Japanese Manner Taking a bath
banzaitokyo
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8 years, 10 months ago
We already introduced you to some basic manners, when it comes to visiting someones house in Japan. In our other blogs you might have already read about Japanese Hot Springs, Onsen, or Japanese bath houses, Sento.
Bathing and hygiene is very important in Japan and a relaxing and pleasant custom. You might also want to experience a steaming hot Japanese bath, therefore you need some basic knowledge, to enjoy your Onsen-Visit at the fullest.
Your first time at an Onsen or Sento might be a bit intimidating, but getting used to it this healing and regenerating experience will become quite addictive!
The entrance of Onsen and Sento are usually marked with two curtains, blue and with the sign ? for men, red and with the sign ? for women. Sometimes accommodations switch baths the bath that is for men in the evening may be for women the next morning, so confirm the correct one before entering!
Usually you are required to take off shoes and change to slippers before entering the bath. Undress at designated changing rooms. You fully undress and just take a small towel with you into the bathing area. Swimsuits are usually not allowed. This can be a quite new experience for foreigners, but Japanese people are used to this custom. If you feel a bit insecure in the beginning, be observant. Watch the people around you so that you know what is going on.
The main points for enjoying Japanese bath are:
- Take off your clothes
- Rinse and wash your body before you take the bath
- Soak with your clean body into the bath and relax!
Always keep the bathing water separate from the washing water and be polite and courteous to other people around you!
Some other rules you should stick to while using the bath:
- Drink enough water before and after your visit to prevent yourself from dehydrating.
- Remove jewelry, accessories, watches and glasses since they can be discolored by the minerals in the water.
- If you got long hair, tie it up!
- Walk slowly through the whole facility, since the ground can be slippery.
- If the facility has no shower, use washing buckets, fill them with tap water or take water from the bath itself.
- Some Onsen and Sento offer shampoo and body soap, if you are not sure about if this service is offered, bring your own.
- Sit down on the stools provided if you are standing water can easily splash onto people next to you or into the bath!
- After you finished your washing, tidy up your space for other people using it after you. Rinse the stool and washbowl. Turn the faucet back to warm, when you took a cold shower.
- Do not put your head under the water in the bath! Do not put soap or shampoo in the bath! Do not put your towel in the bath! Dont swim in the bath!
On a different note: Sometimes people with tattoos are not allowed in communal baths because of the association between tattoos and the Japanese Yakuza mafia. If you have a tattoo, check this before you enter the facility.
Do not bring babies into the bath if there is a possibility of them urinating. Menstruating women should refrain from using communal baths.
CNN Travel gives you an overview of the best Onsen in Tokyo.
The Website Sento-Guide will help you to find a good Sento close to your hotel or accommodation.
Enjoy your hot bath!
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