Onsen Guide: How to Use Japanese Hot Springs

Last reviewed: October 27, 2026 · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.

Japan's volcanic geology gives it thousands of hot springs. Bathing in an onsen is one of the most relaxing things you can do on a trip — once you know the routine.

Types of baths

• Onsen: baths using natural geothermal spring water.
• Sento: neighbourhood public bathhouses using heated tap water.
• Super sento / spa complexes: large facilities with many baths, saunas and relaxation areas.
• Rotenburo: outdoor baths.
• Kashikiri / private baths: reservable family or couple baths.

Step-by-step etiquette

1. Remove shoes at the entrance. Baths are usually separated by gender: 男 (men, often blue curtain) and 女 (women, often red curtain).
2. Undress completely in the changing room and put clothes in a basket or locker. Swimsuits are not worn in traditional onsen.
3. Take only your small towel into the bathing area.
4. Wash thoroughly at the shower stations, sitting on the stool. Rinse off all soap.
5. Enter the bath slowly. Keep your towel out of the water — many people fold it on their head.
6. Don't swim, splash, or put your head under the water. Keep conversation quiet.
7. Tie up long hair.
8. Dry off with your small towel before returning to the changing room.

Tattoos

Many onsen still prohibit visible tattoos because of historical associations with organised crime, though attitudes are changing. Options: look for tattoo-friendly facilities, use cover patches where allowed, or book a private bath. Policies are usually stated on the facility website.

Health and safety

• Drink water before and after bathing; hot water can cause dizziness.
• Avoid bathing after heavy drinking.
• Some springs are very acidic or hot — read posted guidance.
• People with heart conditions or who are pregnant should seek medical advice.

Famous onsen areas

• Hakone (near Tokyo) — see our Hakone guide.
• Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo) — stroll between seven public baths in yukata.
• Beppu & Yufuin (Oita) — enormous geothermal output, sand baths and the "hells".
• Kusatsu (Gunma) — famous yubatake hot-water field.
• Noboribetsu (Hokkaido) — volcanic valley and big onsen hotels.
• Arima (near Kobe) — one of Japan's oldest onsen towns.
• Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata) — wooden inns along a river, magical in snow.