Onsen

In Japan, “onsen” (温泉) refers to hot springs and the bathing facilities and traditional inns around them. These are often located in areas with naturally hot, geothermally heated water. 

• Meaning: “Onsen” translates to “hot spring” in Japanese. 
• Facilities: Onsen establishments can range from luxurious hotels to simpler, more traditional inns (ryokans). 
• Water Source: The water used in onsen is naturally heated by geothermal activity. 
• Etiquette: There are specific rules of etiquette to follow when visiting onsen, which can include washing your body before entering the bath, not wearing swimsuits or underwear, and not splashing in the water. 
• Gender Segregation: Most onsen baths are gender segregated but mixed baths do exist. 
• Tattoos: Traditionally, people with tattoos were banned from entering onsen due to the negative associations irezumi (the Japanese word for tattoo) have with criminality and gang affiliations. However, today there are now more and more onsen facilities declaring themselves “tattoo-friendly”.

Do you wear clothes in onsen?

In traditional Japanese onsen (hot springs), you are expected to bathe completely nude, with the exception of some establishments that may offer modest options or have more relaxed rules, especially for tourists. 

• Nudity is the norm: The traditional practice is to bathe completely nude, with no swimwear, underwear, or towels allowed in the water. 
• Separate facilities: Most onsen are gender-separated, so you’ll bathe with people of the same gender. 
• Modesty towels: You may be provided with a small towel (like a hand towel) to cover yourself as you enter the bath and to use while soaking, but it should never be submerged in the water. 
• Wash before you soak: It’s crucial to wash your body thoroughly before entering the onsen, using the provided shower area and soap. 
• Check for exceptions: Some onsen, particularly those catering to tourists or those with mixed bathing areas, may have more relaxed rules or offer options for modest bathing. It’s always best to check the specific rules of the onsen you plan to visit.  
• Yukata: In onsen hotels or ryokans, you might wear a yukata (a traditional Japanese robe) and slippers when going to the onsen area