Alright, I’m gonna give you a rundown on how to enjoy public bathhouses in Japan. It’s not just about feeling good; it’s like you’ve been heaven. But you gotta be a bit considerate of others, or you’ll ruin everyone’s good time. Come on, human folks, please!
Public bathhouses (Sento) are a part of Japanese culture, a tradition that has been passed down for hundred years. If you’re comfortable with being naked in public, I highly recommend giving it a try at least once—whether it’s a public bathhouse, hot spring, or a local spa. Embrace the experience!
There’s just one unfortunate thing to note. If you happen to have a tattoo on your body, many public bathhouses might refuse entry. Tattoos carry various meanings depending on the country, and in Japan, they are often associated with certain individuals, particularly those involved in criminal activities. While attitudes toward tattoos are gradually evolving, with some countries recognizing their sacred significance, the general perception in Japan has yet to undergo a significant change. So, be mindful of that when planning your visit!
When entering a public bathhouse, please be mindful of the following points. As the saying goes, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do,’ so I encourage you to respect and adhere to local rules.
- Payment at Reception:
Check the price list and make the payment accordingly. As many public bathhouses still prefer cash, it’s a good idea to bring the appropriate amount in cash (it’s wise not to bring a large amount of cash). Some public bathhouses may have saunas, but often there’s an additional fee to use them. In addition, they might offer items like towels or soap for sale. If you feel urge to visit a public bathhouse on a whim, it’s worth asking at the entrance. Enjoy your time at the public bathhouse! - Clean up bodies before hopping into the Bath:
Before getting into the bath, let’s start by cleaning your bodies. There are plenty of shower areas in the bathhouse with hot water and regular water, so take a seat, aim for the cleanest you’ve ever been. Once you’re convinced that your body is the cleanest in your entire life, casually step into the bath and enjoy! - In the Bath:
You can’t enter the bath with a towel wrapped around your body, and it’s also prohibited to dip the towel in the bath. If you have long hair, make sure of tying up it to keep from getting into the bath. Just a friendly reminder! - Relax and Patience:
The moment you step into the bath, you might be surprised by the heat. That’s right, especially in the men’s bath, enduring incredibly hot water is the essence of cool of Edokko, who were born and raised in Edo – historical name for Tokyo during the Edo period in Japan. Sink into the water up to your neck, try to move as little as possible, and join the ritual of enduring the hot water. (Although public baths offering such an experience have become rare these days.) - After the Bath:
When leaving the bath area, it’s considered cool to wipe off as much moisture from your body as possible, ensuring not to wet the changing room floor. After that, cool down your body with a fan, and indulge in a classic drink like cold milk or coffee milk to quench your dry throat. Even if beer is available, resist the temptation. The true essence of Japanese coolness lies in holding off until you can enjoy a drink at an Izakaya, Japanese style pub or tavern, on the way back from Sento (Public Bath).