Conclusion｜“Bring Only the Essentials” + “Check the Signs and Ask at the Front Desk” Is the Smartest Approach
Point: Amenities and payment methods vary by sento, so checking the price board and payment icons at the entrance, then asking the front desk if something is unclear, is the most reliable method. Dryers and massage chairs are often cash-only (100-yen coins), so carrying a few coins offers peace of mind.
What to Bring, Buy, or Rent
Point: You can visit with almost nothing, but there are simple tricks to stay light while keeping comfortable.
- Face towel: Recommended to bring. Lightweight and highly absorbent.
- Bath towel: To reduce luggage, many sento offer rental or purchase options.
- Shampoo & body wash: Often provided, but those with sensitive skin may prefer to bring their usual products in small containers.
- Disposable items (razor, toothbrush, etc.): Often sold at the front desk; buy only if needed.
- Hair dryer: Usually coin-operated (100 yen for 3–5 minutes). Most are cash-only, so prepare coins.
Cashless Payments｜Front Desk and In-house Equipment Use Different Systems
Point: Admission and amenity payments increasingly support cashless options, but in-house equipment remains mostly cash-only.
- Front desk: More sento now accept credit cards, IC transit cards, and QR payments.
- Equipment: Dryers, vending machines, and massage chairs are typically coin-only.
The safest combination is cashless for admission + a few 100-yen coins for equipment.
Travel Style Tips｜How to Stay Lightweight
Point: Adjust what you bring, rent, or buy based on your itinerary and skin needs.
- From your hotel: Bring only a face towel; supplement with on-site rentals or purchases.
- During sightseeing: Carry one quick-dry towel and use rentals as needed.
- Sensitive skin: Bring your usual mild soap/shampoo in small containers.
- Long hair / quick exit: Bring a hair tie + quick-dry towel; keep dryer use short.
Mini Etiquette Guide for First-Time Visitors
Point: Sit while washing, rinse before entering, and keep conversations quiet — these three basics help you blend in naturally.
- Sit on the stool when washing; avoid splashing others.
- Rinse your body before entering the bath; keep towels out of the water.
- Keep conversations soft and brief. Avoid long stays in the bathtub and refrain from smartphone use.
- Follow posted rules and instructions for a stress-free experience.
Useful Phrases at the Front Desk (in Japanese)
Point: Simple and polite questions make interactions smooth.
- 「タオルは買えますか？」 — Can I buy a towel?
- 「バスタオルのレンタルはありますか？」 — Do you have bath towel rentals?
- 「クレジットカードやICカードは使えますか？」 — Can I use credit or IC cards?
- 「コイン式ドライヤーはどこですか？」 — Where is the coin-operated dryer?
- 「シャンプーはどこで買えますか？」 — Where can I buy shampoo?
Summary｜“Bring a Little + Check On-site + Carry Some Coins” for a Smooth Experience
Point: Instead of over-preparing, adapting on-site leads to an easier and more enjoyable visit.
Because facilities differ, the fastest process is:
check entrance signs → ask the front desk → buy/rent only what you need.
Even where cashless payment is available, carrying a few 100-yen coins ensures you’re prepared.
With minimal items, basic manners, and simple communication, even first-time visitors can fully enjoy a relaxing bath experience in Shinjuku.