Before entering the changing room, know the appropriate door (women or men). If unsure, check with someone. Leave your slippers inside the door of the changing room. Take off your shoes before stepping up onto the wooden floor. Most changing rooms have baskets or lockers available; remove and store your clothes. Take the small towel provided---your modesty towel---to cover your private areas.
Enter the bathing area. Select a stool and faucet to use. Wash off the stool with the movable shower head, and wash yourself completely before entering the onsen. Use soap and shampoo and rinse thoroughly. If others are nearby, show them (discreetly) that you are clean and rinsed.
When finished washing, use your modesty towel as you cross to the springs. Do not put the modesty towel in the water. Use it to wipe your face, or set it on the top of your head. Otherwise, leave it outside the water on a rock. Enter the water quietly. Test the temperature with your foot or hand. Some onsen are hotter than others; you may wish to sit on the side with your feet and legs submerged as you become accustomed to the temperature. Since the bathing experience is for relaxing, refrain from loud talking. Do not look at people except in the face; staring at other bathers is poor behavior. Respect the privacy and modesty of the other bathers. Soak for a short time, then go back to the faucets to rinse and cool off. You can repeat this practice several times.
Because of the mineral benefits, many people do not rinse off after the soak. Re-enter the changing area, and get dressed. Leave your towel and modesty towel in the designated receptacle. Blow-dryers and combs are often supplied in the changing area for your use. Brag to your friends; you have experienced one of the rich traditions of the Japanese people.
Some resorts or hotels may require a bathing suit---a policy you'll likely find at mixed-gender bathing onsen. If it is not required, do not wear one; other bathers will consider it dirty and a breach of etiquette.
Some onsen are located in natural settings and do not provide monitoring or dressing room facilities. Such onsen are open to the public. Use modesty and discretion when bathing in these springs. If others are already bathing, ask whether you may join them. Remember to use a modesty towel and to talk quietly, if at all. These hot springs do not charge an entry fee.
