- What is an Onsen
- Onsen are natural hot springs in Japan, divided into male and female sections
- Japanese word "onsen" (温泉) means hot springs
- Popular throughout East Asia, especially in Japan
- Visiting Guidelines
- Wear traditional Japanese attire and bring your own shower products
- Remove shoes and collect necessary items before entering
- Keep all belongings in lockers except small head towel
- Follow specific rules: no running, shouting, photos, or bathing suits
- Best Onsens
- Beppu Onsen offers variety of baths including steam and mud
- Hakone provides overnight stays near Tokyo with Mt. Fuji view
- Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen located at bottom of Mt. Fuji
- Noboribetsu known for health benefits and mineral content
- Arima Onsen is one of Japan's oldest traditional areas
- Sunamushi Onsen offers unique beach-buried cooking experience
- Cultural Notes
- Tattoos generally not allowed, must be covered
- Foreigners often get away with tattoos due to caretaker's discretion
- Bathing houses don't provide extended sleeping areas