Onsen etiquette for beginners: 5 steps and the tattoo question
Wash your whole body first, keep your small towel out of the water, and check the tattoo rule before you go. Here is the full step-by-step for a Japanese hot spring.
What to expect
An onsen is a Japanese hot spring bath. In most public onsen you bathe without clothes, and men and women use separate baths. Look for the characters 男 (men) and 女 (women), or blue and red curtains.
You only bring a small towel or washcloth into the bathing area. Leave your other belongings in a locker in the changing room.
The 5 steps
- 1. Leave your shoes and bag in the changing room, and use the slippers provided.
- 2. Undress and put your clothes in a basket or locker.
- 3. Sit on a stool at the washing area and rinse your whole body well with the shower or bucket. Leave no soap on your body.
- 4. Enter the bath slowly. Keep your small towel out of the water. Put it on the edge of the bath or on your head.
- 5. Soak quietly. When you finish, rinse the stool and bucket you used for the next person.
Small rules people forget
- Tie up long hair so it does not touch the water.
- Do not swim, splash or wash clothes in the bath.
- Do not put your towel in the water.
- Speak quietly. Many people come to relax.
What about tattoos?
Many onsen do not allow guests with tattoos. Rules differ from place to place, and some are more flexible now. There is no single national rule.
- Check the website or ask by phone or email before you go.
- Some places allow small tattoos if you cover them. Others do not accept covering, so ask first.
- A private bath (called kashikiri-buro, which you can book for your family or group) or a hotel room with its own bath is another way to enjoy hot water.
FAQ
Can I wear a swimsuit in an onsen?
Usually no. Most onsen require you to bathe without clothes. Some mixed-use or resort pools are different, so check the rules of each place.
Do I need to bring my own towel?
It depends on the facility. Hotels and ryokan (traditional inns) often provide towels. Day-use onsen may rent or sell them. Ask at the front desk.
Should I ask about the tattoo rule even if my tattoo is small?
Yes. Policies differ by facility, and some do not accept covered tattoos either. It is best to check before you arrive.
Sources
Related tips
- Do you tip in Japan?Short answer: no. Tipping is not expected in restaurants, cafes, taxis or hotels in Japan. Here is when it is fine, and what to do instead.
- Where to throw away trash in Japan (there are few street bins)Public trash bins are rare in Japan. Carry a small bag, use the bins at stations and convenience stores, and take your trash home if you cannot find one.
Last checked: 2026-10-27. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.