Japanese onsen etiquette is the set of bathing rules followed in the shared hot spring baths (onsen) found across Japan. Bathers wash at the shower stations before entering, bathe without swimwear, and keep towels and long hair out of the water. Japan’s Ministry of the Environment advises wiping dry after bathing without rinsing off the spring minerals unless the skin is sensitive, and some onsens restrict tattoos.
| Legal definition of onsen | Water, steam or gas from the ground, 25°C or more at the source or with listed substances |
|---|---|
| Before entering the bath | Wash with soap at a shower station, rinse off, then pour hot water over the body (kakeyu) |
| Swimwear | Not normally worn. Clothing, swimwear included, stays in the changing area |
| Towels and long hair | Kept out of the water. The small towel goes on the head or the side of the bath |
| Time per soak | 3 to 10 minutes at first, up to 15 to 20 once accustomed (Ministry of the Environment) |
| After bathing | Wipe dry without rinsing unless skin is sensitive (Ministry of the Environment advice) |
Checked in October 2026 against env.go.jp, japan.travel.
Japan’s onsen culture is a cherished part of its heritage, offering both relaxation and a deep connection to nature.
Here’s a detailed guide on what you should and shouldn’t do when visiting a Japanese onsen.
Essential Preparations for Onsen (Public bath)
Wash Thoroughly Before Entering the Onsen
Before you enter the communal bath, make sure to wash and rinse your body. You can do this at the shower stations, where you’ll find soap, shampoo, and often a stool to sit on.
Cleaning yourself ensures that the onsen remains hygienic for everyone. (At the very least, take a brief shower to rinse off the dirt.)
Tie Up Long Hair
If you have long hair, make sure to tie it up to keep it out of the onsen water. This helps maintain the cleanliness of the water and is a sign of respect for other bathers.
Cover Tattoos If Required
In Japan, tattoos are not widely embraced culturally and have traditionally been associated with the yakuza, organized crime groups. As a result, some onsens may have restrictions. If you have tattoos, check in advance whether they need to be covered or if the onsen is tattoo-friendly.
HOWEVER, there’s an easier way to enjoy Japanese bathing culture even with tattoos: “Sento“.
What is “Sento”?
Stephanie Crohin IG@_stephaniemelanie_“Sento” is a traditional Japanese public bathhouse where locals go to bathe and unwind. Unlike Onsen, which use natural hot spring water, Sento use regular heated water (some Sento places do use Onsen water but those places are rare). Throughout Japan, Sento offer an affordable way to experience Japanese bathing culture, typically for just a few hundred yen.
When you pay and enter, you’ll immediately find the changing room. The etiquette, aside from tattoos, is the same as in an Onsen.
Onsen Etiquette
Respect the Quiet Atmosphere
Onsens are places of relaxation and peace. While normal conversation is generally fine, it’s important to avoid speaking or laughing loudly. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and respect the tranquility of the space.
Keep Your Towel Out of the Water
The small towel provided should be used for modesty and drying off, but it should never be brought into the onsen water. Instead, place it on the side of the bath or on your head while soaking.
Do Not Bring Soap or Shampoo Into the Onsen
After washing, ensure that all soap and shampoo are rinsed off before entering the onsen. Don’t bring these products into the onsen water, as they can contaminate the bath.
Health and Safety
Stay Hydrated
Soaking in hot water can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to drink water before and after your bath. Many onsens provide water or tea in rest areas, so take advantage of these to stay hydrated.
Limit Your Time in the Onsen
While the hot water is relaxing, staying in for too long can cause dizziness or fainting. It’s advisable to soak for about 3 to 10 minutes at first (up to 15 to 20 minutes once you’re used to it), then take a break. You can return to the onsen after resting if you wish.
Avoid Bathing After Drinking Alcohol
It’s important to avoid entering the onsen after drinking alcohol, especially if you’ve had too much. Soaking in hot water after drinking can lead to dangerous drops in blood pressure or cause dizziness, so it’s best to wait until you’re sober before enjoying the bath.
Behavior to Avoid
Do Not Swim or Play in the Onsen
Onsens are for soaking and relaxation, not for swimming or playing. Avoid splashing water or engaging in any activities that could disturb others.
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Do Not Take Photos Inside the Onsen
Photography is generally prohibited in onsen areas to protect the privacy of other bathers. Focus on enjoying the experience without the distraction of cameras or phones.
Do Not Enter the Onsen if You Are Unwell
If you’re feeling sick or have open wounds, it’s best to avoid the onsen to prevent the spread of illness and maintain the cleanliness of the water.
Do Not Smoke in the Onsen Area
Smoking is generally prohibited in onsen facilities, including the changing rooms. Most onsens have designated smoking areas, so be sure to use those if needed.
Do Not Bring Large Amounts of Cash
Some onsens do not have lockers in the changing rooms, so it’s advisable to avoid bringing large amounts of cash or valuables. While theft is rare (I’ve visited many onsens and never had anything stolen), it’s always best to exercise caution.
Summary
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll ensure a respectful and enjoyable onsen experience for yourself and others. While the rules of Japanese onsen may seem daunting at first, each one is straightforward and easy to follow.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced onsen-goer, understanding these simple rules will help you fully appreciate this unique aspect of Japanese culture. So relax, and enjoy the culture that only a Japanese onsen can offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you shower after an onsen?
Showering after an onsen is optional. The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) calls rinsing a personal preference. Japan’s Ministry of the Environment says it is preferable not to rinse the spring minerals off and to wipe the skin dry with a towel. The ministry adds that rinsing is better for people with sensitive skin, for example after acidic or sulfur springs. Washing with soap comes before the bath.
Do you wear a swimsuit in a Japanese onsen?
Swimsuits are not normally worn in a Japanese onsen. Onsen bathing is typically done nude, and all clothing, swimwear included, is left in the changing area, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). The Japan Tourism Agency also asks ryokan guests not to wear a swimsuit or any other clothing into the communal bath. A small towel can be used for modesty on the walk to the bath.
Are onsen baths separated by gender?
Most onsen baths in Japan are separated by gender. Changing rooms are always gender specific, and so are the vast majority of the baths, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). Bathers who feel shy can use a private bath (kashikiriburo) or book a room with its own open-air bath (rotenburo).
What is kakeyu at an onsen?
Kakeyu is the custom of pouring hot water over the body before stepping into an onsen bath. The rinse lets the body adjust to the water temperature and guards against a sudden rise in blood pressure, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). Japan’s Ministry of the Environment advises starting from the hands and feet. Many baths keep a basin near the entrance for kakeyu.
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