The complete guide to manners about japanese spa

Are you planning to visit a hot spring while touring Japan?

Japanese hot springs have their own unique set of rules.

Read this article and master the rules of Japanese hot springs!

Cautions for Onsen in Japan

Bathing in Japanese Onsen is prohibited for people with tattoos.

Please note that regardless of the size of your tattoo, you are not allowed to enter.

Men’s bath,Woman’s bath

This illustration is called ‘noren’, a traditional Japanese curtain often seen at the entrance of establishments.

Japanese hot springs have separate baths for men and women.

Men should proceed to the area marked ‘男’ (otoko) and women should proceed to the area marked ‘女’ (onna).”

Etiquette in the changing room

Taking photos or videos in the changing room is prohibited.

First, find an available locker and deposit your belongings and valuables in it.

It’s prohibited to bring items such as smartphones, money, and large bath towels into the bathing area.

Generally, in Japanese hot springs, bathing is done naked.

Wearing swimsuits to enter the hot springs is not allowed in most public baths and hot spring facilities.

Many hot spring facilities provide shampoo, conditioner, and body soap, so there’s no need to bring your own.

However, it’s recommended to bring one hand towel with you to the bathing area.

You can use the hand towel to dry your wet body when you return to the changing room from the bath.

Some facilities offer towel rentals, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand if you need to bring your own.

Etiquette in the Bathing Area

• Wash your body before getting into the hot spring.
• Do not talk loudly.
• Do not jump into the bathtub.
• Do not dive or swim in the hot spring.
• Do not soak your hair or towel in the water.

Wash your body before getting into the hot spring.

It is not hygienic to get into the water without washing your body first.

Therefore, the first thing you should do when entering the bathing area is to wash your body.

Do not talk loudly.

Japanese people come to the hot spring seeking relaxation, so please be quiet in the bathing area.

Do not jump into the the hot spring.

It is considered good manners to enter the hot spring slowly without splashing water.

Do not dive or swim in the hot spring.

The hot spring is not a swimming pool, so please refrain from diving or swimming.

Do not soak your hair or towel in the water.

This can cause the water to become dirty, so if you have long hair, tie it up behind your head.

Also, do not let your towel touch the water, but instead place it on top of your head like in this illustration.