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Why You Shouldn’t Put Towels in the Hot Spring Water
In Japan, placing your towel in the hot spring bath is considered poor etiquette. The main reason is hygiene. Towels used to wash your body often carry soap residue and body oils, which can dirty the shared bathwater. Many Japanese people see onsen as sacred and pure spaces, and avoiding towel contact with the water is a way to show respect for other bathers. It’s common to place your towel on the side of the bath or rest it on your head. Follow this important rule to help keep the onsen clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Placing a Towel on Your Head Is a Traditional Japanese Practice
You might have seen people with small towels on their heads while soaking in an onsen. This isn’t just for looks—it’s a practical way to avoid putting the towel in the water. Some people even cool the towel with cold water to help prevent dizziness from the heat. It’s a smart tip commonly used by experienced bathers in Japan. Plus, placing the towel on your head keeps your hands free and prevents it from accidentally falling into the water. By adopting this custom, you show respect for Japanese culture and blend in with local bathers.
Types of Towels Used in Japanese Onsens
At Japanese hot springs, two types of towels are typically used. A small towel, known as a hand towel, is brought into the bathing area and used to wash your body or cover yourself while walking. A larger bath towel is used only in the changing room for drying off after bathing. It’s not customary to bring the large towel into the bathing area. Keep the small towel with you, but be careful not to let it touch the bathwater. Preparing both towels in advance helps ensure a smooth and comfortable onsen experience. Many hotels and ryokan offer towel rentals or sales, so check in advance if needed.
Is It Okay to Cover Yourself with a Towel?
In Japanese onsen, it’s perfectly acceptable to use a small towel to cover yourself while moving through the bath area. Many people do this to maintain modesty. However, once you step into the bath, it’s expected that you remove the towel. Keeping it on in the bath is considered inconsiderate, especially in crowded facilities. Observing how others behave and following their lead is the best approach. While you don’t need to act exactly like a local, showing cultural awareness and sensitivity is highly appreciated in Japan’s bathing culture.
Each Onsen Has Its Own Rules
Not all hot springs in Japan follow the same rules. Some facilities may have specific guidelines about tattoos, towel usage, or showering procedures. For example, certain upscale ryokan allow guests to bring large towels into the bath. Always check the signage at the entrance or dressing room for posted rules. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask the staff. Japanese hospitality is well-known, and staff are usually happy to explain. For international visitors, it’s a good idea to do a bit of research ahead of time to avoid surprises.
Wash Your Body Thoroughly Before Entering the Bath
Before entering the hot spring, you are expected to wash your body thoroughly. This is not just polite—it’s essential for hygiene. Use a small towel to scrub your body and rinse off all soap and shampoo completely. Clean water means a more pleasant experience for everyone. Skipping this step is seen as disrespectful and could result in being asked to leave. Taking the time to clean yourself beforehand is one of the most important rules of onsen culture and ensures a relaxing experience for you and others.
Where Should You Put Your Towel While Bathing?
Pay attention to where you place your towel during your bath. Don’t leave it on the edge of the tub where it could fall in. Instead, place it on a nearby shelf, on top of your personal belongings, or even on your head. Some facilities have hooks or designated towel racks. A little care goes a long way in showing respect to others. Handle your towel neatly and treat it with the same consideration you would expect from fellow bathers. This attention to detail is part of what makes the onsen experience special.
How Many Towels Should You Bring to an Onsen?
When visiting an onsen, it’s best to bring one hand towel and one bath towel. While many places offer rentals or towels for sale, using your own clean towels adds peace of mind. Quick-drying and lightweight towels are especially handy for travelers. If you’re planning to visit multiple hot springs in one day, bring a spare hand towel. After use, place wet towels in a plastic bag to keep your belongings dry. Being prepared ensures a smooth, stress-free visit.
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Towel Etiquette for Mixed-Gender Baths
Some traditional hot springs in Japan offer mixed-gender bathing. In these cases, women may be allowed to wear special bathing garments or wrap a large towel around themselves—but this depends on the specific facility. Men usually follow standard etiquette without extra coverings. Be sure to check each onsen’s website or signs for rules regarding mixed bathing. Even as a foreign guest, you are expected to follow the same rules, so respectful behavior is key. When in doubt, ask the staff.
Onsen Etiquette Tips for Foreign Visitors
To fully enjoy Japan’s hot springs, understanding towel etiquette is essential. Avoid putting your towel in the water, wash before entering, and be considerate of others. Even if Japanese customs differ from your own, showing respect for local rules will earn appreciation. Onsen are more than just places to relax—they’re cultural experiences. Follow proper manners, and you’ll not only have a great time, but also connect more deeply with Japanese traditions.
