Sento

A sentō is a type of public bathhouse found in Japan, where customers pay a fee to use heated communal baths. The name is written 銭湯, meaning “money bath,” a reference to its historical practice of charging visitors a coin-based admission. Sento are distinct from onsen, which rely on natural hot springs with mineral-rich water; sentō water is typically heated municipal or supplied tap water.

Most sentō facilities provide a variety of bathing options within a single building. The layout is usually gender-segregated, with separate floors or sections for men and women. Before entering the baths, patrons wash thoroughly at individual washing stations equipped with stools, showers, and mirrors. Soap and shampoo are often provided, and some facilities require guests to rinse off completely before entering any of the communal baths. Bath temperatures vary, and common features include hot and cold pools, a saline or medicinal bath, and sometimes a sauna or a cold plunge. Many sentō also offer amenities such as towel rental, massage chairs, or resting areas.

Etiquette is important in the communal setting. Keep towels out of the bathwater, avoid splashing, and tie back long hair. Tattoos can be a barrier at some establishments, as policy varies from strict prohibitions to more lenient approaches or covered tattoos. Photography is generally prohibited, and mobile phones are often restricted within the bathing areas.

Historically, sentō were central to neighborhood life and served as social hubs, especially in urban areas during Japan’s rapid modernization. While the rise of private bathrooms and demographic changes has reduced their numbers, many sentō remain active and are valued for their cultural heritage, with some attracting visitors interested in traditional Japanese bathing culture.