Top 5 Traditional Japanese Public Bathhouses (Sento) in Tokyo for Relaxation & Sauna Lovers

Recommended by a Sento Enthusiast — A Budget-Friendly Wellness Experience You Can’t Miss!

Looking for a truly local and affordable way to relax in Tokyo?
Skip the pricey spa and immerse yourself in one of Japan’s greatest everyday wellness traditions — the sento (public bathhouse).

Tokyo has over 400 sento scattered across the city, each offering a unique bathing experience.
Here are 5 of the best traditional yet modern sento in Tokyo and surrounding areas, handpicked by a Japanese sento enthusiast who has visited hundreds.

♨ 1. Daikoku-yu – Tokyo’s Only All-Night Sento with Open-Air Deck

• Location: Oshiage (Skytree area), Sumida-ku
• Google Maps: View Map
• URL: https://daikokuyu.com

Nestled at the foot of the Tokyo Skytree, Daikoku-yu has been serving the community since 1949.
While its exterior preserves its classic charm, the inside features jet baths, walking baths, massage stones, and a sauna.

The highlight is the open-air rooftop bath and wooden deck — a rare Tokyo feature where you can bathe under the stars. It’s a favorite “totonoi spot” (post-sauna relaxation zone).

• ✅ Tattoo-friendly
• 🕒 Open: 15:00–10:00 next day (Sat: 14:00 / Sun & Holidays: 13:00)
• 🚶 6-min walk from Oshiage Station
• 📞 03-3622-6698
• 📍 3-12-14 Yokokawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo

♨ 2. Myouhou-yu – The Stylish Pioneer of Modern Sento Design

• Location: Shiinamachi, Toshima-ku
• Google Maps: View Map
• URL: https://www.myouhouyu.com

Myouhou-yu is a leading example of modernized sento architecture — clean lines, high-performance microbubble and soft-water baths, and a sauna that reaches 120°C (248°F).

Its interior is sleek and smart, designed with tiles for easy cleaning and a powerful filtration system. It’s a hidden favorite for hardcore sauna fans.

• ✅ Tattoo-friendly
• 🕒 Open: 15:00–1:00
• 🚶 2-min walk from Shiinamachi Station
• 📞 03-3957-8433
• 📍 4-32-4 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo

♨ 3. Kotobuki-yu – Traditional Aesthetics with Unexpected Surprises

• Location: Ueno, Taito-ku
• Google Maps: View Map
• URL: https://kotobukiyu.jp

Just a short walk from Ueno Station, Kotobuki-yu stands out with its temple-style façade and retro Mt. Fuji mural. Inside, however, modern features abound — from powerful jet baths to herbal and outdoor tubs.

Be sure to try the Cave Cold Bath — a dimly lit space with unique acoustics and ambiance perfect for post-sauna cooling.

• ✅ Tattoo-friendly
• 🕒 Open: 11:00–1:30 next day
• 🚶 7-min walk from JR Ueno / 1-min from Inaricho Station
• 📞 03-3844-8886
• 📍 5-4-17 Higashi-Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo

♨ 4. Mannenyu – Urban Minimalism Meets Sento Zen

• Location: Shin-Okubo, Shinjuku-ku
• Google Maps: View Map
• URL: https://mannenyu.jp/

Tucked into a residential side street of Korea Town, Mannenyu is a designer bathhouse created by architect Kentaro Imai. Its minimalist layout and soft lighting make it a peaceful, almost meditative sento experience.

There’s no sauna, but the baths are immaculately clean, with thoughtful spatial design separating the cold bath for a more tranquil cool-down.

• ✅ Tattoo-friendly
• 🕒 Open: 15:00–24:00
• 🚶 5-min walk from Shin-Okubo Station
• 📞 03-3200-4734
• 📍 1-15-17 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

♨ 5. Haginoyu – Near-Super Sento with Massive Facilities

• Location: Uguisudani, Taito-ku
• Google Maps: View Map
• URL: https://haginoyu.jp/

Haginoyu feels more like a “super sento” than your average neighborhood bath. With a three-tiered sauna that fits 30+ people and a huge open-air bath that holds 10+, this facility is perfect for those who want space and variety.

Their early morning hours also make it ideal for early risers or travelers looking to start their day refreshed.

• 🚫 Tattoos not permitted
• 🕒 Open: 6:00–9:00 & 11:00–25:00
• 🚶 3-min walk from JR Uguisudani Station
• 📞 03-3872-7669
• 📍 2-13-13 Negishi, Taito-ku, Tokyo

✨ Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try a Tokyo Sento

Whether you’re a sauna fan, a wellness traveler, or simply curious about Japanese culture, visiting a sento is one of the most budget-friendly and local ways to relax in Tokyo.
Prices are typically around ¥500–¥600, and you’ll experience a slice of authentic Japanese daily life.

From rooftop baths with Skytree views to mystical cave cold baths, these five sento offer more than just hot water — they offer a rare chance to unwind like a Tokyo local.

🛁 Pro Tip: Bring your own towel and soap, or check if rentals are available. Always confirm each bathhouse’s tattoo policy and hours before your visit.