Most, if not all, ryokans house beautiful baths or onsens in place of private showers. Most are separated into a men's and women's bath, and some have private or family baths. Upon entering the bath area remove your slippers. Then you will remove all clothing and enter the shower area.

Showering in a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) follows a strict and respectful etiquette that differs from Western habits. In 2026, the golden rule remains: you must wash and rinse completely before entering the communal bath (onsen). Upon entering the bathing area, you will find low stations with small stools and buckets. You are expected to sit on the stool while washing; standing up while showering is considered rude as it splashes soapy water on nearby bathers. You should use the provided soap, shampoo, and a washcloth to scrub every part of your body, then use the bucket or a handheld showerhead to rinse off all traces of soap. Only when you are "squeaky clean" should you enter the soaking tub. It is also customary to keep your small "modesty towel" out of the water—many people fold it and place it on their head. Finally, when finished, you should lightly dry yourself with your towel before stepping back into the dressing room area to avoid dripping water on the floor, which is a significant faux pas in 2026.