Simple 10 rules for Onsen in Japan
Fan of Onsen?
As of 2012, Japan has 110 active volcanos which makes the country "Onsen rich".
Hot springs contribute to your health by improve blood circulation, helps to detox, improve your skin conditions, retain body heat, and so many to go on.
To fully enjoy the benefit, there are some rules that you should keep in mind.
There are only 10 simple rules. They are no cricket, so relax.
1. GO NAKED, NO SWIMSUITS.
You can't wear swimsuits in Onsen nor go inside bathtub wearing a towel.
Why? To keep it clean.
Don't be shy! Everyone does it!
(Bring hand towel to cover if it's long enough.)
And there may be private baths available, if you still feel insecure.
2. WASH YOUR "IT" FIRST BEFORE ENTERING.
Lightly wash your body first, especially the lower area.
Then, soak for a while.
Get out the bathtub and scrub with soap.
Get back to the bath and enjoy as long as you want.
3. NO WASHING INSIDE THE BATHTUB.
As mentioned before, you need keep Onsen clean.
So No washing inside the bathtub.
4. NO DRINKING, OR DON'T ENTER WHEN DRUNK.
This is to keep "YOU" safe.
Temperature of Onsen is around 40C (104F). If you don't want to be carried by paramedic naked, just remember this.
5. NO SWIMMING.
Even if the bathtub is wide and open, do not swim.
I know, because I'd want to, but I won't.
6. NO RUNNING.
The floor is slippery because of Onsen ingredients, so don't run.
7. DO NOT PUT YOUR TOWEL INSIDE THE BATH.
To keep the bath clean, and not to drain the water.
Put your towel on the edge of the tub or on your head.
8. WATCH YOURSELF WHILE WASHING OR SHOWERING.
You should watch yourself if you are not splashing water to others while washing or showering.
9. WIPE BEFORE GO IN LOCKER ROOM.
Just lightly wipe your body with your hand towel.
Your hand towel should be wet, so you don't have to worry too much.
10. NO TATTOOS. (Optional)
At some Onsen, you can't enter if you've got a tattoo.
This is because majority of tattooed people is Japanese mafia and Yakuza's are not welcomed not only Onsen but also in many places.
No mafia? I know. It is well understood to get tattoos in many countries.
That's what's called "cultural difference".
As numbers of tourists toward Japan expands each year, more of Onsen facilities are becoming "mild-tempered" about tattoos.
So, watch out for signs "NO TATTOS", you are highly unlikely be welcomed.
I suggest to check with online or send an e-mail to where you are about to go.
Let me summarise.
1. GO NAKED, NO SWIMSUITS.
2. WASH YOUR "IT" FIRST BEFORE ENTERING.
3. NO WASHING INSIDE THE BATHTUB.
4. NO DRINKING, OR DON'T ENTER WHEN DRUNK.
5. NO SWIMMING.
6. NO RUNNING.
7. DO NOT PUT YOUR TOWEL INSIDE THE BATH.
8. WATCH YOURSELF WHILE WASHING OR SHOWERING.
9. WIPE BEFORE GO IN LOCKER ROOM.
10. NO TATTOOS. (Optional)
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