How to use an onsen or public bath

1. 1Pay or buy a ticket, then leave your shoes in the entrance lockers.
2. 2Split by gender at the curtains (noren): 男 (often blue) is men, 女 (often red) is women. Go through the right one into the changing room.
3. 3Undress completely — no swimsuits, no underwear. Stash everything in a basket or locker. Bring only the small towel.
4. 4At the washing stations (rows of low showers and stools), sit and wash your whole body thoroughly, then rinse off every trace of soap.
5. 5Now get into the bath and soak. Keep your small towel out of the water — rest it on your head or the edge.

Heads up. Many baths refuse visible tattoos. If you have one, check ahead or look for a tattoo-friendly onsen or a private (kashikiri) bath.

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