The Onsen: Japanese Hot Springs (And Full Frontal Nudity)

If there is one thing I try to do in each country I visit, it’s get naked in public (and eat at a McDonald’s).

This task can be accomplished in Japan with relative ease (and without pesky legal fallout). Thanks to the country’s geological makeup (a chain of volcanic islands), naturally occurring hot springs (or onsens (温泉) to the Japanese) provide a relaxing space for people to get naked and bathe together. Ironically, these same onsens gave rise to Godzilla – fun fact.

Onsens come in a variety of flavors and depending on the members of your party, your level of comfort seeing naked people, your level of comfort being seen naked by people, and the weather. You can choose indoors or outdoors and mixed or segregated (sexes).

I would suggest an outdoor onsen, as the indoor variety is reminiscent of a gym locker room (and I am permanently scarred from the things I have seen in these places). However, ensure you know the deal at your particular onsen before getting into your birthday suit and strutting about the grounds.

How To Not Embarrass Yourself

The following guidelines will help you avoid embarrassing yourself whilst enjoying an onsen in Japan.

1. Remember that you are in Japan, and removing your shoes will likely be required before entering the dressing room, bathroom, or office.
2. You are not permitted to wear swimwear in most onsens. You will be getting naked and will have only a towel to hide your shame from hungry onlookers.
3. You may bring your own towel or rent one (for a modest fee) at the onsen (note that the towels are small (hand towel size), so leave your Finding Nemo beach towel at home)
4. Be wary of any tattoos that you have. In Japan, tattoos are associated with the Yakuza, and you may be denied entry or asked to leave should you reveal your body’s sinister markings.
5. Shower before getting into the onsen, and clean yourself well.
6. Cover yourself with your towel as you walk about. The Japanese do this, so I figure that it is the polite thing to do.
7. Many people fold their towels and wear them atop their heads. Do this if you want to look silly for wearing a towel on your head but cool for knowing what you are doing.

Onsens come highly recommended by the locals, and for good reason. Whether you need to relax after a day of climbing volcanoes, clear your mind before a night of karaoke, or want to hang out with some naked Japanese people, there is no better way to do it than with a scalding hot onsen (yes, they are incredibly hot).

Be sure to drink plenty of water!