Onsen

Japan has over 3,000 onsen resorts. Soaking in a natural hot spring is one of the consistently recommended experiences for foreigners living here. The etiquette rules are mostly unspoken, and first-timers rarely receive any instruction. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to do — and what not to do. What Is an Onsen? An onsen (温泉) is a natural hot spring bath fed by geothermally heated water. It’s different from a sento (銭湯), which is a public bathhouse using regular heated water. Onsen have mineral-rich water with specific health properties depending on the source. ...

Onsen is one of the best things about living in Japan — but first-timers often approach it with anxiety they don’t need to have. The etiquette is simple. The experience is worth it. Here’s everything you need to enjoy onsen with confidence. Types of Onsen Type Description 露天風呂 (Rotenburo) Outdoor bath — often the most scenic 内湯 (Uchiyu) Indoor bath 貸切風呂 (Kashikiri-buro) Private/reserved bath — book in advance 混浴 (Konyoku) Mixed-gender bath — increasingly rare 日帰り温泉 (Higaeri onsen) Day-trip onsen — no overnight stay needed The Basic Rules Before You Enter Pay at the front desk (番台) — usually ¥500–1,500 for day use Separate by gender — men (男/♂) and women (女/♀) use different entrances Remove shoes at the entrance, store in lockers In the Changing Room (脱衣所) Undress completely — swimwear is not allowed in traditional onsen Store clothes and valuables in a locker Bring your small towel (tenugui) into the bath area At the Washing Station (洗い場) Always wash your entire body before entering the bath — this is non-negotiable Sit at a washing station (individual shower station with stool and bucket) Use the soap and shampoo provided (or bring your own) Rinse all soap off completely before entering the hot spring In the Bath Keep your small towel out of the water (fold it on your head or set it aside) No splashing, swimming, or loud talking Don’t drain or dirty the water Rinse off again after soaking if you’ve been sweating heavily Tattoo Policy This is the biggest issue for many foreigners. Most traditional onsen and public baths do not allow tattoos due to historical association with the yakuza. ...

Walking into a sento for the first time without knowing the rules is a fast way to embarrass yourself and everyone around you. But sento culture is one of the most rewarding parts of life in Japan once you understand it. This guide covers everything — from what to bring to what never to do. Sento vs Onsen: What’s the Difference? Sento (銭湯) Onsen (温泉) Water source Heated tap water Natural hot spring Location Urban neighborhoods Resorts, rural areas, some cities Price ¥480–600 ¥500–2,500+ Atmosphere Local, everyday Relaxing, resort-like Facilities Basic to moderate Often extensive Both are bathing culture — the etiquette is the same. ...

What you'll learn in this guide Why tattoos are restricted in many Japanese facilities (the historical reason) Which types of facilities ban tattoos and which are becoming more flexible How to find tattoo-friendly onsens in Japan Gym and pool policies for tattooed foreigners Japan’s changing attitude toward tattoos in 2025 Practical tips for navigating Japan with visible tattoos Quick Answer Tattoos are not illegal in Japan, but they are banned from many traditional facilities — particularly onsens (hot springs), public pools, and some gyms. The reason is historical association with yakuza (organized crime). Japan’s policies are gradually becoming more flexible for foreigners, but you need to know where restrictions apply before planning activities. ...