Onsen (hot springs) and sento (community bathhouses) have been around for many centuries so it is easy to assume the Japanese got the tradition down. Both terms refer to public baths, while onsen is fed by natural geothermal springs and contains at least one of 19 specific natural elements, and sento generally uses tap water. Going to an onsen is definitely a relaxing and fun cultural activity to try out but can also seem a little bit intimidating at first for most foreign visitors. Here is a list of the Dos and Don’ts of Japanese public baths.
1. Tattoos
You usually find a sign telling “those with tattoos will not be allowed inside the facility” at an onsen. This is related to the cultural taboo of tattoo and yakuza (Japanese mafia). Don’t give up so soon yet buddy! There has been a growing number of tattoo-friendly onsen and sento, which allow customers with their tattoo-covered or even without a cover. You may buy water-resistant plaster or tattoo cover at the drug stores.
2. Get clean first
There is a specific sequence to enjoy onsen in Japan. First, get yourself clean, then bathe. At onsen and sento, you will enter a washing area before you reach the baths. Try to follow how locals do, find lines of mini sit-down shower stalls and make good use of the shower and bucket to pour some warm water onto yourself. Do not stand up and and be mindful not to splash other people in the area as much as possible.
3. Free soap
Usually, there will be shampoo and body washer provided, some luxurious onsen hotels or resorts provide a full set of conditioner and skincare products, and you are welcome to bring a bag or a basket of your own to sento too.
4. Get naked
Everyone baths naked, so, no need to be shy. Although some water park onsen resorts allow bikini or bathing suits, most do not. Take off your clothes, store them with your belongings in a key locker (you may prepare some 100yens coins), and enjoy the onsen experience.
5. Long hair
Most of the onsens are divided by gender. For long hair, the best option is to tie it up and prevent it from touching the water as much as possible. You will not want to see hair floating by your shoulders when bathing in the warm water.
6. Big & small towel
If you are going to an onsen with hands empty, no worries! Besides soap and shampoo, you will also be given a set of large body towels and a small face towel. The large one is for fully drying off after your relaxing soak, while the small one to the bath with you. However, it is important not to let the towel touch the water. Some suggest keeping it on top of your head can help prevent dizziness.
7. No Swimming
There are no specific rules of how to sit or lie down when bathing, yet, make sure your head is not submerged in an onsen. Take good care of your kids although it might seem to be a very tempting lukewarm swimming pool.
8. After onsen
Onsens are full of natural spring water with many minerals, so if you do not want to lose the healing properties, do not shower afterward. Of course, if you have sensitive skin, you rinse it off.
9. Dry yourself
Before you head back to the changing room, make sure you are not soaking wet. Dry yourself off with a big towel before leaving the onsen room.
10. Keep the peace
It is best to keep the noise level down to a minimum as onsen is a communal space. Respect one another’ onsen experience and keep the peace (unless you are enjoying a private onsen in-house) and the local’s manners.
