It's best to remember the proper etiquette for hot springs in the following order: before entering, inside the bath, and after leaving.
Those researching hot spring etiquette want to know what is acceptable and what to avoid without fear. This guide will organize the information from before entering the bath to after getting out, making it easy to understand even for first-time visitors to Japanese hot springs.
Good manners at hot springs are fundamental to keeping the facilities clean and ensuring that others can relax and enjoy themselves.
In Japanese hot springs, there are several basic rules, such as washing your body before entering the bath, not putting towels in the water, not making loud noises, and not taking pictures. These may seem like a lot of details, but the idea is simple: to keep the water clean and ensure that everyone in the same space can enjoy it with peace of mind.
People searching online aren't just looking for rules to avoid getting scolded. They also want to know where to take off their clothes, what to do with their hair, where to put their towels, what to do when bathing with children, and how to check if someone has tattoos. Knowing the procedure before you go in makes hot springs much more accessible.
Articles aimed at tourists visiting Japan become difficult to read if they only list prohibited activities. Explaining things in the order of reception, changing room, washing area, bath, and after-bath routines makes it easier to understand what to do at the location.
What people who searched really want to know
Wash your body before getting into the bathtub.
Rinse your body in the washing area before getting into the bathtub. If you have long hair, tying it up will prevent it from getting into the water.
Do not put towels in the bathtub.
The small towel is used for washing your body and is not placed in the bathtub. Some people place it outside the bathtub or on their head.
Photos and smartphones are not used.
Please respect other people's privacy in the bathing area and changing rooms. Avoid taking photos or using your smartphone, and make any necessary communications outside.
Candidates that can easily be turned into travel enjoyment
Start by getting your body used to the indoor bath.
It's safer to start with a short soak to let your body adjust rather than going straight into the hot springs for a long time. Warming up in the indoor bath before heading to the open-air bath is also recommended.
Enjoy your conversation in a low voice.
When bathing with friends or family, I try to keep the volume of my voice down so that others can relax. In a quiet bathhouse, it's best to keep conversations short to ensure a pleasant experience.
After your bath, drink some water and rest.
After a hot spring bath, your body will be warm. It's best to rehydrate and rest before heading out for a meal or to travel.
The process of taking a hot spring bath for the first time
- I took off my clothes in the changing room and put away my belongings.
Use lockers or baskets. Check if you can leave your valuables in a locker with a lock or at the front desk. - Rinse your body in the washing area
Use a chair and a basin to prevent water from splashing too much around. Lightly rinse the area you used before leaving. - Enter the bathtub quietly
Do not put your towel in the water, and do not swim or dive. If it's too hot, don't push yourself and get out after a short time. - I'll dry myself off and then go back to the changing room.
Lightly drying yourself in the bath area will help prevent the changing room floor from getting wet. Don't forget to rehydrate after your bath.
FAQ
Do you wear a swimsuit in hot springs?
Swimsuits are not required in typical public baths. Spas and mixed-gender bathing facilities that require swimsuits will have separate signs. Please check the signs at the facility.
What should I do if I have tattoos?
The procedures vary depending on the facility. It's best to check the official information beforehand to see if cover seals or private baths are available.
What are some things to keep in mind when taking children to a hot spring?
We'll tell them beforehand not to run, swim, or make noise in the bath. Since there's some hot water, it's best to take short breaks while so it's safe.
What you'll learn in this article
Suitable for
For those unfamiliar with Japanese hot spring culture, this guide provides an introduction to hot spring etiquette, outlining the pre- and post-bathing procedures and tips for a pleasant experience.
Pre-booking check
Checking the rules regarding bathing, clothing, photography, tattoos, and health management beforehand will help you avoid getting lost once you arrive.
How to enjoy yourself there
When you consider how to enjoy the hot springs safely after learning the rules, it becomes easier to incorporate the article's content into your travel itinerary.
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温泉マナーを知っておくと、大浴場や露天風呂、外湯めぐりを気持ちよく楽しめます。宿ごとの浴場の使い方も事前に確認しておくと安心です。
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