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5 things you didn't know about Japanese onsen

There are plenty of ways to see and feel Japan, but if you want to experience the land of the rising sun with all your senses, an onsen experience may be just what you're looking for. While hot spring heaven is no longer a secret, there are plenty of onsen-related facts that you probably didn't know about. Below we share the Top 5 Onsen secrets.

1) Why people put a towel on their heads in an onsen

Besides the obvious reason, convenience, the wet towel on your head can prevent dizziness caused by hot blood flowing into your head.

2) The health benefits of onsen

Aside from the relaxing aspect, Japanese people have also frequented onsen for the cure of various health problems – a purpose the Japanese call “Toji”. “Toji” onsen visitors usually stay longer (about 1 week) to absorb the maximum healing benefits.

3) There are 10 different types of spring water in Japan

Each of them has different therapeutic effects. After a dive and even after you have cooled down, your body will still feel warm and you will notice that you sleep better.

4) Onsen were once considered gifts from the guardian deity

This made the waters sacred. Before you could enter the water, you had to climb the mountain to Onsenji Temple. Here you would pray to the onsen guard to allow you to enter the holy waters and be healed by them.

5) Tattoos are taboo in most Japanese onsen – but not everywhere!

If you are one of the many visitors to Japan with tattoos, you will most likely be denied access to most onsen because tattoos are traditionally associated with criminal organizations. However, some properties have different rules regarding their own in-house onsen.