The Onsen Experience

When I was in Matsuyama, I stayed at a Ryokan type hotel that had its own Onsen (hot springs bath).

I have written about Japanese Baths before, but I've never had a chance to take a picture. This time, I got up early and found myself alone in the onsen. So, I rushed back to my room, picked up my camera, and took some pictures.

Here is my version of how you go to an Onsen.

First, you have to figure out which side to enter. The picture above shows the entrance to the men's side. The Chinese character at the top means "man".

Once inside, you enter the dressing area. You pick a basket against the wall and remove all your clothing - think of it like gym class without the angst of the teenage years.

You pick up a towel and head to the next room. The towels are for modesty but are only the size of a dishtowel.


Once inside, you select a spot against the wall that will be your "washing area", and you pick up a bucket. You fill your bucket with water from the main pool and rinse off. Then you can soak in the pool or start to wash up. You sit on the small stools, turn on the faucet, and lather up. In this Onsen, there were dispensers for soap, shampoo, and conditioner.

You use your bucket to rinse off.


Once you are finished, you head back to the pool area. These are usually designed to to have a combination of natural features against the side. The water is very hot. When you sit down in the pool, the water comes up to your chin. I spent long enough in the pool that I felt lightheaded when I tried to stand up.

The Onsen experience may seem strange for a westerner, but it is actually quite relaxing. I would never pass up an chance to go to an Onsen.