Backpacking Japan: How to Use an Onsen

Japanese public baths draw a lot of attention from foreigners, and are considered one of the big attractions to experience. Onsen is the Japanese term for their public baths. These are considered relaxing and inviting, a time to be enjoyed and appreciated.

If you're heading to Japan for the first time and you're staying at a resort or ryokan, the odds are you will find yourself facing an onsen bath. It may seem incredibly intimidating at first, especially if you come from a country where it is uncommon to bathe naked around each other. The customs and traditions of the onsen can be even more intimidating, and signs on what is acceptable and what is not are usually in Japanese, further adding to the frustration.

The first thing to know is that acting ashamed or embarrassed is generally found to be amusing or annoying. You shouldn't act embarrassed to be be bathing in the onsen - it is normal, and thousands of people do it every year. Hold your head high and act like you're happy to be there.

If you're female, remove your makeup before heading to the onsen. Makeup will run into the water and look funny on your face, and will also prevent the beautifying features of the water (supposed, anyway).

When you first enter the onsen, you will need to remove all of your clothing - there will be cubbies or baskets or somewhere to place them. Retrieve the small hand towel and head into the bathing area. There will be shower heads on the walls and small seats to sit on. Bath yourself thoroughly with soap, washing every inch of your body. You must take your time and show that you're thoroughly cleaning yourself. If you just splash some water on, you'll likely not be welcomed into the pool, and some may even complain.

Once you're finished showering, you can enter the onsen. Be careful because the water is hot. It is normal to fold the small hand towel and place it on your head to keep it out of the water. Enter the water slowly, and take your time. Don't quickly sink into the water or you may pass out or feel sick. Slowly over the course of a few minutes lower yourself to your neck. You should only stay in the onsen for about ten minutes, 20 at the most.