[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||-50px||false|false” custom_padding=”2px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n
If you’ve ever seen pictures of Japan with mountains, steam rising from the water, and people relaxing in silence, you were probably looking at an onsen.. But what at first glance appears to be a hot bath is, in reality, one of the most authentic and profound experiences of Japanese culture.<\/span><\/p>\n Los <\/span>onsen en Jap\u00f3n<\/b> They’re not just places to relax: they represent tradition, a connection with nature, and, for many Japanese people, an almost spiritual experience. Understanding what an onsen is and how to experience it properly completely changes the way you experience Japan. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_cta title=”Can you imagine enjoying an onsen as part of your life in Japan?” button_url=”https:\/\/dokidokijapan.com\/en\/living-in-japan\/” button_text=”Living in Japan” button_text_tablet=”Living in Japan” button_text_phone=”Living in Japan” button_text_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h3″ header_font=”Fredoka One||||||||” header_text_align=”justify” header_font_size=”18px” body_font_size=”15px” background_color=”#e02b20″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”18px” button_text_color=”#000000″ button_bg_color=”#FFFFFF” button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”25px” button_font=”|700|||||||” min_height=”193px” custom_margin=”||30px||false|false” border_radii=”on|20px|20px|20px|20px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n At Doki Doki Japan we help you take the step: learn the language, prepare yourself and live authentic experiences like onsen as part of your daily life.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_cta][et_pb_heading title=”What is an onsen in Japan? Meaning and origin ” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”23px” custom_margin=”||-2px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n An onsen <\/span>(\u6e29\u6cc9)<\/b> It is a natural hot spring of volcanic origin whose hot waters emerge from the subsoil and contain minerals beneficial to the body. Japan, being a country with high volcanic activity, has thousands of these baths scattered throughout the territory. <\/span><\/p>\n But onsen is not just hot water: it is an ancient tradition deeply rooted in Japanese culture, linked to well-being, purification and rest.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”What differentiates an onsen from a public restroom (sento)?” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n This is where many people get confused.<\/span><\/p>\n The sento is more urban and functional, while the onsen is an experience more linked to nature, ritual and well-being.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Why is hot spring water so important in Japan?” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n The water in onsen contains minerals such as sulfur, iron, or sodium, which are traditionally associated with health benefits, from improving skin to relieving muscle pain.<\/span><\/p>\n But beyond the physical, the value of the onsen is also cultural: since ancient times, bathing has been linked to spiritual purification in Japan.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”The experience of going to an onsen in Japan” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”23px” custom_margin=”||1px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_heading title=”How an onsen works step by step” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Going to an onsen has its ritual, and that’s part of the magic:<\/span><\/p>\n It is important to understand that the onsen is not for “washing,” but for relaxing and disconnecting.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Basic etiquette rules you should know” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Respect is key in an onsen. Some essential rules: <\/span><\/p>\n This set of rules helps to maintain the calm and respectful environment that characterizes onsen.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Why is it considered an almost spiritual experience?” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n For many Japanese people, the onsen is a moment of total disconnection. There are no cell phones, no noise, no rush. Just you, the water, and your surroundings. <\/span><\/p>\n This combination of silence, nature, and tradition creates a profound sense of calm that transcends the physical. It’s a mental “reset” experience. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Types of onsen in Japan” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”23px” custom_margin=”||1px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_heading title=”Outdoor onsen (rotenburo)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n The rotenburo are probably the most iconic: outdoor toilets surrounded by nature.<\/p>\n Imagine immersing yourself in hot water while it’s snowing or surrounded by mountains. It’s one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Japan. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Onsen en ryokan (alojamientos tradicionales)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Many ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) include an onsen. Here the experience is more complete: tatami mats, yukata, Japanese dinner\u2026 and a hot spring bath. <\/span><\/p>\n It’s the most authentic way to integrate the onsen into your trip.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Modern and urban onsen” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n There are also onsen in cities, even in Tokyo. They are more accessible, modern, and adapted to the urban pace, but they maintain the essence of the ritual. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Benefits of onsen for the body and mind” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”23px” custom_margin=”||1px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_heading title=”Mineral properties of water” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Japanese hot springs contain minerals that can:<\/span><\/p>\n It is no coincidence that they have been used as a natural treatment for centuries.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Relaxation, health and well-being” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Beyond the physical aspect, the greatest benefit is mental.<\/span><\/p>\n Immersing yourself in an onsen means stopping, breathing, and disconnecting. In today’s fast-paced society, that has enormous value. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Tips for enjoying your first onsen in Japan You don’t need much:<\/span><\/p>\n Small towel The simpler, the better.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Useful expressions and words in an onsen” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Here’s the important part if you want to move around like someone who understands Japan:<\/span><\/p>\n These words help you understand signs, communicate, and feel more comfortable.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”What to do if you have tattoos” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Traditionally, tattoos have been associated with the yakuza, so some onsen prohibit them.<\/span><\/p>\n Opciones:<\/span><\/p>\n There is increasing flexibility, especially in tourist areas.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Best times to avoid crowds” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n This way you can enjoy a more peaceful and authentic experience.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Experience Japan beyond tourism” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”23px” custom_margin=”||1px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Visiting an onsen is not just “doing something typical”, it’s understanding how the Japanese experience rest, nature and balance.<\/span><\/p>\n When you immerse yourself in an onsen, you’re participating in a centuries-old tradition. And that completely changes your perspective on Japan. <\/span><\/p>\n At Doki Doki Japan we always say the same thing: Japan is not understood just by visiting temples or cities\u2026 it is understood by living experiences like this.<\/p>\n If you want to go beyond tourism and truly connect with the country, the onsen is one of those moments that changes everything.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" If you’ve ever seen pictures of Japan with mountains, steam rising from the water, and people relaxing in silence, you were probably looking at an onsen.. But what at first glance appears to be a hot bath is, in reality, one of the most authentic and profound experiences of Japanese culture. Los onsen en Jap\u00f3n […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":987516450,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","content-type":"","_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[24,27,26,25],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-987516487","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","category-culture","category-japanese","category-study-in-japan"],"yoast_head":"\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”23px” custom_margin=”||1px|||” custom_padding=”|0px|0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_heading title=”What to pack (and what not to pack)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ title_font_size=”20px” custom_margin=”||-1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n
Toiletries (although many onsen provide them)
Swimsuit (not usually used)<\/p>\n\n
\n
\n