Onsen: a short guide to good manners 温泉のマナー

Don't get the wrong bath

Men and women are separated. The men's bath is indicated by the character 男 (men) of blue color; that of women using the character 女 (women) in pink color. Beware who could be mistaken! Mixed baths exist, they are rare and you will generally only meet friendly elderly people there.

Enter

Clothes are withdrawn in a common locker room. You will have baskets or lockers at your disposal to store them without worrying. You enter the baths with your towel, without running, tying your hair back if it is long. Please note, tattooed people are not welcome everywhere, remember to ask before entering.

Read : Going to the onsen with a tattoo in Tokyo

no dive

The baths are too shallow anyway. Before entering the bath, you must shower carefully . Rows of faucets and mirrors are at your disposal. The shower is taken sitting on a stool, with a bucket to rinse. Lather up well, wash your hair and scrub well: bath water is supposed to stay clean for everyone.

splash around

It is better to gently enter the bath, which is usually very hot. Beware of vagal discomfort! No need to stay long, 5 minutes is more than enough. You will then have plenty of time to take another shower to return to the bath, or even try the rotemburo , the outdoor bath .

Read also : Visit Beppu, the capital of onsen

Be comfortable with nudity

Do not dive with your towel in the bath. You have to be naked. As a foreigner, some will attract polite curiosity. If you really have a hard time with nudity (your own or someone else's), hire a private bath. It is practical with children, but much more expensive.

To the output

All you have to do is get out. Guests can use hair dryers as well as disposable razors and foam. Pick up your clothes - or your yukata - from your locker and don't forget to hydrate! Drink vending machines are always located near the entrance, near massage chairs. You are now armed to face the Japanese baths!

To discover : Kinosaki onsen