How to Use an Onsen in Japan Guide (for Shy People)

Wondering how to use an onsen in Japan and what rules you need to follow?

Soaking in an onsen is one of the most relaxing and memorable experiences you can have in Japan– but if it’s your first time, it can also feel a little intimidating (it definitely was for me!). 

From bathing rules and nudity with strangers (!!!) to unspoken etiquette, it’s easy to wonder if you’re going to do something wrong. The good news? Using an onsen in Japan is much simpler than it looks. 

This guide walks you through exactly what an onsen is, how to use an onsen step by step, the benefits of soaking in hot springs, and how to feel confident and comfortable your very first time. It’s the guide I wish I had before I went to Japan.

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What Is an Onsen?

An onsen is a natural hot spring bath, often rich in minerals.

For centuries, Japanese people have used onsens not just for bathing but for healing, relaxation, and even spiritual renewal in a place where families, friends, and even business partners connect in a relaxed setting.

Bathing is seen as a communal activity (more on that in a sec), and the emphasis is always on harmony and respect. That’s why following etiquette is so important and what makes it less intimidating for a first-timer.

Onsen Benefits

Onsen benefits include stress relief, muscle relaxation, improved circulation, softer skin, and faster recovery from travel fatigue through soaking in mineral-rich hot spring water. And after one soak, you’ll understand why people (like me) plan entire trips around them. 

Soaking in an onsen isn’t just relaxing, it’s genuinely good for your body and your mind. For me, the biggest benefit of a Japanese onsen is mindfulness.

Onsens are intentionally quiet, phone-free spaces. The ritual of washing, soaking, and slowing down encourages you to be present, which is something many of us don’t get enough of while traveling– or in our everyday life.

Using an onsen in Japan taught me how to take care of myself and treat myself and my body a bit better. It taught me to look less at my imperfections and more at what my body can do. Hopefully it can do that for you too.

Onsen Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

If you only remember one thing, let it be this: onsens are for soaking, not washing.

Do’s:

• Wash yourself and rinse thoroughly before entering.
• Enter slowly and quietly.
• Tie up long hair to keep it out of the water.
• Bring a small towel for modesty (but keep it out of the bath).

Don’ts:

• Don’t wear swimsuits—onsens are enjoyed nude (yes, I said nude with strangers 😬)
• Don’t dive, splash, or swim.
• Don’t take photos.
• Don’t soak with soap or shampoo still on your body.

👋 Hey! Historically linked to the yakuza, tattoos are still taboo in some onsens. Many are more relaxed now, but check ahead. Or visit Kinosaki Onsen where they are allowed at all 7 onsen in town.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Onsen

If you’re nervous about visiting your first onsen, here’s the play-by-play:

1. Store your shoes near the onsen entrance, pay the fee, and get 1 big towel and 1 small one.  
2. Head to the locker room according to your sex- women usually has a red curtain but ask if you’re not sure. 
3. Change out of your yukata in the locker area and store your things. Bring only your small towel and locker key with you to the shower station. Yes, this is scary but you can do it, I promise.
4. Wash thoroughly at the shower stations or just do a thorough rinse if you’ve recently showered. There is usually shampoo and soap in the shower station for you to use or you can bring your own. Rinse completely and put your hair up so it stays out of the bath.
5. Enter the water slowly– it’s really hot, usually 100–108°F (38–42°C)– but not with your small towel. Either lay it to the side or put it on your head.
6. Soak and relax. Try alternating between hot baths and cooler air. I noticed locals only soaked about 15 minutes in the hot bath before getting out.
7. Leave quietly, wipe off with the small towel so you don’t drip, and return to the locker room.
8. Dry off completely with the big towel. Then use the area to dry your hair, put on makeup, etc. and change back into your clothing.
9. Stay hydrated afterward with water or green tea– there are usually vending machines and a place to recuperate after your soak. Strawberry milk is a big post-soak treat.

👋 Hey! Shy like me? The locals are completely unselfconscious and really inspired me not to be either– well, mostly anyway. After a few times, it gets easier and onsen hopping ended up being one of my favorite things about visiting Japan. If I can do it, so can you!

