Q. What is the basic procedure for using a public bath?
The basic procedure is: 1) Purchase a bathing ticket from the ticket machine or consider the bathing fee at the reception desk → 2) Prepare in the changing room → 3) Wash your body and hair in the washing area → 4) Get into the bathtub → 5) Rehydrate and hydrate after getting out.
Q. Isn’t it difficult to learn the proper etiquette even for a first-timer?
As long as you follow the rules of “rinsing your body with water before entering the bath,” “not putting your hair or towels in the bath,” and “tying up long hair,” you’ll be fine.
Q. How long do most people stay?
The standard is 30 to 60 minutes. Sauna users tend to spend an additional 20 to 40 minutes in the bath.
Q. What should I bring?
Towels (small and large), body soap and shampoo (provided), face wash, hair ties (for long hair), makeup remover and lotion if necessary. Some bathhouses sell or rent these items.
Q. Is there a hair dryer?
Yes. The method and fees vary depending on the bathhouse, such as coin-operated or managed by the front desk.
Q. What should I do with my valuables?
Please use the lockers in the changing room (coin lockers, returnable lockers, etc. vary depending on the bathhouse). Large luggage may not be stored at the front desk. Please note that you are responsible for any theft or loss of valuables, so please bring the bare minimum with you.
Q. How much does it cost to bathe?
Adults: 550 yen, teenagers (ages 6 to 12, elementary school students): 200 yen, children (ages under 6, preschoolers): 100 yen. If you use the sauna, an additional fee will be charged. Please check the information for the bathhouse you are using for details.
Q. How do I pay?
In addition to cash, some baths accept transportation IC cards, QR codes, credit cards, etc. (depending on the bath).
Q. Do you offer coupon tickets or subscriptions?
Tokyo sells a common bathing ticket (for 10 uses) that can be used at all public baths in Tokyo. Separate sauna fees and set fees vary by bath.
Q. Is it necessary to pour hot water over the bath?
It is mandatory. Please wash your body and hair in the washing area before entering the bath.
Q. Can I put a towel in the bathtub?
Don’t put it in.
Q. What about taking photos and using a smartphone?
It’s prohibited.
Q. What about bathing after drinking alcohol?
Please refrain from bathing if you are unwell or extremely drunk.
Q. Can I dye or bleach my hair?
Dyeing hair is prohibited inside the building as it may cause damage to drainage and other facilities.
Q. Is there an additional charge for the sauna?
There is an additional charge. Whether towels and sauna mats are available for rental varies depending on the bathhouse.
Q. What is the basic procedure for using a sauna?
① Wash your body → ② Sauna (approximately 6-12 minutes) → ③ Wash off the sweat and then enter the cold bath (approximately 30 seconds to 2 minutes) → ④ Take a break 1-3 times. Please use the sauna according to your physical condition.
Q. Should I take a cold bath even if I don’t like it?
You don’t have to take a cold bath. If you don’t like it but would like to try it, start by pouring water over yourself or taking a short bath to get used to it, and avoid it if you’re not feeling well.
Q. From what age can I use it?
Infants and young children are also welcome. Please ask the staff at each bathhouse for more information.
Q. Up to what age can a child bathe with a parent of the opposite sex?
Children up to the age of 6 can bathe together. However, Tokyo and Shinjuku Ward ordinances state that boys and girls over the age of 7 cannot bathe together.
Q. Do you have cribs and high chairs?
Availability of these facilities varies depending on the bath. Please check the facilities at the bath you are using for details.
Q. Can people who need assistance use the facility?
Generally, bathers must be accompanied by a caregiver. Facilities such as steps, handrails, and slopes vary depending on the bathhouse.
Q. Can I get in if I have a tattoo?
Yes, you can. If you have any concerns, please speak to the staff at each bathhouse.
Q. What about taking a bath when you’re not feeling well?
Please refrain from bathing if you have a fever, a strong cough, nausea, or are extremely drunk.
Q. Can I use it during my period?
Please consider your physical condition and hygiene and make your decision within reason. If you are menstruating, please refrain from using the bath.
Q. What about lost or forgotten items?
Please speak to the staff at the bathhouse you used. However, we cannot take responsibility for any items left behind or lost, so please be sure to take good care of your belongings.
Q. Are shampoo and body soap provided?
All public baths in Shinjuku Ward are equipped with shampoo and body soap.
Q. Are there towels available for rental?
They may be available for rental or sale (sizes and stock may vary by bathhouse).
Q. Are there jet baths, electric baths, open-air baths, medicinal baths, etc.?
Facilities vary by bath. Please check the “Facilities” section on each bath’s page.
Q. Is there a coin laundry on site?
Facilities vary by bath. Please check the “Facilities” section on each bath’s page.
Q. What are the busiest times?
It tends to get crowded in the evenings and nights on weekdays and on weekends.
Q. Can I re-enter?
For security reasons, most bathhouses do not allow bathing in principle, so please consult with staff if necessary.