Japan's bonus that washes away sweat and fatigue in one go after your round — the large communal bath (大浴場) and onsen (温泉). Most Fukuoka golf courses have one, and the fee is usually included in the green fee. That said, if it's your first time you may be surprised that "you undress completely and bathe together." Once you know the order and etiquette, it's the most refreshing way to finish.
The single most important thing — "wash your body before getting in the bath"
There's just one absolute rule of Japanese onsen. Before soaking in the bath, always wash your body clean in the shower. The bath is not a "place to wash" but a "place to soak with a clean body." Since everyone shares the same water, rinsing off without leaving a single soap bubble before getting in is basic courtesy.
The bathing order — follow it just like this
- Take off all your clothes in the changing roomThe communal bath is fully nude in principle. No swimsuits or underwear. Leave your clothes and large towel in a basket or locker in the changing room, and go in carrying only one small towel.
- Wash your body clean at a washing stationSit at one of the "washing stations" (a low stool + shower) lined along the wall and wash your whole body with soap and shampoo. Use the amenities provided. Stand up only after rinsing off every last bubble.
- Get into the bath slowlySoak in slowly, starting from your toes. The onsen can be hot, so don't overdo it. After golf, soaking in 5–10 minute stretches is ideal.
- Keep the small towel out of the bathNever dip the small towel you brought in into the water. Fold it and place it on top of your head or at the edge of the bath.
- Get out, dry off, and change clothesWhen you get out, give yourself a rough wipe-down with the small towel and head to the changing room. Use the large towel in the changing room. After tidying your hair and body, get dressed.
In Japan there's a lingering sentiment associating tattoos with organized crime, so quite a few places restrict bathing in the communal bath if you have a tattoo. Small tattoos can often be covered with a waterproof patch or tape (tattoo sticker); for large tattoos, it's safer to ask the front desk in advance or use a private shower. Since it's a common feature among Thai golfers, particular care is needed.
There are two kinds of towels — don't mix them up
Small towel (浴用タオル)
The "washing" towel you carry into the bath area. Use it to wash your body and as a cover outside the bath. Don't dip it in the bath water.
Large towel (バスタオル)
The "drying" towel. Leave it in the changing room and don't carry it into the bath area. Use it after you come out.
① Soap, shampoo, and conditioner are usually provided (empty-handed is OK).
② In the bath area, no swimming, diving, or rowdiness — enjoy it quietly.
③ If your hair is long, tie it up so it doesn't touch the water.
④ No photography (refrain from bringing in your phone).
⑤ Avoid long soaks right after drinking or when exhausted from the round.
Japanese to use at the onsen
Undress → wash your body → soak in the bath → get out and dry off. Keep just this order and you won't make a mistake at any onsen or communal bath in Japan.
Onsen operating hours, tattoo policy, and whether amenities are provided vary by course. If you have a tattoo or any questions, we recommend checking with the front desk before your round.