Get the Best Onsen Experience

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Top Image by Michael Sum on Unsplash

For anyone coming to Japan, chances are you’ve done a lot of research. There are likely many things you find interesting about Japan’s culture. For instance, its people are often said to have a reserved, even shy nature (even locals themselves will say as much.) And yet it seems like everyone is comfortable taking baths together out in the open air. It may seem strange until you try it, but you should- any Japan experience is not complete without it!

You’ll have plenty of time to ponder this dichotomy while you soak in mineral-rich, super relaxing onsen water. Before you seek out one of the many popular onsen and hop in though, there are a few things to understand about proper onsen etiquette.

Leave Shyness at the Genkan (Entrance)

We get it- the concept of getting naked in front of a pack of strangers can be intimidating. But not it’s not just polite or respectful to disrobe before entering the onsen waters; it’s a strict rule. The onsen you visit might have a small towel to cover up, but once you get through the locker room that’s it. Most onsen have separate areas for men and women, which may (or may not) put you more at ease.

The important thing is to let go of your self-consciousness for a bit, and remember that everyone else is doing the same. As awkward as it may be at first, be friendly- the person next to you might want to chat considering you are an “overseas visitor” (or resident!) You get a golden opportunity to socialize and to brush up on your Japanese skills. So leave your shyness behind, sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful experience!

Leave Your Belongings in the Locker

As you already know, you’ll have to leave your clothes behind. Every onsen will have a locker room before the bathing area. Again, these will be separate for men and women.

Some older onsen may not have locks on the lockers (or cubbies), but you need not worry. Theft is still rare in Japan and virtually unheard of at onsen. If it gives you peace of mind though, lockers with locks are often available for a small fee. Failing that, there may be a staff member acting as “monitor” of sorts there as a reassurance. Larger, newer establishments may have locked lockers as a default.

In this digital age, as much as you may want to snap photos of your onsen experience (even just of yourself) smartphones are a big no-no. Leave them with your other belongings. The same goes for any other electronic device- aside from the risk of damage/electrocution, it just isn’t proper to bring them with you.

Also, leave your eyeglasses behind too. Navigating your way to and around the bathing area isn’t that hard, especially if you’re with friends. You won’t be able to see through foggy glasses anyway.

Bring a Towel (and a Friend)

Although many onsen provide towels for free or for a small fee,  many others won’t provide you with that blessing and might just make your experience a little extra awkward. After a long, relaxing, stress-relieving soak, realizing that there is no towel might kill the mood somewhat. Always bring one along with you, even if you don’t need it and the onsen provides free towels as part of the package.

An additional tip: bring a friend or friends with you, especially if they are an experience onsen-goer. It’s a great way to strengthen your friendship. And, it may help ease some of the initial awkwardness by having people you know who also know what they’re doing.

Wash First, Bathe Later

The golden rule of going to an onsense: the onsen is not for bathing, just for soaking. Prior to entering the heated waters, you have to clean your body from head to toe. It’s not hard to forget this step as there will be plenty of showerheads, stools, and rinsing products on your way from the locker room.

After washing, don’t jump into the hot water, as it might be a little too hot for your liking and needs some getting used to. Temperatures typically vary from 39°C to 42°C. Do what Japanese people do and take it slowly. Splash some onsen water over your lower body, a process known as kakeyu.

So About the Tattoo Thing

Let’s be upfront about it: Tattoos have long been taboo in Japan due to their association with organized crime. For years, entrance to onsen and other public bathing facilities was denied to those with even a little ink on principle. This also deterred those from overseas where there is no such stigma. Fortunately, attitudes are changing, if very slowly.

Some onsen will allow people with tattoos, especially if there are options for private onsen. Although rare, others may simply overlook small tattoos on foreign guests who clearly so not look like they would be involved with the yakuza. The best solution though is that some pharmacies and even onsen places sell temporary tattoo covers. You can use these to cover your tattoos and enjoy the experience of the onsen.

Now, Let’s Soak!

Onsen is an integral part of Japanese culture. By being respectful to their norms and following the customs, you can enjoy this amazing experience. It’ll make you Japan experience just that much more memorable.

Photo Credits:

Top Image by Michael Sum on Unsplash 

All other content (text) created by the original author and © 2022 MUSUBI by Borderlink

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