Do you have to be naked in a Japanese onsen?
Yes. Public baths are bathed in fully nude, with no swimsuits, and men and women bathe separately. The small towel you carry is for washing and for modesty while walking, not for wearing in the water.
Where this answer comes from
- Bathing is done fully nude Public baths and onsen are gender-separated, and swimwear is not worn. It can feel…
- Keep your towel out of the water The bath water is shared, so anything that touches your body—including your towel—stays…
- Rinse before you soak The bath is for relaxing, not for washing. Before stepping into the tub, sit at one of…
Say it in Japanese
Show the card to the staff. The Japanese, how to read it, and the recorded voice.