Sauna and spa rules in Japan: phones, alcohol and tattoos differ by facility
There is no single national rulebook. Large spa chains in Japan often ban phones in the bathing area, refuse guests who have been drinking, and refuse tattoos, so check each facility's page first.
Why it depends on the place
When in Rome, do as the Romans do: follow the rules of the place you are in. Do not assume that the rules of the last place you visited are the same here. Even branches of the same chain can differ. Read the notices at the entrance and in the changing room every time, and ask the staff if you are not sure.
Saunas, super-sento (large public bath complexes) and spa chains each set their own rules. The examples below come from the official pages of two well-known operators. They show what is common, but your facility may differ.
Phones and photos
The spa chain Ryusenji no Yu says that using mobile phones, including calls and email, is completely forbidden inside bathrooms and changing rooms. Leave your phone in your locker.
Even where phones are allowed, do not take pictures of other guests.
Alcohol
RAKU SPA 1010 Kanda in Tokyo checks every guest with a breathalyzer at entry. It says guests are refused if the reading is over 0.25 mg, if they decline the test, or if staff judge that use of the facility would be too risky.
Hot baths and saunas after drinking are dangerous. Do not drink before you go.
Tattoos
Many facilities refuse guests with tattoos, and some count tattoo stickers too. Ryusenji no Yu says this at most of its branches. A few branches allow small tattoos if you cover them with their own cover stickers.
Rules vary by branch, so ask before you travel. See our onsen page for private baths as an alternative.
Common sauna manners
- Wash your hair and body before entering a bath or sauna, and wipe off water drops before you go into the sauna room.
- Do not wring out a wet towel inside the sauna room, and never wring it over the sauna stones. This can damage the heater.
- If you want to pour water on the stones yourself (self-löyly), ask the people around you first and follow the notice on the wall. Do not overdo it.
- Rinse off your sweat before you enter the cold plunge pool, and do not dive under the water. A few facilities allow it, so check the sign.
- Do not fall asleep in the outdoor cooling area. It blocks the space for others.
- Some sauna areas ask for complete silence. Follow the signs.
These are common sauna manners in Japan and are not an official national rule. Each facility sets its own, so follow the notices on site.
FAQ
Can I bring my phone into the sauna area?
Many chains ban phones in the bathrooms and changing rooms. Check the rules of your facility and use the locker.
Can I go to a sauna with a tattoo?
It depends on the facility. Many refuse tattoos, and some branches allow small ones if covered. Ask in advance.
I was fine at another facility. Can I do the same here?
Not necessarily. Rules on phones, tattoos, alcohol, silence and cold plunge pools differ by facility and even by branch. Check the notices and ask the staff each time.
Is there one official sauna etiquette guide?
We did not find a nationwide official guide. Each facility sets its own rules, so follow the notices on site.
Sources
Related tips
- Onsen etiquette for beginners: 5 steps and the tattoo questionWash 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Last checked: 2026-10-28. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.