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Onsen Etiquette

Japan onsen etiquette guide for first-time visitors.

Learn hot spring rules, tattoos, towels, washing, ryokan baths and what to do if you feel nervous.

Quick answer

For most onsen in Japan, wash before entering, do not put towels in the bath, keep swimwear out unless allowed, and check tattoo rules before you go.

Choose your onsen situation

Pick the situation closest to your trip. Onsen rules feel easier when you know what matters before you enter.

If this is youYou are nervous about the first visitStart with a hotel or ryokan bath, read the posted rules and watch the flow before entering.
If this is youYou have tattoosCheck the facility policy first. Some places allow cover stickers, private baths or tattoo-friendly hours.
If this is youYou are staying at a ryokanAsk when the bath is open, where towels are provided and whether there are private bath options.
If this is youYou feel unsure about nudityLook for private baths, family baths or foot baths. You can still enjoy hot spring culture without forcing yourself.
If this is youYou worry about making mistakesFocus on the basics: wash first, enter quietly, no towels in the water and no photos in the bathing area.

Before using an onsen, check these

Use this short checklist before you decide what to do.

What to know

TipWash before enteringUse the shower area first. The shared bath is for soaking, not washing.
TipTowels stay outside the waterYou can place a small towel on your head or beside the bath, but not in the water.
TipPhotos are not okay in bath areasProtecting privacy is very important in onsen and public baths.
TipPrivate baths can be easierIf you are nervous, a private bath at a ryokan can make the experience calmer.
TipListen to your bodyHot water can make you dizzy. Leave the bath, drink water and rest if you feel uncomfortable.

Continue with hotel, manners and daily custom guides.

Related guideJapan Hotel GuideCheck ryokan, hotel rooms, luggage and check-in basics. Related guideJapan Travel Manners CheckReview public rules and etiquette before your trip. Related guideJapanese Daily Customs CheckUnderstand quiet spaces, shared manners and daily habits.

FAQ

Do tourists need to be naked in Japanese onsen?In most traditional onsen, yes, guests bathe without swimwear. Some private baths, foot baths or special facilities may feel easier for first-time visitors.
Can I enter an onsen with tattoos?Tattoo rules vary by facility. Check before visiting, look for tattoo-friendly onsen, ask about cover stickers or choose a private bath.
What is the most important onsen rule?Wash your body before entering the shared bath. Also keep towels, phones and cameras out of the bathing area.

Japanese version