Sento, or public baths, are a traditional part of Japanese culture. Originally, they were established during a time when most households didn’t have private bathtubs. Today, while many homes do have baths, sento remain an important place for relaxation and community connection.
Sento have unique customs and etiquette. For instance, before entering the communal bath, you are expected to thoroughly wash and rinse your body. This ensures the water remains clean for everyone. Additionally, it’s customary not to bring your towel into the bath or make loud noises. These rules reflect Japan’s cultural emphasis on respecting others and maintaining harmony in shared spaces.
One iconic feature of sento is the artwork on the walls. Many sento display paintings of Mount Fuji, which add a sense of serenity and beauty to the atmosphere. These images evoke a feeling of being close to nature and create a calming, almost otherworldly environment for bathers.
Beyond cleanliness, sento offer a place to rejuvenate both body and mind. In a fast-paced modern world, they provide a space to unwind and disconnect from daily stress. For many, the nostalgic charm of sento keeps them coming back, even as personal baths have become more common.
In Japan, traditional sento bathhouses have a fixed base fee regulated by law as part of public welfare, making them an affordable option, while modern super sento facilities often offer more luxurious amenities at a higher price.
5 Sento + 1 Sauna
| Name | Address | – TOC link | Tatoo, i18n |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matsuriyu Rox Asakusa – Beginner-Friendly – Super sento | 7F ROX, 1-25-15 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo. (Centre of Asakusa) | #index_id1 | Tattoo accepted, but “Please cover tattoos and body art with stickers before entering. Stickers are available at the front desk” |
| Hinodeyu – Intermediate-Level – Public bathhouse sento | 2-10-5 Moto-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo. (West Side of Asakusa) | #index_id2 | – Tattoo accepted – No English Guide (maybe) |
| Aquaplace Asahi – Public bathhouse sento | 5-10-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo. (North Area of Asakusa) | #index_id3 | ? should be check. |
| Akebono Yu – Public bathhouse sento | 4-17-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo. (North Area of Asakusa) | #index_id4 | ? should be check. |
| Teiryusen – Public bathhouse sento – Owner is a marathon runner | 4-5-5 Senzoku, Taito-ku,Tokyo. (North Area of Asakusa) | #index_id5 | ? should be check. |
| SAUNALAND ASAKUSA – Private Sauna – Reservation-based | 1-34-2 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo (Centre of Asakusa) | #index_id6 | Tattoo accepted |
Matsuriyu (Beginner-Friendly, Located at center of Asakusa)
- English Guide Available: https://www.matsuri-yu.com/en/guide
Hinodeyu (West Side of Asakusa, Near Inaricho-station.)
https://hinodeyu.com/
https://goo.gl/maps/8fMJngJreK52
Aquaplace Asahi
https://www.instagram.com/aquaplaceasahi
15:00-24:00
Closed on Tuesdays
Bath fee: 550 yen (adults)
Sauna fee: 200 yen
Rental towels: 30 yen (small), 100 yen (large)
Shampoo, conditioner, and body soap are provided
Akebono Yu
Teiryusen
https://www.facebook.com/%E5%A0%A4%E6%9F%B3%E6%B3%89-321566937856771/
Saunaland Asakusa
https://www.instagram.com/saunaland_asakusa
There is an English-friendly reservation form available on the official website.
Note: Don’t Mistake Sento for Other Facilities
One important thing to note: In Japan, sento are traditional public bathhouses designed for relaxation and hygiene.
However, there are other establishments with similar names or appearances that serve entirely different purposes. For example, soaplands are legal adult-oriented facilities that provide private bathing services. Additionally, there are some venues specifically catering to LGBTQ+ communities, offering spaces for socializing or recreation. To avoid confusion, always double-check the signage or descriptions to ensure you’re heading to a traditional sento.
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