Onsen Etiquette

There is definitely a strong element of ritual when it comes to taking an onsen, but really there’s nothing at all difficult about it as long as you remember some simple basics.

The golden rules for taking an onsen (or sento) in Japan are as follows;

1. Wash top to bottom in the wash area BEFORE going in.
2. DO NOT bring your large bath towel into the bath (it stays with your clothes in the changing area)
3. Make sure to rinse thoroughly so as not to carry soap suds into the bath with you when you go in.
4. Remember that an onsen is a bath, not a swimming pool, don’t treat it as a thing for entertainment.
5. Soak for a while but do not soak your courtesy towel in the water. Most people leave it by the side of the bath or fold it in half and place it on their heads.
6. After your first soak, get out and scrub down in the wash area once more (optional).
7. You are now ready to hop as many baths as you can find.
8. Please also remember to be mindful of your volume so as not to disturb the tranquility of others.

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