Useful Information for Foreign Tourists in Sapporo: How to Bathe at an Onsen.
The onsen is a place to relax and enjoy a peaceful hot spring bath
1.
If you are staying at a hot springs hotel or inn, bring the towel in your guestroom with you to the bath. Some lodgings may provide towels at the bath. If it is a day spa, be sure to bring your own towel. Use a locker in the changing room to store your valuables or room key, or leave them with the front desk for safekeeping.
2.
In most usual cases, there are two completely separate baths: one for men and one for women. In the changing room, remove all of your clothes and place them in one of the baskets or lockers provided. Never take photographs in the changing room or bath.
3.
The only thing you should bring to the bathing area is a small hand towel and any personal soaps/shampoos if necessary. Keep in mind that most onsens provide soaps and shampoos in the shower areas for guests. Before getting in the bathtub, quickly wash and rinse your body off.
4.
After showering off, it is time to get into the bathtub. Make sure your hand towel never comes into contact with the bath water. Often times, people fold the hand towel and place it on top of their heads while soaking in the bath. No swimming, running, or diving is allowed. Also, do not lay on the floor or shout loudly. The customary traditions in Japan for enjoying a hot spring bath is to do so in peaceful tranquility.
5.
When you have finished soaking in the bathtub, wipe off any excess water before heading back to the changing room. This is to prevent the floor of the changing room from getting wet.
