I stayed at a ryoukan with an onsen last year. Access to the inn was by cable car, and the car passed over the springs, meaning that anyone riding in the car could see the people using the springs below. I got to see a few bathers, and I got to watch the cable car pass overhead while I was bathing, but it didn't bother me.

The inn where I stayed had two indoor baths, and two outdoor baths. The indoor baths are separated for male and female, while one outdoor bath rotates, you need to look at the gate to see what hours men or women are able to use it. But after 10 pm, there was no restriction, so men and women could use the bath together. The other outdoor bath was available by reservation only, and only for half-hour intervals.

Onsen etiquette is simple. When you enter, you put your clothes and such into a basket. You are given a towel and a washcloth. Most onsens require that you leave the towel in the locker area, you can only take the washcloth into the onsen with you. Near the pools you'll find faucets and stools. Some have hoses and small shower heads on them, others have just a bucket. Soap and shampoo are usually available. After thoroughly washing and rinsing yourself outside the pool, you can then climb in for a soak. You can bring your washcloth with you, but it is not permitted to touch the water. You can leave it next to the pool, or put in on the top of your head.

Good onsens have a little sulfur and other minerals in the water. It may sometimes smell a little funny, but the minerals are harmless, and they leave your skin very soft.

In the shape I am in, parading around in the buff is not top on my list of good ideas, :rolleyes: but having thoroughly enjoyed skinny dipping in lakes and pools once in a while, an onsen has great appeal.

Knowing me, it would probably fall in anyway. I'll leave it outside, thank you for the information.

Also, don't dunk your head underwater. Very bad manners.

I would looove Going to an Onsen, But i would have huge problem getting naked in front of everybody S; Thats what keeping me from never going to one, :P

been to japan?

Nakedness aside... I really don't understand the big deal about onsen in the first place. I mean you get home from a busy day at work and you take a bath... I can see how that can be relaxing. But I'd never go out of my way TO have a bath.

As for the naked thing? Well I suppose it might be a bit awkward at first.

Just another cultural thing to experience when in another country. But then, you might find you like it because the atmosphere is cool and the water, geothermal heat and minerals, feels good. similar to visiting a shrine or temple, the architecture and history is sometimes interesting.

Never, :D But going to some day, :p

Fair enough. It will definitely be something I try at least once I suppose.