Hot spring resort

2 min read

Spa Etiquette

As the hot springs experience may be new for you, as it certainly was for me, the idea of what to do and not to do often comes up. The answers will come up in the text when needed, specifically in the detailed sections of some of the resorts, so don’t worry. As is always the case, use your best judgment and when it comes to the more in-depth medical treatments you can always and should always consult a physician first.

There is one important thing that needs to be discussed. Hot spring time means naked time. Your are essentially taking a bath so clothes are not always necessary although a swim suit is something to always bring along with you. All the changing rooms are segregated and with equal facilities on both the men’s and women’s side. When entering an establishment you are given a locker key where after disrobing you can hang up your clothes and lock away your valuables. Many establishments will hand you a new, personal washcloth for the showers and other water facilities. For most of the time though you are going to be naked with other people so consider yourself warned.

This is important to mention because in the US, bathing suits are usually worn. Not inthis case, as here in China you can say they follow the more European tradition of no clothing in the segregated water areas. In Germany specifically, as well as other European locales, in many of the co-ed areas both guests are naked.I have asked both locals and visitors and they confirm this as well as that there is nothing unseemly about it, it is simply what one does. This is not to be off-putting, but part of the experience and after a minute or two, you realize no one cares and you can enjoy yourself.

Here in China, the mixed areas like hot spring pools, mud rooms, saunas and other facilities bathing suits are worn. Many of the services offered do require some level of nudity such as body scrubs and some massage, so understand this before going in. All of the establishments do offer what I lovingly call sauna pajamas, flannel shorts or pants along with a top when in the non-water areas. Many guests who frequent these establishmentsoften bring along their own and many spas have them on offer for purchase. Towels are always nearby and free of charge if you do feel the need to cover up.