Japan has its own distinct version of a hotel stay, and the onsen ryokan is the clearest example. For most Japanese travelers, the entire point of the trip is soaking in the hot spring itself, paired with the ryokan’s meals and, if it’s a proper onsen town, a walk around afterward. None of it is required, but it’s genuinely worth trying at least once to understand what a huge number of Japanese travelers are actually seeking out.
There’s a specific set of customs and etiquette that comes with it — some fairly intuitive, like washing before entering the bath, and some that catch first-timers off guard, including a well-known issue around tattoos and a very different relationship with swimwear than hot springs in other countries.
None of these customs need to be a barrier. There are ways to ease into the experience, including private, reservable bath options that sidestep most of the potential awkwardness entirely.
Medium:
Want the exact etiquette rules, the real numbers behind Japan’s tattoo policies at onsen, and how to find a private bath option? Read the complete guide on [ Medium → ]
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