03.11.2025
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How to enjoy Onsen
Since ancient times, Japanese people have used onsen to relax and relieve physical ailments and the fatigue of daily labor.
Onsen are a blessing provided by nature. They were revered as sacred.
There are some manners and rules, when taking a bath in an onsen.
Tattoos are prohibited
Although it is becoming more and more permissible these days, but there are many Onsen facilities where people with tattoos are not allowed. It is very unfortunate, but there is still a prejudice against tattoos in Japan.This is due to the fact that during the Edo period, criminals were tattooed as punishment. In modern times, Yakuza often had tattoos. Tattoos were not a fashion, but a symbol of evil.
Although the practice is gradually being eased, there are still some places where it is strictly prohibited, so it is safe to do your research beforehand before visiting a facility and being disappointed.
No swimsuit required.
It is a culture to go naked in onsen. No one cares if you are naked, since everyone is naked. (At some facilities. swimsuits are allowed or required.)On the other hand, it is awkward to stare at other people's nudity, so please don't do it.
If you are really concerned, choose a facility with a private onsen. If it is a private onsen, couples or families can use it together.
Changing rooms are shared.
Put your clothes in the basket in the changing room. Put your valuables in the coin lockers in the changing rooms. After taking off your clothes in the changing rooms, go to the bath area with a hand towel.First of all, wash your body.
Onsen are for everyone. First, wash your body in the shower to remove dirt before getting into the onsen. You can use a hand towel to wash your body.Calm down!
Take your time and be quiet in the hot springs. Do not jump in, swim, or run. Keep your mind calm.The floor is slippery with soap and water, so do not run.Do not put hand towels in the Onsen.
Do not put it in the onsen as it is used to wash your body. Fold it up and place it on your head, or place it next to the bathtub, near yourself.Alcohol consumption in moderation
Eating and drinking are generally not allowed in the baths. Some facilities allow drinking, but drinking alcohol to excess is dangerous. Drinking too much is dangerous, as there are risks of falling and injuring oneself while intoxicated.Drink a milk
Most Onsen facilities have vending machines that sell bottled milk. There are a variety of flavors, such as coffee milk and fruit milk. I don't know why, but bottled milk tastes many times better after a bath.Incidentally, the number of companies producing bottled milk is on the decline.
It may soon be undrinkable, so if you want to try it, now is the time to do so.
Now you are a Onsen master )
Have a nice Trip!!
