Saunas are experiencing a boom in Japan, and more and more people are discovering the joys of this relaxing activity. However, some may hesitate to try it alone due to uncertainty about proper sauna etiquette. In this guide, we’ll cover basic rules, tips for an enjoyable sauna experience, and some recommended spots to visit, especially for beginners.
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The Right Way to Sauna in Japan: Rules & Etiquette
There are various ways to enjoy saunas, but in Japan, certain rules exist to ensure everyone has a pleasant experience. While specific guidelines may differ depending on the facility, there are some common practices you should be aware of before stepping into the sauna. For example, always rinse off before entering the cold plunge pool and avoid reserving space at the washing areas. These are just a couple of the key rules to keep in mind.
What to Check Before Visiting a Sauna
Many sauna facilities in Japan are male-only, so if you’re planning a trip with your partner, check in advance if the facility offers areas for both men and women. However, saunas in public bathhouses (super sento) typically have separate sections for men and women, making them a good choice for couples.
Unlike public saunas, private or individual saunas often require reservations, so be sure to research ahead of time. If you have tattoos, which are usually prohibited in public bathhouses, some places may allow you to cover them with tattoo stickers—so check for this option as well.
Important Tips Before Entering the Sauna
When using a sauna, it’s essential to be mindful of the comfort of others in the shared space. To start, make sure to clean your body thoroughly before entering the sauna. Take a full shower and then soak briefly in the bath. This helps warm up your body, making it easier to sweat in the sauna.
Be careful not to spend too much time in the bath, though, as it might make you feel lightheaded before you even enter the sauna. A quick dip to get your body warm is enough—then you’re ready to enjoy the sauna.
Sauna Etiquette
Avoid Talking in the Sauna
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many sauna facilities have implemented “silent bathing” policies, meaning no talking is allowed. In some places, this rule is enforced throughout the entire facility, from the changing rooms to the sauna itself, so be sure to follow the house rules.
The Recommended Time to Stay in the Sauna is 5-10 Minutes
It’s recommended to spend about 5 to 10 minutes in the sauna at a time. However, it’s not a competition, so listen to your body and don’t overdo it. Be sure to stay hydrated before and after each session to prevent dehydration.
How to Enter the Cold Bath
After leaving the sauna, you might be tempted to jump straight into the cold bath, but there’s one important step to remember: always rinse off with water before entering. Since everyone shares the cold bath, it’s important to wash away the sweat from the sauna first.
When rinsing, start from your feet and work your way up, cooling your body gradually instead of shocking it all at once. Then, you can slowly enter the cold bath. It’s recommended to stay in the water for 30 seconds to a minute, but don’t overdo it. You’ll feel your body gradually acclimate to the cold water, but be careful not to stay too long, as your body may start to cool down too much.
Taking a Break
There are two main ways to rest after a sauna session: outside air bathing and indoor air bathing. Some facilities may not have outdoor areas, so check beforehand. Many places also offer various types of chairs for resting. Before you sit down, wipe off any water on your body with a towel to maximize your relaxation. By doing this, you’ll be able to feel the breeze on your skin more directly.
As the breeze hits your body, you’ll gradually feel your blood vessels expand, bringing a wave of euphoria. In Japan, this state is known as "TOTONOU." Many sauna enthusiasts keep returning to experience this feeling again and again.
Recommended Sauna Spots in Tokyo
Now that we've covered the basics of sauna etiquette, let’s introduce three top sauna facilities in Tokyo, a city known for its fierce sauna competition. Each of these locations offers a unique and premium experience that you won’t want to miss when visiting Tokyo.
1. Ueno | Sauna & Capsule Hotel Hokuou
Known as a holy site for sauna enthusiasts, Sauna & Capsule Hotel Hokuyu in Ueno is a male-only facility. It also offers capsule hotel accommodations, making it convenient for an overnight stay. This facility features a traditional Finnish-style sauna, a must-visit for any sauna lover. The temperature of the cold plunge pool changes depending on the day, so your experience may vary based on your timing.
One of the highlights is the opportunity for outside air bathing, where you can relax and escape the noise of the city while feeling a sense of serenity.
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2. Asakusa | SaunaLand Asakusa
SaunaLand Asakusa is a mixed-gender sauna where both men and women can enjoy the experience together, provided they wear swimsuits. If you book a private session, you can enjoy a premium sauna experience regardless of gender. This sauna features a wood-burning stove, and the crackling sound of the fire combined with the heat that warms you to the core creates an ideal atmosphere for achieving "TOTONOU."
Next to the shower, there’s a lever that allows cold water to pour down over you after the sauna, cooling you from head to toe. It’s a rare opportunity to experience such an all-encompassing cool down.
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3. Akasaka | Sauna Tokyo
Opened in April 2023, Sauna Tokyo is a male-only sauna facility that’s been described as a “theme park for sauna lovers.” They also offer occasional Ladies’ Days, which are so popular that the waitlist can reach up to 100 groups. The biggest draw here is the variety of options, with five different saunas and three types of cold plunge pools to choose from. The indoor air bathing area features 60 chairs, ensuring ample space for everyone.
One standout feature is the "Self-Pour Steam Sauna," made with Kelo wood, a special type of wood from Finland known as “the jewel of trees.” Not only can you enjoy the scent of the Kelo wood, but you can also pour water over the hot stones yourself, stimulating your senses of sight, sound, and smell for a fully immersive experience. The dimly lit sauna room transports you to Finland, offering a space for complete physical and mental refreshment.
Sauna Tokyo is open 24 hours, so you can visit anytime that suits you. It’s a must-see spot when visiting Tokyo.
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Enjoy Saunas While Respecting the Rules
We’ve introduced the basics of how to use a sauna, proper etiquette, and three carefully selected sauna facilities in Tokyo. Japan offers a wide variety of sauna experiences throughout the country, each making use of local characteristics. It might be worth finding a facility that suits your personal preferences. When you visit Japan, remember to respect the rules, be considerate of others, and enjoy a truly relaxing sauna experience.
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