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Sento: How to use Public Baths?

by BELONGING JAPAN
Sento in Japan

October 10th is celebrated as Sento Day, a tradition established in 1991 by the Tokyo Sento Association. If you haven’t had the chance to try a sento yet, why not take this opportunity to experience and enjoy Japan’s unique bath culture? It’s a perfect way to relax and immerse yourself in a centuries-old tradition.

If you’re interested in exploring more about Japanese culture and traditions, please take a look at below. 

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: What is Sento?

In Japan, a “sento” is a public bathhouse where people can relax and clean themselves. If it’s your first time in Japan, you might wonder about the differences between onsen, sento, and super sento. Here are the basic definitions:

Onsen:

    • Must meet water temperature and mineral content guidelines.
    • Water comes out at 25°C or higher, or contains one of 19 specific minerals.
    • Prices can vary.
    • Defined by the Onsen Law and managed by the Ministry of the Environment.

Sento:

      • Local public bathhouses.
      • No specific water requirements.
      • The law regulates prices to keep them affordable for residents.
      • Managed under the Public Bathhouse Law by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare.

Super Sento:

    • Larger and more entertainment-focused than regular sento.
    • Offer bigger baths, multiple bath types, and often have restaurants or other facilities.
    • Prices can vary due to additional amenities.
    • Also follow the Public Bathhouse Law.

Source: 江戸川区浴場組合

Inside Japanese Sento

Chapter 2: Japanese Bathhouse Etiquette

If you are visiting a sento, make sure to check these important rules before you experience one:

  1. Before getting into the bath, wash yourself thoroughly. Some sento provide shampoo and body soap, but it’s a good idea to check beforehand.
  2. No Towels in the Bath: Do not bring towels into the bath. You can place your small towel on your head or leave it outside the bath.
  3. Always sit on the provided chairs when using the shower to wash your body. Standing while showering may disturb others.
  4. You are not allowed to wash your clothes in the bathhouse.
  5. Before leaving the bath, dry yourself off with your small towel to avoid dripping water in the changing room.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll have a more enjoyable and respectful experience at the bathhouse.

Source: Tokyo Sento Association

Chapter 3: Steps to enjoy sento

Here are the basic steps you can follow to take a bath in a sento:

  1. Take off your shoes: Use the shoe locker provided at the entrance and keep the key.
  2. Payment: Pay the bathing fee. Some sento only accept coins, so check in advance.
  3. Find a locker: Store your belongings in a locker, keeping only your small towel.
  4. Grab a bucket and stool: Take a bucket and stool for washing.
  5. Wash your body and head: Thoroughly clean yourself before entering the bath.
  6. Relax in the large bath: Enjoy soaking in the warm bath.
  7. Dry off: Use your small towel to dry your body before returning to the dressing room.
  8. Relax in the dressing room: Some sento offer cold drinks, so take your time and relax after your bath!
Inside Sento Japan

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