The Rule of Shaving in Onsen: An Essential Guide to Etiquette
Hot springs in Japan, known as onsen (温泉), are delightful havens where you can warm up, relax, and rejuvenate. Despite these therapeutic benefits, an onsen also ultimately serves as a bathhouse, making it a communal space for washing the body and hair.
Given that these bathing areas are shared amongst guests, it’s important to use them in a considerate and clean manner, following the basic rules. This includes being aware of the etiquette surrounding shaving and beard trimming while in an onsen.
The Lowdown on Shaving Etiquette in an Onsen
Though onsens are bathhouses, both men and women should refrain from shaving in the washing area, out of consideration for others.
This notion stems from the belief that shaving is a personal hygiene activity, best carried out in private. Given that bathhouses are communal spaces where everyone is unclothed, and where children and the elderly may be present, many people consider the presence of razors in such an environment to be unsafe. Therefore, if you’re staying at an onsen ryokan (inn), it’s advisable to shave at the washstand in your room.
While this is a general rule, it might differ depending on the specific onsen establishment.
For the Gentlemen
There are some onsens or public baths where shaving in the bathing area is permissible. Razors may be provided in the changing room for this purpose. You can take one, go to the bath area, sit in front of an available shower, and shave your beard. After shaving and washing your body thoroughly, rinse off the area you used for the next person before heading to the bathtub.
Given that bathhouses are places where people gather naked, it goes without saying that utmost care is needed when handling razors.
If shaving in the bathing area is prohibited, you may be able to use a sink in the changing room. Usually, information about shaving policies will be posted in the bath area. If you’re uncertain, it’s recommended to ask the front desk.
For the Ladies
The situation differs slightly for women. Although it may not be intended as discriminatory, many women’s onsens or public baths frequently display signs asking patrons to refrain from shaving in the bath area.
There are two reasons for this.
Firstly, in Japan, women’s shaving is considered a personal hygiene activity. Even if all residues are rinsed off with water, the sight of it may not be particularly pleasant for others. Remember, it’s still a 'public’ bathhouse, even though everyone is naked. Seeing sharp objects in a bathhouse may make some women uncomfortable.
Secondly, women generally take more time to wash their bodies, faces, and hair. If shaving was allowed in addition to this, it could potentially monopolize the showering facilities, inconveniencing other guests.
An onsen’s washing area should be considered a communal space for cleansing before entering the shared hot water. Consequently, it’s best to do your shaving in your room. Even if razors are provided in the changing room, it would be preferable to use them in the privacy of your own room.