Pack just three things — the minimum kit for onsen and outer baths
Big facilities need nothing. Only outer and communal baths need prep.
The essential three (communal and outer baths)
- One face towel — for modesty and drying. A ¥100-shop one is fine.
- Coins — entry (¥300–800) plus ¥10–100 for the locker. Ticket machines take up to ¥1,000 notes.
- Travel-size body wash and shampoo — many places provide none.
Nice to have
- A plastic bag for the wet towel
- A hair tie (long hair stays out of the water)
- A transit IC card (more outer baths take PayPay now)
Leave behind
- Swimwear (almost never allowed)
- A bath towel (heavy; a face towel is enough)
- Large amounts of cash (lockers are safe, but why carry it)