ULTIMATE GUIDE TO JJIMJILBANG: SOUTH KOREA’S UNIQUE BATHHOUSE CULTURE
- Elena-Daniela Sandu
- 4 days ago
- 10 min read
If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, there is one cultural experience that you should absolutely have on your bucket list. Jjimjilbang (찜질방) is a term referring to Korean bathhouses that function like social hubs, relaxation heavens, and wellness centers, not just places to soak in hot water. Whether you want to unwind after a long flight or spend a cozy night somewhere unique, jjimjilbangs offer an unforgettable local experience. Here is a short guide that tells you what to expect from a jjimjilbang if you ever get the chance to visit one!
1. WHAT EXACTLY IS A JJIMJILBANG?
A jjimjilbang (짜질방) is a large, gender-segregated public bathhouse in Korea, typically open 24 hours a day. Unlike Western spa centers, jjimjilbangs are very affordable and cater to families, solo visitors, couples, and even overnight guests. A jjimjilbang is a place where wellness meets tradition in a casual and friendly setting.
2. WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT INSIDE A JJIMJILBANG?
Jjimjilbangs are usually divided into two main sections:
· Bath Areas (gender-segregated): Here you’ll find multiple pools of varying temperatures, steam rooms, and showers.
· Sauna Zones (co-ed): After bathing, guests change into provided uniforms and enter communal spaces that include themed saunas (charcoal, salt, jade, clay, even ice rooms), sleeping zones, lounges, cafes, and many more.
Larger jjimjilbangs also have extras like PC rooms, karaoke, arcades, movie theatres, and massage chairs. You could easily spend half a day or a full night exploring everything.
3. WHAT FEATURES ARE INCLUDED IN THE JJIMJILBANG EXPERIENCE?
· PUBLIC BATH AREAS (MOGYOKTANG) - Korean gender-segregated public bathhouses and a core component of any jjimjilbang experience:
- gender-separated zones
- hot, warm, or cold pools
- showers
- sit-down washing stations
- steam rooms
- exfoliating scrubs
- body scrubs
- massages
- hair washing
- facials
- barbershops
· JJIMJIL ROOMS (SAUNA ROOMS) - co-ed sauna rooms with varied temperatures:
- hanu room (charcoal)
- salt room
- clay or loess room
- ice or cold rooms
· SPA & BEAUTY SERVICES - various treatments as part of the jjimjilbang holistic experience:
- body scrub (seshin)
- massages
- facials
- skincare therapies
- rejuvenation treatments
- nail salons
- foot baths
- aromatherapy
· SLEEPING & REST AREAS - open and quiet areas where guests nap or sleep overnight:
- mats
- blankets
- heated floors
- private sleeping pods or capsule rooms (extra fee)
· ENTERTAINMENT ZONES - leisure and recreation areas where guests can relax, socialise and have fun
- TV lounges
- movie rooms
- PC rooms
- karaoke rooms (noraebang)
- reading lounges
- cafes
- arcades
- board games
- massage chairs
- play areas for kids
· KOREAN RESTAURANTS & SNACK BARS - dining areas that serve traditional Korean meals and classic jjimjilbang snacks such as:
- Bibimbap
- Ramyeon
- Sikhye (sweet rice drink)
- Baked eggs (slow-cooked in kilns)
- Tteokbokki
- Bingsu
- Sweet potatoes
- Various rice dishes
· CONVENIENCE STORES - on-site stores where guests can purchase items they may need during their stay in a jjimjilbang, which include:
- everyday essentials
- toiletries
- towels
- grooming tools
- snacks
- drinks
· LOCKER FACILITIES - secure storage areas where guests can keep their personal belongings and clothes while they enjoy the spa, baths and relaxation zones; lockers are assigned upon entry (one for shoes and one for clothes)
4. WHAT IS ALWAYS PROVIDED IN A JJIMJILBANG?
· the key for a secure locker where you can leave your personal belongings and valuables
· a jjimjilbang uniform (a cotton t-shirt and shorts set for use in common areas and sauna rooms)
· towels (typically one large and one small per person)
· basic toiletries (soap and shampoo usually provided in shower areas)
5. WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING TO A JJIMJILBANG?
· extra toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, conditioner, body lotion, deodorant)
· hairbrush or comb (to use after bathing)
· hair ties or clips (to keep hair out of your face in baths and saunas)
· a water bottle (to stay hydrated)
· your favorite skincare products (to use after bathing)
· makeup (if you want to use it before leaving)
· phone charger (especially if you plan to stay overnight)
· sleep mask and earplugs (for a more restful sleep)
· light snacks (only if the jjimjilbangs allow it)
· cash or card (to pay for optional services)
· a change of clothes (for after you leave)
· a plastic bag (for wet towels)
· a book (if you go alone to the jjimjilbang)
6. WHAT IS THE JJIMJILBANG ETIQUETTE?
DO:
· Hygiene is a must, so shower before entering any baths and saunas.
