Onsen Etiquette
Onsen (温泉, hot springs) are Japan's most important bathing culture — and have strict rules that tourists must know. The basic rule: Everyone is naked. Swimwear is prohibited in traditional onsen.
The Process
- Changing room: Remove all clothing, place in a locker. You receive a small towel (tenugui) — this is for washing, NOT for covering in the water.
- Washing station: Thoroughly shower before bathing (sit-down shower, shampoo, soap). This is mandatory — no one enters the communal bath unwashed.
- Bathing: Slowly slide into the hot water (38–44 °C). Place the small towel on your head or at the edge of the bath — DO NOT dip it in the water!
- Enjoy quietly: Be quiet, do not swim, do not dive, do not splash. Onsen is meditation, not a swimming pool.
Tattoo Problem
Many traditional onsen prohibit tattoos — due to the association with Yakuza (Japanese mafia). Options for tattooed travelers:
- Tattoo cover patches: Available in drugstores, allow access to some onsen
- Private onsen (Kashikiri): Private bath for 1–2 people, from ¥1,000–3,000/hour
- Tattoo-friendly onsen: Growing number, especially in tourist areas — research online (tattoo-friendly.jp)
- Ryokan with private bath: Room with its own rotenburo (outdoor bath)
💡 Tipp
Onsen bathing is one of the best experiences in Japan — even if the nudity is initially unfamiliar. After 5 minutes, you completely forget about it. Try a rotenburo (outdoor onsen) in snow or autumn foliage — the feeling of sitting in hot water while cold air blows over your face is indescribable.
