Onsen & Ryokan:
The Ultimate Relaxation
Stripping naked with strangers is daunting, but it's the quintessence of Japanese culture. Here is how to do it right.
Table of Contents
01. Onsen Etiquette (Must Read)
- Undress completely: No swimsuits allowed (unless specified as a "mixed" or "swimsuit" zone).
- Wash first: Sit on the small stool and scrub yourself clean BEFORE entering the bath.
- Don't dunk your towel: Keep your small towel on your head or the side of the bath. Never in the water.
- Keep hair up: Long hair should be tied up and not touch the water.
- No splashing: It's a place for quiet relaxation.
02. What if I have Tattoos?
Traditionally, tattoos are associated with the Yakuza, so many onsens ban them. But things are changing.
- Cover it up: If it's small, use a skin-colored bandage (available at drugstores).
- Private Onsen (Kashikiri): Rent a private bath for 1 hour. No one will see you.
- Rooms with Onsen: Book a Ryokan room with its own open-air bath (Rotenburo). Expensive but luxurious.
- Tattoo-Friendly Spots: Kinosaki Onsen is famous for welcoming everyone, tattoos included.
03. The Ryokan Experience
A Ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. It's not just a hotel; it's an experience.
Tatami & Futon
You sleep on the floor on a futon mattress. It's surprisingly comfortable.
Kaiseki Dinner
An elaborate multi-course dinner served in your room or a private dining hall.
Yukata
A light cotton kimono. You wear this everywhere inside the Ryokan, even to dinner.
04. Best Onsen Towns
- Hakone
Close to Tokyo. Views of Mt. Fuji. Very tourist-friendly.
- Kinosaki Onsen
Near Kyoto. Walk around town in your Yukata visiting 7 public baths.
- Beppu
In Kyushu. The "Onsen Capital" with steaming hells (Jigoku) you can view.
Soak it up
There is nothing better than a hot bath after walking 20,000 steps in Tokyo.