How to Use a Japanese Onsen: Step-by-Step Guide

Curious about Japanese hot springs? Here’s how to use a Japanese onsen the right way, plus quick etiquette tips for beginners.

Visiting an onsen is one of best things to do in Japan. Imagine soaking in natural hot spring water, surrounded by mountains or snow, and feeling every bit of travel stress melt away. Sounds amazing, right?

But the idea of using a Japanese onsen can feel a little intimidating at first. Do you wear a swimsuit? How do you act once you’re inside? And what if you make a mistake?

Don’t worry. In this guide, I’ll explain everything step by step so you know exactly what to expect.

Before you soak

If this is your first onsen in Japan, you might want to learn a bit more about the culture before jumping in. These posts will help:

• What to know about onsen in Japan – the big picture of what onsens are and why they matter.
• Types of Japanese hot springs – indoor, outdoor, sand bath and more.
• Onsen benefits – why Japanese hot springs are good for you.
• Best onsen towns in Japan – still deciding where to go? Start here.

How to use a Japanese onsen: Step-by-step

Okay, now let’s walk through exactly what happens once you step inside an onsen.

If it’s your first time, don’t stress. I remember feeling a little unsure too, but once you know the flow, it’s honestly simple. Here’s how it usually goes:

1. Changing room

When you walk in, you’ll find lockers or baskets. Take off all your clothes and leave everything except the small hand towel. That’s the only thing you bring with you.

I’ll be honest. The first time feels a bit awkward, but you forget about it in minutes because everyone’s doing the same thing.

Tip: Keep jewelry in your locker. The minerals in hot spring water can tarnish it.

2. Wash up

This part is non-negotiable. Before you get near the bath, you need to wash.

You’ll see little shower stations with stools, buckets, and hand showers. Sit down, wash your whole body, and rinse really well. Soap and shampoo are always provided.

I like to take my time here. It’s almost like a reset before the soak.

3. Time to soak

Now it’s bath time. Step in slowly and carry your small towel, but don’t let it touch the water.

Most people fold it and put it on their heads. The water might feel hotter than you expect, so ease yourself in and let your body adjust.

Tip: Don’t stay in too long. Take a few minutes, then a break, and then back in. You’ll enjoy it more this way.

4. Relax and enjoy

This is the best part. Once you’re in, just sit quietly and let the heat do its job. Onsens aren’t a place for loud chatter, so keep your voice low.

Sometimes I only last five minutes, other times I stay longer, but I never push it when it feels too hot.

5. After the bath

When you’re done, step out slowly. I like to cool down for a minute before heading back to the changing room. Most people just pat themselves lightly with the small towel, and then finish drying off inside.

Tip: bring water and drink after. You’ll be surprised how much you sweat.

6. Bonus tip: repeat if you want

If you’re at a ryokan, don’t stop at one soak. I usually go again after dinner or first thing in the morning.

Quick onsen etiquette tips

I’ll keep this short so you don’t feel overloaded, but these are the basics everyone should know:

• No swimsuits – onsens are always nude.
• Wash before soaking – scrub and rinse well at the shower stations.
• Keep towels out of the water – fold the small towel and rest it on your head or the side.
• Be quiet – onsens are for relaxing, not chatting loudly.
• Tattoos – some places still restrict them, so check in advance or book a private bath.

Nothing too complicated, right? If you want the full details, check out my guide here: Onsen Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts.