Guide to Japanese Onsen
(Hot Springs): Etiquette & What to Expect

If you're planning to visit Japan and are wondering what is an onsen in Japan, or you're unsure about onsen etiquette, this guide will prepare you for your dip into Japanese culture.
Last updated: 05.08.2025

Few experiences in Japan are as relaxing—or as culturally rich—as soaking in a steaming Japanese onsen. Nestled in tranquil mountain towns, coastal resorts, and hidden valleys, these Japanese hot springs offer more than a simple bath: they offer a timeless ritual rooted in centuries of tradition.

What Is an Onsen in Japan?

Imagine steam rising from stone pools surrounded by snow-capped mountains or bamboo groves. The scent of minerals in the air, your muscles melting into warm water that’s been flowing from the earth for centuries. That’s the magic of a Japanese onsen.
So, what is an onsen in Japan? An onsen (温泉) is a natural hot spring bath, heated by volcanic geothermal activity and rich in minerals like sulfur, iron, and sodium chloride.

These minerals are believed to offer a range of health benefits—from soothing arthritis and fatigue to improving skin condition and blood circulation. But an onsen isn’t just a bath—it's an immersive cultural ritual. Locals have used onsens for healing, relaxation, and social connection for over 1,000 years. Visiting one is like stepping into a calm, meditative world where time slows and the body heals.

Types of Onsens in Japan

When exploring Japan in a Nutshell, keep in mind there are thousands of onsens across Japan, and they come in many forms. Here's what to expect:
Indoor Onsen (内湯 - uchiyu)
Usually located inside a ryokan (traditional inn) or bathhouse, these are commonly gender-separated. You'll find modern facilities with clean showers, wooden tubs, and large communal baths with steaming mineral water.
Outdoor Onsen (露天風呂 - rotenburo)
A rotenburo is an open-air bath, often overlooking stunning natural landscapes like rivers, forests, or snowy peaks. Soaking in warm mineral water while watching cherry blossoms fall or snowflakes melt on the surface? Unforgettable.
Private Onsen (貸切風呂 - kashikiri-buro)
Perfect for couples, families, or travelers with tattoos, private baths can be reserved at many ryokans. You’ll enjoy the onsen in solitude, with no strangers around.

Japanese Onsen Etiquette: A Step-by-Step Guide

Get Naked
Yes, Completely! No swimsuits, no undergarments, and no exceptions. Bathing completely nude is non-negotiable in almost every onsen. It may feel strange at first, but this is a deeply ingrained part of the culture—and no one is paying attention to your body. Why the nudity? It's about hygiene, equality, and tradition. The idea is that everyone is the same in the water, free from distractions and labels. But if you’re shy, use the modesty towel (see below) to cover yourself as you walk to the bath.

Towels: Use One—But Never in the Bath
You’ll often be given two towels:

A large bath towel (for drying afterward) – leave it in the locker or changing area.
A small towel (tenugui) – take this with you into the bathing area.

This small towel can be used for modesty and washing, but never dunk it in the onsen. That’s considered unhygienic. Instead, rest it on the side of the bath or do what many locals do: fold it neatly and place it on your head!

Shower Thoroughly Before Entering
You must wash your body, and washing your hair is optional—but appreciated. This is the golden rule of onsen etiquette. Before entering the bath, scrub yourself head to toe at the designated washing stations. You'll find small stools, buckets, handheld showers, soap, and shampoo provided. The onsen water is kept pristine, and no one wants to share a bath with someone who hasn’t cleaned up. If you do wash your hair, tie it up so it doesn’t trail in the water.

Phones & Cameras Are Not Allowed
You can not use phones in the onsens, this is strictly enforced.
Phones, cameras, and any filming equipment are banned in most onsens. This is to protect guests' privacy and to preserve the peaceful atmosphere. Even if the scenery is Instagram-worthy, snapping a photo could make others deeply uncomfortable.
Pro Tip: If you want a souvenir photo, take one outside the facility, before or after your soak.

In the snowy mountains of Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture, a troop of wild Japanese macaques—commonly known as snow monkeys—have become famous for something truly unique: soaking in natural hot springs just like humans. Hop on a Japan Wild Snow Monkey Side tour to explore this unique spot and take stunning photos with monkeys!

Tattoos May Be an Issue

Do I need to cover my tattoos?
Maybe. It depends on the onsen.
Tattoos in Japan have long been associated with the Yakuza (organized crime groups), and many traditional onsens still enforce a no-tattoo policy.
But don’t worry—things are changing:

Many modern onsens now welcome tattooed visitors.
Others allow access if you cover tattoos with stickers or sleeves.
Some ryokans offer private onsen rooms, where you can bathe without restriction.

Tip: Check the onsen’s policy on tattoos in advance—or ask Firebird Tours to recommend tattoo-friendly options.

No Swimming, No Splashing, No Talking Loudly

Japanese hot springs are for quiet soaking, not for play. You’ll notice how calm the atmosphere is—conversations are kept to a whisper, and everyone is focused on relaxation.
Do’s:

Soak quietly.
Keep your movements minimal.
Respect other bathers' space.

