Soaking in an onsen (hot spring) is a quintessential Japanese experience — but the etiquette can feel daunting the first time. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide so you can relax with confidence.
The golden rule: wash before you soak
The bath is for soaking, not washing. You clean yourself thoroughly at the shower stations before entering the communal bath. The bath water stays clean for everyone.
Step by step
- Undress fully in the changing room — no swimsuits. Put clothes in a basket or locker.
- Bring the small towel to the bathing area (a modesty towel).
- Wash and rinse completely at a shower station — sit on the stool, rinse off all soap.
- Enter the bath slowly — it’s hot. Keep the small towel out of the water (rest it on your head or the side).
- Soak and relax. Rinse off after if you like, then dry with the small towel before returning to the changing room.
Do’s and don’ts
- Do tie up long hair so it doesn’t touch the water.
- Don’t put your towel or head under the water, swim, or splash.
- Don’t take photos — privacy is essential.
- Keep voices low — it’s a place to unwind. More in our etiquette guide.
Tattoos?
Many onsen still restrict tattoos, but there are workarounds (cover patches, private baths, tattoo-friendly spots) — see our tattoo & onsen guide.
Where to soak
Try an onsen town for the full experience — see our best onsen towns and Hakone guide. A ryokan with a private open-air bath is the stress-free way to start.