Different Types of Onsen Experiences

Not all onsens are the same! Here are a few you might encounter:

• Rotenburo (open-air baths): Surrounded by nature– snow, rivers, mountains.  The ultimate onsen worth seeking out.
• Ryokan Onsen: Traditional inns offering multi-course kaiseki meals and tatami rooms.
• Day-Use Onsens: Great for travelers short on time.
• Onsen Theme Parks: Quirky, family-friendly onsens like Oedo Onsen in Tokyo.
• Sand or Mud Baths: Found in Beppu, where you’re buried in warm volcanic sand.

Onsen Tips for First-Timers

• If you’re shy 🙋‍♀️, start with a private onsen room at your ryokan.
• Using rotenburo in winter is magical– soaking outside while snow falls around you is unforgettable.
• Don’t wear jewelry; minerals can tarnish it.
• Bring cash– many small onsens don’t accept cards.
• If you’re intimidated, try to go when the onsen is less crowded. You can sometimes find this on Google Maps- or ask at your hotel.

Best Onsen Towns in Japan

There are towns and small villages completely centered on the onsen experience and the Japanese have been traveling to them for hundreds of years for all the benefits they offer. 

Hakone (near Tokyo)

Near Tokyo, this is perfect for first-timers, with stunning Mt. Fuji views and luxury ryokan.

Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo) ❤️

A charming town where you can stroll between seven public bathhouses in your yukata and geta.  I absolutely love Kinosaki-onsen! And it’s an easy trip from Kyoto or Osaka. 

♨️ Check out my post on Kinosaki Onsen– a tranquil town that’s all about taking the waters.

Kusatsu (Gunma Prefecture)

Known for some of the hottest and most mineral-rich waters, located near Nagano.

Beppu (Kyushu)

Home to eight “hells” (jigoku) with quirky mud, steam, and sand baths on Kyushu Island in the south.

Noboribetsu (Hokkaido)

Volcanic landscapes and dramatic, sulfur-rich baths in northern Japan.

🚇 Check out my post on Touring Japan by Train for more info about how to get around.

Where to Stay: Ryokan & Onsen Hotels

The best way to really experience a onsen is by staying in a traditional inn called ryokan. Here you’ll experience all the best of Japanese culture– from kaiseki dinners to the quiet, impeccable service.

Hakone

• Gora Kadan: A luxury ryokan with private open-air baths.
• Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu: Modern with incredible mountain views.

Kinosaki Onsen

• Nishimuraya Honkan: A traditional ryokan that includes access to all seven bathhouses.
• Onishiya Suishoen: More budget-friendly with excellent hospitality.

👉 Check here to book Nishimuraya Honkan for your stay in Kinosaki Onsen.

Beppu

• Kannawaen: Luxury ryokan with private open-air baths.
• Suginoi Hotel: Family-friendly with a massive rooftop infinity onsen.

Other Things to Do Near Onsen Towns

Because you can’t soak all day (tempting as it is), here’s what to add to your itinerary:

• Hakone: Hakone Open-Air Museum, Lake Ashi boat rides.
• Kusatsu: Watch the hot spring “yumomi” water-stirring performance.
• Beppu: Try a jigoku-mushi meal—steam-cooked in hot spring vapors.
• Kinosaki: Stroll along willow-lined canals and enjoy snow crab meals in winter or the beach in summer.
• Noboribetsu: Hike through “Hell Valley” (Jigokudani).

Onsen FAQ

Still have Questions? 🤔
Get in touch and I’ll do my best to answer them!

Final Thoughts: Using an Onsen in Japan

Using an onsen in Japan is one of the most magical cultural experiences you can have. Sure, the rules might feel intimidating, but once you settle in, the stress (and the fact that you’re naked with strangers) melts away.

Whether you’re soaking outdoors under the snow in Hokkaido or hopping between bathhouses in Kinosaki, onsens are the perfect way to relax after sightseeing.

So don’t skip it– your Japan trip isn’t complete without a long soak in an onsen.

Ready to start planning your trip to Japan?
Whether you need help figuring out an itinerary, finding the best places to stay, or have questions about local customs, I have resources to help. Check out my Travel Help Page for ways I can support you. 
Happy travels!