Welcome. An onsen is a Japanese hot-spring bath.
Ease in slowly; the water may be hotter than expected. Keep the small towel and long hair out of the bath, speak softly, and do not swim or splash.
Some baths have entry restrictions or tattoo policies.
Watch what others do, follow posted instructions, and ask staff if uncertain.
These customs are not a test. Once settled, take a quiet moment with the warmth, steam and view.
The simplest lesson of the onsen is consideration: prepare carefully, enter calmly, and leave the water ready for the next guest.
TAKE IT WITH YOU
Follow the bath’s posted rules; enter slowly and keep towels and long hair out of the water.