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How to Enjoy Japanese-Style Hot Spring Bathing

Undress in the changing room. Bring a small towel with you into the bathing area.

Underwear and swimwear are not worn in public baths in Japan.

Wash off before getting into the bath. You can use the showers or dip a bucket into the“ Kakeyu” jar to get hot water to rinse off. Step quietly into the bath.

In Japanese public baths, people wash their hair and body in the area equipped with showers and stools, not in the bath itself. Squat or sit on a stool while washing, and be careful not to splash or spray water on the people around you.

Sit quietly and enjoy a leisurely soak. Please do not swim in the bath.

Be careful not to let your hair or towel fall into the water.

Dry off in the bathing area before returning to the changing room.

Be sure to rehydrate and take some time to relax in one of the available rest areas after dressing and leaving the bath area.

Bathing Etiquette

Individuals with tattoos will be refused admittance.

Cameras or cellphones are not permitted in the bathing area, and visitors are asked to refrain from using them in the changing room.

・Please do not save seats in the shower area or the sauna.

・Japanese baths are meant to be hot. Please do not add water to cool the bath down.

・Visitors are asked not to wash clothes in the bathing area.

・Hot baths can leave you flushed or dizzy. If you feel unwell, take a break to hydrate and cool down.* It is best not to bathe on an empty stomach or when you are feeling unwell.

・Alcohol is not allowed in the bath. Inebriated visitors will be asked to leave.

・Visitors are asked to keep their voices down and refrain from running in the bathing area.