How to take a Japanese Onsen

A soak in a natural hot spring bath is one of the joys of any trip to Japan, and Snow Country has a wonderful selection of onsen. If you've never had one before it can be a bit of an intimidating experience, which is why we thought this poster was a great idea.

It gives you all the main points to be able to enjoy a relaxing bath.

1 - Rinse yourself off first
2 - Relax yourself in the bathtub
3 - Scrub with soap outside the bathtub
4 - Enjoy another good soak in the hot water

- Please do not take a bath with your underwear on
- Please rinse off all soapsuds before entering the bathtub.

The bottom two are pretty important and if you follow those you can't really go wrong. The bath is taken naked and you should wash off completely before getting into the water. That way the water stays clean and everybody can enjoy it.

There are a few extra pointers about Etiquette.

- Do not put your hand towel in the bath water
(You will see many Japanese people leave it on the side of the bath or put it on their head while they are soaking away.)
- Washing of clothes is not allowed
- Do not jump in or swim in the bath
- Do not bring food or drink into the bath

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Some onsen also do not allow tattoos but you will have to check with each one about their policy.

It is a highly recommended experience so do try to make the time to visit one while you are in Snow Country.