
Do not bring food or drinks (other than water) into the bathroom.
Why is it prohibited?
For hygiene reasons Food crumbs or drinks entering the bath can deteriorate the water quality.
Attracts insects The smell of food can attract insects.
Exceptions
- Water or sports drinks (to prevent dehydration) can be placed at the side of the bathroom
- However, do not place them near the bath
Rule 10: Return Items to Their Original Place
Rule
Clean and return used chairs, buckets, and showers to their original place.
Specifically
After using the washing area
- Wash and return the chair
- Stack and return the bucket
- Return the showerhead to its place
- Pick up hair (from the drain)
Before leaving the bathroom
- Take used towels to the changing room
- Check for forgotten items
Why is this rule in place?
Consideration for the next person By cleaning up after yourself, the next person can use the space comfortably.
Japanese "Omotenashi" culture In Japan, there is a spirit of "leaving it more beautiful than when you came." It's a culture of valuing public spaces.
Other Important Etiquettes
Wipe Your Body Before Returning to the Changing Room
Before leaving the bathroom, lightly wipe off the moisture from your body. This is to prevent the changing room from getting wet.
Avoid Long Baths
Especially during busy times, be considerate not to monopolize the bath for a long time. Ideally, step out after 5-10 minutes, take a break, and then re-enter.
Follow the Order
When the washing area is crowded, wait your turn.
Supervise Children
If you are with small children, supervise them closely. Ensure they do not make noise, run, or disturb others.
The Significance of Following Etiquette
These etiquettes are not just "rules." They are:
- Respect for others: Consideration for everyone using the shared space
- Cleanliness culture: Maintaining Japan's high hygiene standards
- Respect for nature: Gratitude for the natural gift of onsens
- Preservation of tradition: Protecting a centuries-old onsen culture
By following etiquette, you show respect and understanding of Japanese culture. You will also be warmly welcomed by other bathers.
What if You Violate Etiquette?
If you unknowingly violate etiquette, don't worry.
- Correct it as soon as you notice
- Apologize by saying "Sumimasen"
- Be careful next time
Many Japanese people welcome foreigners who are trying to learn about onsen culture. Perfection is not necessary. The attitude of learning is important.
Conclusion: Etiquette is Respect for Culture
Learning onsen etiquette is the first step to deeply understanding Japanese culture. These rules reflect Japanese values—cleanliness, consideration for others, and respect for nature.
By following etiquette, your onsen experience will be deeper and more meaningful. You can become a part of Japan's onsen culture.
Etiquette is respect for culture. And when approached with respect, the onsen will provide you with the ultimate relaxation.
