Top 5 sento in Tokyo: a relaxing experience in the heart of the capital
- Published on : 12/09/2025
- by : Phoebe
- Youtube
Hasunuma Onsen
@Stephanie Crohin
From time immemorial, the sento has been a place of relaxation and socialization, an integral part of Japanese daily life. In Tokyo, over 500 public baths are still in operation. How do you choose? Japan Experience presents its selection.
Understanding sento: Japan's bathhouse culture
The origins of sento date back to the 6th century, when Buddhist temples introduced purification rituals to the archipelago. During the edo period (1603-1868) sento grew considerably, becoming a central feature of daily life.
À Tokyo the tradition lives on. And although most public baths disappeared with the democratization of bathtubs in the home, there are still no fewer than 530 sento where you can relax in the capital!
Our selection of sento bath s in Tokyo
Whether we're talking about traditional baths or more recent facilities, Tokyo is full of santo where it's good to bathe after a long day of sightseeing. Here are 5 addresses recommended by our editors.
Akebono-yu, the Oldest Sento in Tokyo
Founded in the heart of Asakusa during the Edo period, the city’s oldest sento stands out for its picturesque architecture. Renovated in 2010, it continues to delight neighborhood residents with its richly decorated wall paintings depicting Mount Fuji. Visitors appreciate its wooden aesthetic and the kindness of its owners.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 4 Chome-17-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, 111-0032 Tokyo
OPENING HOURS: Every day from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., closed on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month
PRICE: 550 yen (approx. €3)
WEBSITE: https://akebonoyu.com/
Sakae-yu, a spa-like public bath
In Shinjuku this ultra-modern sento is a sensation, with its decor inspired by Western spas. In addition to its sauna, its subdued ambience is much appreciated. The bathing areas are bathed in soft colors, ideal for relaxing after a hard day!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 2−6−2, Nishiochiai, Shinjuku-ku, 161-0031 Tokyo
OPENING HOURS: Every day from 3:00 p.m. to midnight, closed on Fridays
PRICE: 550 yen (approx. €3)
Sakae-yu (Shinjuku)
@Dokodemosento by Stephanie Crohin
Takara-yu, traditional garden sento
In the Adachi district, Takara-yu captivates with its bucolic atmosphere of another time. While its wooden architecture is much appreciated, it's its traditional garden and Koi carp pond that make the atmosphere intoxicating. Admire the garden from the outdoor bath. Enjoy the herbal-infused waters.
Takara-yu
@Stephanie Crohin
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 27-1 Senju Motomachi, Adachi-ku, 120-0041 Tokyo
OPENING HOURS: 3pm to 10:45pm, closed on Fridays
RATES: 550 yen (3 euros)
WEBSITE: http://slowtime.net/takarayu/
Takara-yu
@Stephanie Crohin
Takeno-yu, the Sento with Black Waters
Renowned for their therapeutic benefits, the baths at Takeno-yu have been attracting residents of Azabu-juban for generations. Rich in minerals, the black water may come as a surprise, but don’t be mistaken: it’s excellent for the skin!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 1 Chome-15-12 Minamiazabu, Minato-ku, 106-0047 Tokyo
OPENING HOURS: Every day from 3:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., closed on Mondays and Fridays
PRICE: 550 yen (approx. €3)
WEBSITE: https://takenoyuazabu.wixsite.com/takeno-yu
Hasunuma Onsen, a Relic of the Taisho Era
Renovated in 2017, Hasunuma Onsen boasts a style inspired by the taisho era (1912-1926). With its original wall mosaic, it offers a surprisingly retro setting for anyone who comes to enjoy its golden-colored baths. Rich in sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate, their waters are renowned for their skin-softening properties.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 6 Chome-16-11 Nishikamata, Ota-ku, 144-0051 Tokyo
OPENING HOURS: Every day from 3:00 p.m. to midnight
PRICE: 550 yen (approx. €3)
WEBSITE: https://www.hasunuma-onsen.com/
Hasunuma Onsen
@Stephanie Crohin
Some useful reminders
When visiting a sento in Tokyo, it's important to familiarize yourself with the facilities and etiquette. Most sento offer the following services:
- Separate bathrooms for men and women
- Large communal baths with variable temperatures
- Showersfor washing before entering the baths
- Changing rooms with lockers
- Vending machines for drinks and toiletries
To make the most of the facilities without disturbing the regulars, please observe these essential rules:
- Remove your clothes in the changing area and store them in a locker.
- Wash thoroughly in the showers before entering the baths
- Avoid loud conversations and disruptive behavior
- Don't use your phone or camera in the bathing area!
- Rinse off before leaving the bathing area
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