After carving through Niseko’s legendary powder snow, there’s nothing quite like immersing yourself in the healing waters of a Japanese onsen (温泉). These natural hot springs have been cherished for centuries, offering more than just warmth – they’re a gateway to one of Japan’s most treasured cultural experiences.
For first-time visitors, entering an onsen might seem intimidating, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing this quintessential Japanese tradition. The key is understanding a few simple customs that have preserved this peaceful atmosphere for generations.
Onsen Etiquette: The Rules at a Glance
- Identify changing rooms correctly using color codes or kanji labels.
- Wash thoroughly before entering the bath to ensure cleanliness.
- Bring necessary items like a small towel for washing and a larger towel for drying.
- Bathe nude and keep towels out of the water.
- Keep hair out of the water to maintain hygiene.
- Maintain a quiet atmosphere and avoid disruptive behavior.
- Avoid swimming or diving in the baths.
- Dry off properly before leaving the bathing area.
- Rehydrate after bathing to avoid dehydration.
- Be mindful of tattoos, as they may not be permitted in some onsens.
1. Identifying Changing Rooms
- Changing Room Colors: Women’s changing areas are typically marked with red signs or curtains, while men’s areas are indicated in blue. These color-coded markers are usually accompanied by English signage for clarity.
- Kanji Labels: To be absolutely certain, look for the kanji characters: 女 (onna) for women and 男 (otoko) for men. Familiarizing yourself with these symbols can help prevent any confusion.
2. Preparing for Your Visit
- Wash Thoroughly Before Entering: Cleanliness is a fundamental aspect of onsen culture. Before stepping into the communal baths, you’ll need to shower and rinse your body completely. Shower stations equipped with stools, buckets, soap, and shampoo are typically available. Be sure to rinse off all soap thoroughly before entering the water.
- Bring Necessary Items: Carry a small towel for washing and a larger towel for drying. Some onsens offer towel rentals, but bringing your own can be convenient.
3. What to Wear (or Not Wear)
- No Clothing or Swimsuits: Bathing suits are not permitted in traditional onsens. Bathing is done in the nude, and gender-segregated baths provide privacy and comfort.
- Keep Towels Out of the Water: You can place your small towel on your head or set it aside, but it should never touch the water to maintain cleanliness.
- Keep Hair Out of the Water: Tie up long hair or use a hair tie to ensure it stays out of the bathwater.
4. Inside the Onsen
- Maintain a Quiet Atmosphere: Onsens are places for relaxation and reflection. Speak softly and avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
- Enter and Exit Gracefully: Be cautious to avoid splashing water as you get in or out of the bath.
- No Swimming or Diving: The baths are strictly for soaking and unwinding, not for playful activities.
- Safety Notice: Alcohol consumption is prohibited in the onsen and frowned upon. The combination of hot water and alcohol can be dangerous, potentially causing dehydration and dizziness.
5. After the Bath
- Dry Off Properly: Use your large towel to dry off thoroughly before leaving the bathing area to prevent dripping water in common spaces.
- Rehydrate: Soaking in hot water can cause dehydration. Many onsens provide water or tea to help you replenish fluids.
- Relax and Unwind: Take advantage of the rest areas, often equipped with tatami mats, massage chairs or lounging chairs, to extend your sense of tranquility and relaxation.
6. Handling Tattoos
Tattoos can be a sensitive topic in Japan due to their historical association with organized crime. While attitudes are slowly changing, many traditional onsens may still have restrictions. Consider these options if you have tattoos:
- Research in Advance: Look for tattoo-friendly facilities before visiting.
- Use Tattoo Covers: Cover-up stickers are available and can help you comply with onsen rules.
- Opt for Private Onsens: Renting a private bath ensures a worry-free experience if your tattoos might be an issue.
