Onsen Rules Tourists Always Break
To say rinsing off before getting in in Japanese, say かけ湯 (kakeyu).
Before you jump in a Japanese hot spring — there's one rule everyone forgets.
かけ湯
kakeyu
rinsing off before getting in
In this video
- 温泉に入る前、これ忘れないで！ Onsen ni hairu mae, kore wasurenaide! Before you get in a Japanese hot spring — don't skip this.
- まず、体を洗います。これ、超大事。 Mazu, karada o araimasu. Kore, chō daiji. First, wash your body. This is the big one.
- 湯船の前に「かけ湯」。お湯を体にかけてね。 Yubune no mae ni “kakeyu.” Oyu o karada ni kakete ne. Before the tub, do 'kakeyu' — rinse off with the hot water.
- タオルはお湯に入れないでね。 Taoru wa oyu ni irenaide ne. And keep your towel out of the water.
- これでマナー完璧。気持ちいいよ〜！ Kore de manā kanpeki. Kimochi ii yo〜! Now your manners are perfect — and it feels amazing 👇
Why this phrase
Teach the essential onsen etiquette so a tourist doesn't accidentally offend. Lead with the wash-first rule, add the towel and tattoo notes. Keep it warm, not scolding.
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