Mixed bathing culture makes foreign tourists unaccustomed to it. It is no longer necessary to be naked when bathing in hot springs in Japan.

▲.(Photo / Taken by Reporter Ji Xiangru)

Text / Rita

In Suwa, Nagano, one of the most refreshing ways to travel is to stay at a hotel near Lake Suwa, preferably a hot spring inn, and enjoy soaking in the onsen while taking in the lake view—it’s a real delight.But now some hot spring operators have changed the traditional nude bathing style and provide bathrobes to guests, hoping they will put them on before entering the bath.

,,.traveler,,,;.In fact, as early as March this year, the Japan National Tourism Organization had already created guidelines to help hot spring operators accommodate the needs of foreign tourists. For instance, tattooed travelers were previously not allowed to enter hot springs, but now operators prefer that tattoos be covered with special tape to allow entry.

However, the rule about wearing a bathrobe indoors is not yet fully implemented; regulations vary slightly from hotel to hotel.