Guide to Onsen & Hot Spring Etiquette in Japan

Soaking in an onsen is one of the most restorative experiences you can have in Japan. In these natural hot springs, the mineral-rich waters ease you into a deep sense of calm.

But before you can immerse yourself in this ritual, it’s essential to learn onsen etiquette in Japan. Onsens are steeped in tradition, and observing rules shows respect for this practice. It also makes the experience enjoyable for everyone sharing the bath.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Japanese hot springs etiquette.

An onsen (温泉) is a natural hot spring bath. Its water comes from the earth and typically holds a temperature of 25°C. The water also contains natural minerals. These minerals, combined with the warm water, are said to offer benefits for both body and mind.

The water in onsens can range from comfortably warm to almost hot, usually between 38°C and 42°C. The mineral content varies depending on the spring. Some minerals are said to soften the skin, while others are thought to ease fatigue.

Onsens have been part of Japanese life for centuries. Many of the earliest hot springs were found near volcanic mountains and temples. Monks and pilgrims visited them for purification and healing. During the Edo period, samurai and nobility used onsens to rest and recover from travel or battle. As towns grew around these hot springs, they became communal baths for the locals. Ryokan inns were subsequently built to welcome travellers who came to soak in the waters.

Today, you may find different types of baths within an onsen resort. These include:

• Ashiyu – Foot baths
• Doroyu – Mud baths
• Kashikiriburo/Kazokuburo – Private or family baths
• Konyoku – Mixed-gender baths
• Mushiburo – Steam baths
• Rotemburo – Outdoor baths
• Sunaburo – Sand baths
• Takiyu/Utaseyu – Waterfall or beating baths
• Uchiburo – Indoor baths

Understanding basic Japanese hot springs rules helps you enjoy the bath while respecting local customs. These guidelines also keep the experience enjoyable for others sharing the bath with you.

Do’s:

• Undress Completely – Onsens are traditionally enjoyed without clothing. Swimwear is not allowed, as the tradition is to soak in the water free of fabric. Most facilities provide baskets or lockers to store your clothes before you enter.
• Shower Before Entering – Always wash and rinse your body at the provided stations before stepping into the bath. This keeps the shared water clean for all bathers.
• Observe Silence – Onsens are spaces for relaxation. Keep conversation low and enjoy the quiet atmosphere that makes the experience so restorative.
• Tie Up Long Hair – If you have long hair, tie it up to keep it out of the water. This helps maintain the cleanliness of the bath.
• Use the Small Towel Properly – Most onsens provide a modesty towel. Use it to cover yourself while moving between areas, but keep it out of the water.
• Hydrate Before and After – The heat can dehydrate you quickly. Drink water before entering and again once you’re finished soaking.
• Cover Tattoos – If you have visible tattoos, cover them with a waterproof patch or bandage if the onsen requires it. This follows traditional etiquette and helps keep the bath a neutral space for all guests.

Don’ts:

• Jump or Splash – Enter the bath gently. Sudden movements disturb the still water and can disrupt other bathers who are trying to relax.
• Bring Your Phone – Leave cameras and phones outside the bathing area. Privacy is highly valued, and electronics don’t belong near the water.
• Use Soap – Never use soap, shampoo, or bath products in the main pool. Washing is done before entering, and the onsen water should stay pure.
• Stay Too Long – Prolonged soaking can make you lightheaded due to the heat. Take breaks and step out if you start to feel dizzy.
• Submerge Your Head – Keep your head and hair above the water. This is a hygiene practice to keep the bath clean for everyone.
• Enter the Wrong Bath – Most onsens separate baths by gender unless clearly marked as mixed. Always check signs and be aware of the facility’s rules.
• Eat or Drink in the Bath – Food and drinks are not allowed in the water. Save refreshments for the rest area outside the bathing space.
• Run Inside the Facility – Onsen floors can be wet and slippery. Walk carefully to avoid accidents.
• Relieve Yourself in the Bath – It goes without saying, but never urinate in the onsen. Facilities have toilets nearby for a reason.

Tattoos have long carried a stigma in Japan because of their association with the yakuza, the country’s organised crime groups. For this reason, many traditional onsens historically banned anyone with visible ink. The rule wasn’t about art or self-expression, but about keeping the baths as neutral, safe spaces for all guests.

In recent years, though, attitudes have started to shift. Some onsens now welcome guests with tattoos, while others allow entry if the ink is small and can be covered with a bandage or patch. But even in progressive places like Tokyo, many baths still follow the old restriction, so it’s best to check your onsen's policy before you visit.

If you have tattoos, there are a few ways to enjoy an onsen without worry. For instance, if your onsen permits it, use a waterproof cover to hide small tattoos. You can also opt for a private bath (kashikiriburo or kazokuburo), where the rules are often more relaxed, or a tattoo-friendly onsen.

Ultimately, being mindful of tattoos helps you avoid awkward moments and shows respect for a custom still valued in many parts of Japan.

To ensure comfort and convenience, consider bringing the following:

• Basic Toiletries – Bring your own soap and shampoo, as some smaller local onsens might not provide them.
• Waterproof Bag or Pouch – Use this to carry your toiletries from the changing room to the washing area.
• Cash and Coins – Carry cash for lockers, coin-operated hairdryers or vending machines to buy a drink after your bath.
• Hair Tie – If you have long hair, tie it back to keep it out of the water.
• Water Bottle – You may bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. Just keep it close in the designated area outside the bath.
• Waterproof Bandage – Use this to cover small tattoos if your onsen permits it.

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