Do I really have to be completely naked?

Yes, complete nudity is mandatory in all onsen bathing areas. This is a non-negotiable cultural rule that applies to everyone, including foreigners.

What if I have tattoos?

Many onsen ban tattoos entirely, while others allow small ones that can be covered with patches. Research the specific onsen's tattoo policy before visiting, as this varies widely by location.

Can I bring my own towels?

Yes, you can bring your own small towel for modesty and a larger towel for drying off afterward. The small towel should be washcloth-sized, not a full bath towel.

Do they provide toiletries?

Most onsen provide basic shampoo, conditioner, and body soap, but quality and availability vary. Bringing your own ensures you have products you're comfortable with.

What about glasses or contact lenses?

You can wear glasses in onsen, though they may fog up. Contact lenses are generally fine, but bring a case in case you need to remove them due to steam or splashing.

What to wear at onsen (hot springs) in Japan

You wear nothing in the bathing areas of Japanese onsen — complete nudity is required. Before entering the baths, you'll need a small towel for modesty while walking around, and you should bring toiletries for the mandatory pre-soak wash.

Understand the nudity requirement. Japanese onsen require complete nudity in all bathing areas. No swimwear, underwear, or clothing of any kind is allowed in the hot spring baths. This is a strict cultural rule with no exceptions.
Bring a small towel. Pack or rent a small washcloth-sized towel (called a tenugui). Use this to cover yourself while walking between washing stations and baths. Never let this towel touch the hot spring water — place it on your head or the edge of the bath.
Pack basic toiletries. Bring shampoo, conditioner, and body soap for the mandatory pre-bath washing. Many onsen provide these, but having your own ensures you have what you prefer. Skip makeup and jewelry — you'll be washing everything off anyway.
Choose appropriate arrival clothing. Wear comfortable, loose clothing to the onsen that's easy to remove and put back on. Avoid complicated outfits with many layers, belts, or accessories. You'll be changing in and out of these clothes multiple times.
Consider hair accessories. If you have long hair, bring a hair tie to keep it out of the water. Hair should never touch the hot spring water, so you'll need to tie it up or use the provided hair ties.

Do I really have to be completely naked?: Yes, complete nudity is mandatory in all onsen bathing areas. This is a non-negotiable cultural rule that applies to everyone, including foreigners.
What if I have tattoos?: Many onsen ban tattoos entirely, while others allow small ones that can be covered with patches. Research the specific onsen's tattoo policy before visiting, as this varies widely by location.
Can I bring my own towels?: Yes, you can bring your own small towel for modesty and a larger towel for drying off afterward. The small towel should be washcloth-sized, not a full bath towel.
Do they provide toiletries?: Most onsen provide basic shampoo, conditioner, and body soap, but quality and availability vary. Bringing your own ensures you have products you're comfortable with.
What about glasses or contact lenses?: You can wear glasses in onsen, though they may fog up. Contact lenses are generally fine, but bring a case in case you need to remove them due to steam or splashing.