Don’ts:

Don’t splash, swim, or dive.
Don’t bring children who can’t stay calm (opt for family-friendly facilities instead).

Tip: If you're visiting during a quieter time (like weekday mornings), you'll likely have a more serene, uncrowded experience.

After the Soak

Onsens are about more than hot water—they’re about harmony, mindfulness, and connection with nature. By following these tips, you’re entering a sacred space of the internal calm and healing:

Rinse again if the onsen water contains strong minerals like sulfur (some can dry your skin).
Drink water afterward to rehydrate—some onsens have vending machines or lounges.
Don’t rush—many onsens offer areas to rest, read, or enjoy local snacks after your bath.
Have a hearty dinner—after a soul-soothing soak in the onsen, your body will crave nourishment—and there’s no better way to recharge than by indulging in the rich and refined Flavours of Japan.

What to Expect at Your First Onsen Visit

When you arrive at the onsen (whether it's a public bathhouse, luxury ryokan, or hidden mountainside retreat), you’ll:

Pay the entrance fee at the front desk (some accept cash only)
Or show your reservation if you’re staying overnight at a ryokan

You may be handed two towels (a large one for drying, and a small one for washing/modesty) and sometimes a locker key.

Onsens are almost always separated by gender, marked with the characters:

男 (otoko) = Men’s bath (usually blue curtain)
女 (onna) = Women’s bath (usually red curtain)

Inside the changing room:

Remove all clothing and store it in a basket or locker
Leave your large towel in the changing area
Bring only your small towel and any toiletries

Tip: If you feel self-conscious, remember: everyone else is too relaxed to care. Nudity here is just part of the culture.

Wash, Rinse, Repeat

Before even thinking about touching the onsen water, head straight to the shower stations.

Sit on the little stool (don’t stand!)
Use the provided shampoo, body wash, and rinse buckets
Scrub yourself clean—this is a must
If you wash your hair, tie it up afterward

Afterward, you may feel:

Calm, clear-headed, and incredibly relaxed
A little light-headed (from the heat)—hydrate!
Amazed that something so simple could feel so magical

Whether you're interested in Japan's winter wonders, as seen in our Winter Wonderland of Japan tour, or intrigued by the cultural depth of Imperial Capitals of Japan with Kanazawa, let Firebird Tours craft your perfect onsen journey.

Did you know that one of the most iconic onsen in animation history is featured in Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning film, Spirited Away (2001)?
The mysterious bathhouse (Aburaya) where the young heroine Chihiro works is inspired by real Japanese onsen culture—especially the traditional architecture and rituals found in historic onsen towns like Dōgo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture and Arima Onsen in Hyogo.

Japan’s Impeccable Public Transport

Many of Japan’s most beloved onsen towns are easily accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train), making them perfect for a relaxing getaway from busy city life. For example, Hakone, just a short ride from Tokyo via the Tokaido Shinkansen and local connections, offers stunning mountain views and luxurious hot spring ryokans. Kusatsu Onsen, known for its healing waters, is reachable from Tokyo by taking the Joetsu Shinkansen to Takasaki and transferring to a local train or bus. Farther north, Ginzan Onsen, with its charming Taisho-era architecture, can be reached via the Yamagata Shinkansen to Oishida Station. Thanks to Japan’s high-speed rail network, soaking in a scenic onsen can be just a smooth, scenic train ride away.
You can book Shinkansen tickets on Rail Ninja, that offers outstanding service in online ticket-booking.

Enhance Your Japan Trip with a Firebird Tour

Imagine soaking in a steaming open-air onsen surrounded by snow-dusted pines, slipping into a yukata robe, and savoring a multi-course kaiseki dinner made with local mountain delicacies—all without lifting a finger to plan it.
At Firebird Tours, we curate culturally immersive, luxury experiences that go far beyond the guidebook. Whether you're dreaming of a lakeside soak in Hakone, a traditional onsen-hopping stroll through Kinosaki, or a secluded alpine escape in Gero or the Japanese Alps, we’ll tailor your journey to match your style—be it romantic, adventurous, or restorative.
Browse our handpicked Japan tours, like the scenic Essence of Japan, or the all-encompassing Grand Tour of Japan, each including access to iconic and hidden hot spring destinations.

Stay in handpicked luxury ryokans with private hot spring baths
Enjoy local cuisine prepared by master chefs
Travel seamlessly with our help booking Shinkansen tickets, local transfers, and even tattoo-friendly onsen options
Add optional extras like Zen temple stays, tea ceremonies, or seasonal festivals nearby

Your only job? Relax and enjoy Japan at its most authentic.

A visit to a Japanese onsen isn’t just a bath—it’s a ritual of rest, renewal, and reconnection with nature. It’s where centuries-old tradition meets the simplest human need: to pause and feel peace.
Now that you understand the onsen etiquette, know what to expect, and have a few fun facts in your back pocket, you’re ready to soak like a local—with grace and gratitude. So whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler craving something deeper, let Firebird Tours craft the perfect onsen journey for you. From volcanic coastlines to mountain hideaways, your next unforgettable soak is just a train ride away.

Guide to Japanese Onsen (Hot Springs): Etiquette & What to Expect