Bath Swap (のれんの入れ替え - Noren Norikae)
The system where the separate male and female bath halls swap entrances overnight or at set times, allowing guests to experience both bathing structures (such as outdoor stone baths vs indoor cedar wood tubs).
An ingenious hospitality concept ensuring all guests enjoy both designs. The color of the hanging curtain (Noren) at the entrance indicates the current gender assignment: blue/green for men, red/pink for women.
Inquire at the front desk if the male and female baths have completed their scheduled morning swap.
Why do separated male and female bath halls rotate/swap entrances overnight or between shifts?