JAPANESE BATH HOUSES, HOT SPRINGS, AND TURKISH HAMMAM
Japan is one of the top countries in the world for active volcanos. Because of this, there are countless hot springs, and bathing in an “onsen” or natural spring is an integral part of the culture. This is an outdoorsy, exotic thing to do, but bathing in a public bathhouse (although still exotic) is definitely an urban experience. Why bathe together, though? Well, bathing is integral to relaxation: it’s not just about soaping up. In Japan, the cleansing comes before dipping into the pool. The whole point of the sento is to relax and float in a warm tiled pool with or without jets, sweat out the toxins in a sauna, and even take a cold plunge.
A Japanese public bathhouse or “sento” is an integral part of the community. While they’ve evolved over the years with advancing technology, they’ve also become less plentiful since household plumbing became commonplace. The sento is still a vital part of daily life in Japan for some, but it must be noted that there are strict guidelines and etiquette to follow. First of all, they are segregated by gender. The sento is a place where people come to contemplate and gather, but the whole idea is to relax, so a silent, peaceful atmosphere should be maintained. Preparation is key: it is the custom to wash thoroughly before entering the baths. You can bring your own toiletries or make use of the amenities offered. While some bath houses are fancier than others, many are very bare bones and only cost the equivalent of five USD. Wear a towel or “yukata” (an unlined cotton kimono) but never a bathing suit. “Many traditional onsen and public baths prohibit tattoos — a policy stemming from historical associations with yakuza (organized crime).” Of course, tattoos have become less taboo in modern society and are acceptable in many bathhouses that will advertise such policies.
The aesthetics of a sento include retro tile designs in the likeness of famous paintings, murals of Mt. Fuji (to “represent good fortune and tranquility”), parted curtains to designate changing areas and, traditionally, wooden buckets filled with water to rinse off. It is imperative to rid oneself of all suds before entering the communal pools. One may think of the bathhouse as depicted in the anime film “Spirited Away” with its chambers resembling a bento box. After a warm soak, it’s time for relaxation. Rest is especially important if you’ve soaked in a mineral-rich steaming bath or sauna; this is why there are refreshments available (typically vending machines with green or cold milk tea and snacks like rice balls, ice cream and even cotton candy).
An “onsen” is very different than a public bath house because it relies on nature. Onsens utilize the healing properties of geothermal pools, hot springs, and mineral-rich baths. An onsen is a sensory experience. This is why yuzu fruits are sometimes added to the water along with essential oils (especially citrus). The use of “tatami” mats (traditional flooring made from rice straw and woven rush grass) is common and soothing because of the fresh natural fragrance. This décor is a small but important detail because, although it’s simple, the elegance is unmistakable. The benefits of bathing in an onsen are, at first glance, reliant on immense natural beauty. The pools are heated by volcanic activity, so you are surrounded by scenic mountain skylines. In winter, snow-covered peaks intensify the visual appeal of steam rising from geothermal baths, creating a Zen ambiance like none other. Japan’s bathing culture goes way beyond cleanliness and physical wellness. It also benefits psychological and spiritual well-being; Buddhist monks have been known to purify themselves by bathing in a meditative state before entering their temple for prayer.
A “hammam” or Turkish bath goes back to the days of the Ottoman Empire and is known for its beautiful interior design complete with domed roofs, alcoves galore, marble slabs and traditional brass or copper bowls and fixtures. Intricately designed mosaics and warm lighting filtered through star-shaped skylights all do their part to create the perfect ambiance for sacred relaxation. Turkish bath houses differ from Japanese ones in that there are attendants who cater to your needs by performing a soapy massage, scrub, and shampoo. There is also the option of a Kese scrub, which involves exfoliation with a coarse glove, a foam massage, and/or scented moisturizing (usually with favorite essential oils derived from rose, olive, or lavender). You are then wrapped in a towel and given a cup of tea. Sounds heavenly, right? One of the most famous depictions of a hammam is the voyeuristic 1862 painting by Ingres, where women can be seen dreamily lounging together. Another interesting—and stylish—aspect of Turkish bathing is the wild platform sandals worn by women of status, which were part of their wedding dowry during the Ottoman period (1299-1923). Today, most people wear a simple “pestemal” or bath towel fashioned from 100% cotton.
For more on botanicals and scents associated with traditional Japanese and Turkish culture (such as rose-infused bath salts, green tea face serum, and rice bran water), check out Nabila K’s line of all-natural beauty and skincare on the website.
For more on articles consulted in writing this blog, check the cited links below:
https://japanwiselife.com/travel/japan-onsen-public-bath-rules-etiquette-guide
https://www.turkish-baths.com/inside-turkish-baths
(Images courtesy of W magazine: Mert and Marcus photographed Kate Moss in the 18th-century CaÄźaloÄźlu Hamam/Istanbul; Japanese public bath houses were photographed by Stephanie Crohin).