What to Bring to an Onsen: Your Complete Checklist

Your First Onsen in Beppu? Here’s What You Need to Know

So, you’re ready to experience one of Japan’s greatest cultural treasures: a visit to a hot spring in the onsen capital, Beppu! It’s an experience you’ll never forget. But as a first-timer, you’re probably asking, “What do I need to bring to an onsen?“

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. While locals might have their own personalized kits, preparing for an onsen visit is actually very simple. This guide will give you a clear, easy-to-follow checklist of exactly what to bring, what to wear, and what to expect, so you can walk into any of the wonderful Beppu onsens with total confidence.

First Things First: What Exactly Is an Onsen?

Before we get to the packing list, let’s quickly cover the basics. The onsen definition is simple: it means warm natural spring water in Japan. But to be officially classified as an onsen, it must be naturally heated geothermal water (at least 25°C at the source) and contain at least one of 19 designated minerals.

However, to Japanese culture, an onsen is more than just a bath. It’s a place for healing, relaxation, and quiet socializing—a cherished tradition that has been valued for centuries.

What to Bring to an Onsen: Your Complete Checklist

Packing for an onsen doesn’t require a whole suitcase. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you’ll need.

The Absolute Essentials (Don’t Leave Without These!)

• Two Towels: These are the most important items in your kit.
  • 1. A large bath towel: For drying off completely after your bath. Please make sure to keep it in the changing room.
  • 2. A small towel: A thin, small towel (like a hand towel or washcloth). This is the only towel you take with you into the bathing area. You’ll use it to wash your body and can use it for a bit of modesty when walking around.
• 100-Yen Coin: Many onsen have coin-operated lockers in the changing room for your clothes and valuables. It’s always wise to have a 100-yen coin handy.
• A Change of Clothes: You’ll want a fresh, comfortable set of clothes to change into after your relaxing soak.
• Hair Tie: If you have long hair, a hair tie is essential. Your hair must be tied up and kept out of the onsen water.

Recommended Extras for Comfort & Convenience

• Basic Toiletries: Think travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and soap/body wash. While many larger onsen provide these, smaller local spots often don’t. Bringing your own is also great if you have sensitive skin or prefer certain products.
• Waterproof Bag or Pouch: A simple plastic bag or small waterproof pouch is perfect for carrying your small towel and toiletries from the changing room to the washing area.
• Post-Bath Skincare: The mineral water can do wonders for your skin, but having your own face wash, toner, and moisturizer afterward can make your experience even more comfortable.
• Hairbrush or Comb: Hairdryers are usually available for free, but brushes are not.
• Cash: For your entry fee and for a classic post-onsen drink from a vending machine!

Will My Onsen Provide Anything? (Ryokan vs. Public Onsen)

“Do I really need to bring my own towel?” It depends entirely on where you go. Here’s a quick guide:

Rule of thumb: If you are staying at a ryokan, most things are provided. But if you are visiting a small local public bath that costs just a few hundred yen, it’s best to bring everything with you.

What to Wear to an Onsen (In and Around the Bath!)

This is just as important as what you bring.

• What to Wear TO the Onsen: Simplicity is key.
  • If you’re staying at a ryokan, wear the yukata (light cotton robe) provided in your room. It’s the traditional and most convenient attire.
  • If you’re coming from your hotel, choose simple, easy-to-remove clothing. A t-shirt and loose pants or a simple dress works best. Avoid complicated outfits.
• What to Wear IN the Onsen: The answer is… nothing! You bathe completely nude in the onsen. This might feel strange at first, but it is the correct and expected custom. The baths are separated by gender, and nobody will be staring. Swimsuits are not allowed as they are considered unhygienic for the onsen water.

A Note on Etiquette: Why You Bring These Items

Your packing list is directly connected to onsen etiquette.

• The two towels are used for hygiene: the small one is for washing your body, and the large one is for drying off. This keeps the dry changing room floor separate from the wet bathing area.
• The hair tie is essential to keep hair out of the communal bathwater.
• The small towel should never touch the onsen water. After washing, you can place it on the side of the bath or, as many locals do, fold it and place it on your head.

Fully Enjoy the Famous Onsens of Beppu

Now that you know exactly what to bring and what to do, you are ready to explore the incredible variety of hot springs Beppu has to offer. From historic bamboo-roofed baths to milky, mineral-rich outdoor pools, your preparation will allow you to relax fully and soak in this wonderful piece of Japanese culture. Have a wonderful visit!

Some of the photos in this article were taken at Yamada Bessou, where you can enjoy the day-use onsen.