Experience a Korean Sauna Jjimjilbang for Relaxation
Are you planning a trip to South Korea? If so, prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience: a visit to a traditional Korean sauna! Known as jjimjilbang, these unique bathhouses offer more than just a place to relax; they provide a complete cultural immersion that you won't want to miss. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about jjimjilbangs, from what to expect inside to how to navigate your visit.
The term jjimjilbang refers to Korean bathhouses that have been a staple of the culture for generations. These establishments often span multiple floors and operate 24/7, making them accessible in nearly every city in South Korea. What sets jjimjilbangs apart from typical spas is the shared experience they offer. While there are gender-segregated areas, many spaces are communal, allowing friends, families, and couples to relax together. This inclusivity is one of the many aspects that make jjimjilbangs so appealing.
Inside a jjimjilbang, you can expect to find a variety of facilities designed to keep you entertained and relaxed for hours. From heated pools to saunas and thermal rooms, there's something for everyone. Some jjimjilbangs even offer additional amenities such as heated floors (known as ondol) for napping, restaurants, beauty salons, and even karaoke rooms. This variety makes jjimjilbangs a distinct experience compared to spas around the world.
If you’re thinking about spending the night, you can! Many jjimjilbangs allow overnight stays, although remember that their primary purpose is relaxation and rejuvenation. I spent about three hours on my first visit, but I've heard stories of locals lounging there for up to eight hours at a time!
What to Expect When Visiting a Korean Sauna
Before stepping into a jjimjilbang, you might have a lot of questions. From concerns about nudity to navigating the space, it's normal to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. The best advice I can give is to relax and enjoy the experience. Once you find your footing, it’s all about having fun!
1. Entry, Lockers, and Changing Rooms
Upon arrival, you'll pay an entrance fee (typically between 10,000-15,000₩ at standard locations) and receive a magnetic key for a locker along with a pajama-like outfit, usually differentiated by color for males and females. It's essential to remember which side is designated for your gender—this is a common point of confusion for newcomers.
Next, you’ll reach small lockers for your shoes; in the jjimjilbang, everyone walks around barefoot. Then comes the changing room, where you’ll undress and store your belongings in a larger locker (remember to choose one that matches your key number). After that, it’s time to embrace the experience and head out in your pajama attire!
2. Showers, Jacuzzis, and Saunas
Most jjimjilbangs connect the changing room to the bathing area, making it easy to navigate. This area generally features multiple jacuzzis at varying temperatures, from refreshing cool pools to scalding hot tubs around 43ºC. You’ll also find intriguing saunas and shower facilities.
Before using any communal baths, it’s customary to shower thoroughly. Most jjimjilbangs only provide hand soap, so remember to bring your shampoo or purchase some from the on-site shop. You’ll use a disposable cloth to wash yourself instead of applying soap directly to your body. Higher-end establishments may offer shampoo and conditioner, making your experience even more enjoyable.
Regarding towels, most jjimjilbangs provide small towels in the changing area and bathing zone. I found them helpful for resting my head in the jacuzzis or sitting on in the saunas. As for the saunas, I encountered one heated to a staggering 101ºC, but my favorite was a cozier 56ºC sauna decorated with quartz that created a soothing ambiance.
For those interested in a massage, many jjimjilbangs offer this service for an additional fee (approximately 15,000₩). While I didn’t partake, I noticed that the massages focus on deeply cleansing the skin. You’ll need to sign up and wait for your number to be called, announced in Korean.
3. Common Areas and Thermal Rooms
After I finished soaking, I slipped back into my pajama outfit and ventured to the common areas, where you can relax without any worries about dress code (it’s totally acceptable to wear the outfit without anything underneath). The atmosphere is laid-back, with groups of people chatting and winding down.
Here, you’ll find various thermal rooms with adjustable temperatures. They’re not your typical saunas but rather rooms designed for relaxation. One I visited was the famous hanjeungmak, with a wood-burning stove at the back, maintaining a comfortable 87ºC. Another room featured hot stones, and there was even a cold room set at an invigorating -8ºC. It’s an exhilarating experience to feel such drastic temperature changes!
You’ll also discover communal spaces with televisions, cozy nooks, a small restaurant with basic snacks, and even dimly lit areas with individual mats for resting. Here, you’re free to use your phone to document your experience or share it with friends. You can also bring a water bottle and refill it at dispensers located throughout the jjimjilbang.
Exploring Saunas and Bathhouses in Seoul
As mentioned, jjimjilbangs are found throughout South Korea, and Seoul offers a wealth of options. Previously, Dragon Hill Spa was a popular choice, but it has permanently closed. Here are some alternatives that you might consider:
- The Palace Precious Stones (삼호궁전사우나) in Gangnam, which I visited for 11,000₩.
- Dongdaemun Sparex (24시 스파렉스), next to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (recommended by a friend!). Cost: 12,000₩.
- Lotte Boseok Sauna Jjimjilbang in Gangnam, entry fee: 11,000₩.
- Golden Spa, located south of Dongmyo Market, cost: 11,000₩.
While these options cater to both genders, there are also jjimjilbangs designated for men or women only, so be sure to check before your visit. Additionally, many shopping malls feature jjimjilbangs that tend to be a bit more tourist-friendly, often providing English signage and staff who can speak some English. Always check reviews for the best experience before you go.
Visiting a jjimjilbang might seem daunting at first, but it’s much simpler than it appears. While you may feel slightly uncomfortable at the beginning, rest assured that the culture embraces nudity, making it a liberating experience!
If you’re curious about this unique aspect of Korean culture, I highly recommend diving into the experience yourself. Who knows, it may become one of the highlights of your trip!
For an inside look at the jjimjilbang experience, check out this video that showcases everything you need to know:
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