Japan Onsen Etiquette: Should Your Hair Touch the Water? What About Towels?

Many travelers visiting Japan wonder, “Can my hair go into the hot spring water?” or “Where am I supposed to put my towel?” Japanese onsens follow unique bathing rules, and not knowing them can accidentally make others uncomfortable.

This guide explains how to manage your hair properly, where to place your towel, and other easy-to-miss onsen etiquette points. From tying long hair to towel manners and sauna rules, you’ll learn everything you need to enjoy your first onsen visit with confidence.

Is It Okay to Let Your Hair Touch the Water? Understanding Essential Onsen Etiquette

In Japanese onsens, the basic rule is to keep your hair out of the hot spring water. This tradition comes from a long-standing culture of hygiene and consideration for others. When many people share the same bath, hair—especially long hair—can introduce dirt, oils, or hair products into the water.

Ryokan staff and onsen facilities often remind guests to “tie up your hair.” A simple hair tie is enough. Learning this basic hair etiquette not only keeps the bath clean but also shows respect for Japanese bathing customs.

A Guide to Managing Long Hair: Tips for Hair Ties and Headbands

Tying up long hair is an important part of onsen etiquette. If you enter the bath with loose hair, it may touch the water and cause hygiene issues. That’s why many facilities recommend using a hair tie or headband before entering the bath area.

Tie your hair gently—tight knots aren’t necessary. Silicone hair ties work well as they stay secure even when wet. Some people cover their hair with a towel, but be careful not to let the towel fall into the bath. With proper hair care, you’ll feel more comfortable and show courtesy to other guests.

Why Towels Should Stay Out of the Bath: Proper Onsen Towel Placement

One of the most important onsen rules is: “Do not put your towel in the water.” Towels can carry soap, sweat, or bacteria, which can contaminate the shared bath. That’s why many facilities clearly warn guests not to soak towels in the hot spring.

During bathing, most people place the small towel on their head or hold it without letting it touch the water. If you prefer to cover your body, keep the towel above the bathwater and leave it on your bucket or shelf before entering the tub. Understanding proper towel placement helps maintain cleanliness and ensures a pleasant onsen experience.

How to Carry Your Towel and Cover Your Body From the Changing Room to the Bath

Japanese onsens have their own customs for how to carry a towel when walking from the changing area to the bath. Many people lightly hold a small towel in front of their body for modesty, but entering the bath wrapped in a large bath towel is uncommon.

Hold your towel in a way that keeps it away from the water, and once you reach the washing area, place it on your bucket or shelf. Understanding these modesty practices helps visitors blend in and enjoy the onsen comfortably without drawing attention.

How to Use Showers and Rinsing Buckets: Key Points of Onsen Courtesy

One of the most important steps in onsen etiquette is rinsing your body before entering the bath. Sit on a stool and wash yourself thoroughly with the shower. Standing can cause water to splash onto others, so it’s discouraged.

The rinsing process helps your body adjust to the water temperature. Pouring a few buckets of warm water over your body is enough—there’s no need to wash your head here. Paying attention to shower direction and keeping soap from splashing others shows consideration and helps everyone enjoy the bath peacefully.

Sauna and Cold Bath Etiquette: Proper Hair and Towel Use

Saunas and cold baths in Japan also follow specific manners. In the sauna, tie your hair up to prevent sweat from dripping and avoid placing towels directly on shared surfaces unless you wipe them afterward. Facilities may have additional rules depending on humidity and heat levels.

When entering the cold bath, keep your hair out of the water and never bring your towel into the tub. Alternating between sauna and cold bath is a popular routine, but understanding the etiquette ensures a smooth and respectful experience for everyone.

Can You Wear Makeup or Use Hair Products in an Onsen?

The basic rule in Japanese onsens is to remove makeup and avoid bringing personal hair products into the bath. Because the hot spring water is shared, maintaining cleanliness is essential. Many facilities highlight these rules clearly to preserve water quality.

Using cleanser or shampoo at the washing station is fine, but make sure everything is rinsed off before entering the bath. One common mistake is leaving conditioner or hair treatment on—this can contaminate the water. Following these simple rules helps protect your skin and ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.

Summary

Japanese onsens emphasize cleanliness and respect for others. Rules such as keeping hair out of the water and not soaking towels may seem detailed at first, but once you understand the reasons, they’re easy to follow and make your visit far more enjoyable.

To explore more Japanese customs, check out our guides on shrine etiquette, dining manners, and other cultural practices that can enrich your travel experience.