As you may know, Japan has some of the best onsen (hot springs) in the world. From ancient times, onsen have been used for relaxation and medical care. No one visiting Japan should miss the opportunity to visit one, and, as the season changes from autumn to winter, the best season of the year to enjoy onsen has arrived.

You might think that hot water is just hot water; isn’t it the same everywhere? Believe it or not, the answer is no, as the quality can differ. Many onsen aficionados visit springs around the country to compare the different qualities.But there is so much more to enjoy than just soaking your body!

In this edition, we highlight the different types of onsen and introduce both traditional and modern onsen ryokans (Japanese-style inns) and their facilities. Hopefully you will discover why the Japanese love onsen so much.

Onsen ryokan (Japanese-style hot spring inn)
As mentioned above, onsen can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. You can just drop by a hot spring spa and enjoy a soak for an hour or so. If you buy onsen bath salts as a souvenir, you can try them at home or even in your hotel and reproduce the relaxation of the spa. However, if you have come all the way to Japan, it’s worth staying overnight at an onsen ryokan.　In addition to the waters, guests at ryokan enjoy gourmet meals, beautiful views and traditional architecture.

Onsen Tips:

1. Do not enter an onsen bath with your underwear on.
Take off all your clothes in the changing room. Swimsuits are usually not permitted. (Men and women use separate onsens and changing rooms.)
2. You may wrap yourself in a tenugui (Japanese towel) or small towel before entering the bathroom, but you are expected to remove the towel before entering the water. (The onsen facility usually provides a towel if you wish, but there may be a small charge.)
3. Wash before entering the onsen bath.
Faucets (as well as soap) are usually located next to the onsen.
4. Relax in the onsen for about 10 - 20 minutes.
Do not enter an onsen after drinking alcohol.
5. Dry off before returning to the changing room.

Notes: Some onsen facilities require initial registration. You may need to show your passport or other ID. People with tattoos may not be allowed in the onsen.

Published 2007/04/18