Japanese Onsen Tips | Guide to Enjoy the Hot Springs Bath

As a country blessed with hot springs (onsen in Japanese), you may have heard that there are usually certain manners and rules to follow before entering the hot springs. If you're interested in onsen manners, or preparing for a Japan tour that includes a soothing onsen bath, follow this guide of Japanese onsen tips to enjoy the soothing hot springs bath like local.

Japanese Onsen FAQs

How Long Should I Soak in Hot Springs?

How long you should soak in hot springs depends largely on the water temperature. The hotter the water, the shorter your soak should be.

For beginners, 3 to 10 minutes per session is a good starting point. Take your time getting used to the temperature and remember to rest or cool down between soaks.

Once you've adjusted to the warmth, you can gradually extend your time to 15 to 20 minutes for a more relaxing experience.

Onsen

Can I Go to an Onsen With a Tattoo?

Yes, you can! Many onsen resorts in Japan are becoming more tattoo-friendly, and some have relaxed their rules to allow tattooed visitors to enjoy the baths.

However, it's still common to find some strict hot springs that don't accept guests with tattoos. Be sure to check the rules beforehand, or contact Odynovo in finding the best tattoo-friendly onsen for you.

Onsen Tips & Etiquettes Before Your Bath

Rest Well Before Your Soak

It is advisable to rest for 30 minutes or more before taking a hot spring bath, especially after eating, drinking alcohol, or exercising. Also, if you feel very tired, it is not a good idea to take an onsen bath right away.

Drink a Glass of Water

To avoid dehydration due to the high temperature of water and room, it is always a good idea to drink a glass of water before taking a bath.

Take a Shower Before Entering

For hygienic and health reasons, it is necessary to take a shower before entering the hot bath. Also, remember that rubbing your body in the onsen is also considered a bad practice. This is because even if you have showered before, dirt will inevitably come off in the water.

Water Source of Onsen

Get Used to the Temperature

Because jumping into hot water suddenly puts a lot of pressure on your heart and blood vessels due to the changes in temperature and water pressure, it is recommended that you take a hot shower or pour some warm water over your body to get used to the temperature before jumping in.

Be Completely Naked

In most spas around the world, bathing suits are the norm, so the 'naked rule' at Japanese onsen may surprise many visitors. You can use a towel to cover yourself until just before entering the hot spring, but remember to leave it outside the bathtub.

For your still unbeatable shamelessness, a private hot tub is another option to avoid embarrassment. You can relax in the warm water whether you're naked or wearing a swimsuit.

Private Onsen

Cover Your Tattoos If You Have Any

In Japan, tattoos are often associated with criminal gangs, which can make them intimidating to some people. To avoid misunderstandings and show respect to the locals, it's highly recommended to cover your tattoos with stickers before entering the hot springs.

Fortunately, many onsen facilities are becoming more accommodating, allowing guests with tattoos for reasons such as religion, culture, or fashion to enjoy the baths.

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Dos & Don'ts During Your Bath

No Photos

Well, it is quite easy to cause embarrassment by taking photos in the public area of the onsen, as everyone is naked, and the act of taking photos in the onsen may violate local laws. To avoid further misunderstandings, it is recommended that you leave your camera or mobile phone in the locker.

No Fragile Items

Since everyone is naked in hot springs, in many cases, fragile items such as glasses can be extremely dangerous. Just keep your items in your locker, as well as your glasses.

Slow Walk, No Running

The slippery floor of the steaming onsen bath is difficult to avoid, so it is important to walk carefully and slowly, whether you are entering or leaving the bathtub.

Beware of Slippery Floors

Sit Still, No Swimming or Diving

It is quite impolite to swim in hot springs, as this is a place to relax your body. Sitting still is a good way to enjoy the hot springs, which can gradually warm you up and help you get used to the high temperature. If there are fewer people and a large empty space, you can also lie down.

No Hair & Towel in the Water

Still, for hygienic reasons, it is necessary to tie up your hair and leave your towel on the bathtub in public hot springs. If you have a good position to lie down, make sure you keep your head above the water and don't let your hair down in the water.

Stand Up Slowly, No Rush

The high temperature of the onsen can sometimes cause low blood pressure and irregular heartbeat, leading to dizziness when standing up. To avoid feeling dizzy or falling, take your time and stand up slowly.

Onsen Tips & Steps to Enjoy the Bath Like Locals

Before Entering

• Clean your body by drawing hot water from the kakeyu bath.
• Wash off the dirt and acclimatize your body to the temperature of the water.
• To minimize the strain on your heart, try to warm up your body first by pouring a small amount of warm water over your toes, arms, and other areas away from your heart.

During the Bath

• Enter the bath from the side opposite where the hot water flows in, as the water source is considered the purest and should remain uncontaminated.
• Start by soaking only the lower half of your body, immersing yourself up to your waist.
• Once you've adjusted to the temperature, gradually immerse yourself up to your shoulders.
• Be sure to take breaks outside the bath to avoid staying in the hot water for too long.

After the Bath

• Dry yourself with a towel before going outside.
• Put on a yukata before going to the lounge, which usually has massage chairs, a small bar, and a shop selling food and local specialties.
• Relax in a massage chair or refresh yourself with a cool glass of coffee or milk.
• Take a leisurely stroll around the hot spring resort, soaking up the scenery and tranquil atmosphere.

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Get Ready for Your Onsen Bath in Japan

Some of the etiquette mentioned above may be confusing at first, but once you have experienced it, you will find that it is really helpful to enjoy the hot springs. Whether you are new to hot springs or not, be sure to visit and fully experience Japanese onsen culture and the gourmets that come with it. To further enhance your Japan tour, feel free to contact Odynovo for a customized itinerary that includes the most soothing hot springs