· Be fully nude in the gender-segregated areas because swimwear isn’t allowed.
· Always wear the jjimjilbang uniform in co-ed areas outside of the gender-segregates areas and baths.
· Use a towel when sitting on hot stones and benches for hygiene and comfort.
· Speak quietly and always keep your voice down, especially in resting zones.
· Tie up long hair or keep it out of the water to respect cleanliness.
· Be respectful of others’ personal space and don’t stare to avoid making others uncomfortable.
· If you’re unsure what to do, watch the locals because they’re the best guides to jjimjilbang behaviour.
· If you come with a romantic partner and want to spend time together, use only the shared (co-ed) relaxation areas (jjimjil rooms, TV lounges, snack bars, cafes, sleeping and resting zones, massage chairs, entertainment areas).
· If you come with your romantic partner, pick a large jjimjilbang for more co-ed zones and fun activities.
· If you decide to stay overnight with your partner, you can sleep in the shared sleeping rooms.
DON’T:
· Don’t take photos or videos because privacy is very important, especially in nude areas!
· Don’t jump or splash in the baths because a jjimjilbang is a place for relaxation, not your usual pool.
· Don’t eat in the bathing areas because food is for designated areas like dining or lounge spaces.
· Don’t stay too long in saunas or hot baths because you are supposed to take a rest to avoid overheating.
· Don’t hog communal items like pillows or mats, and use only what you need, and then return everything.
· Don’t draw attention to yourself and your romantic partner by PDA, cuddling or other related behaviors as jjimjilbangs are seen as communal and family-friendly spaces.
· Don’t go with your romantic partner in areas that are strictly gender-segregated and naked-only. You are supposed to go to separate floors or sections to bathe and then later reunite in the jjimjilbang area.
7. WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR A GREAT JJIMJILBANG EXPERIENCE?
· A jjimjilbang isn’t a rushed experience, so go there with time to spare. Many people stay in a jjimjilbang for several hours or even overnight.
· Hydrate often because you’ll definitely sweat a lot. Drink as much water or sikhye (sweet rice drink), which are both sold inside, and avoid alcohol when using the sauna.
· Explore the jjimjilbang and try different rooms, as there are multiple themed rooms (salt rooms, ice rooms, jade rooms, charcoal rooms), each with different health benefits.
· Consider getting a body scrub, which is a Korean tradition that leaves your skin baby-smooth. It’s an intense experience, but it’s one of the most popular treatments in a jjimjilbang.
· Relax and nap in the common rest areas, on heated floors or recliners. People usually nap with towels rolled into ”lamb head” shapes (양머리). You should try it for fun and to fit in with the locals!
· Try classic jjimjilbang snacks in the designated snack bars or restaurants.
· Visit at night because jjimjilbangs are generally quieter in the late evening and early morning.
· Bring a friend or go solo, as both options are fine. Locals often go there alone to recharge, but it’s even more fun to go with friends.
8. WHAT ARE SOME CULTURAL SHOCKS THAT INTERNATIONAL VISITORS CAN EXPERIENCE IN A JJIMJILBANG?
Visiting a jjimjilbang can be a fascinating and relaxing experience, but for international visitors, it can also come with a few cultural shocks. Here are the most common ones:
· NUDITY IN THE BATH AREA - In the mogyoktang (bathhouse) section, everyone is completely nude because swimsuits or underwear are not allowed. This rule applies to both men and women in separate areas. For many Westerners or travelers from modest cultures, this level of comfort with nudity can be surprising.
· GENDER SEGREGATION RULES - The bath area is strictly separated by gender, so couples, friends, or families of opposite sexes cannot bathe together and must go to their respective zones. In contrast, jjimjilbang zones (sauna/lounge) are mixed-gender and require wearing provided cotton uniforms.
· SLEEPING ON THE FLOOR - Many jjimjilbangs allow overnight stays, but you sleep on heated floors, not beds. There are mats and pillows, but this can feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar to visitors used to mattresses or private rooms.
· NO PERSONAL SPACE - In shared resting zones or jjimjil rooms, people may nap, chat, or sit very close by. The concept of personal space is different, so don't be surprised if someone sleeps a few inches from you.
· FOOD INSIDE THE SPA - It’s normal to eat inside the jjimjilbang, so people often enjoy sikhye (sweet rice drink), hard-boiled eggs, or even full meals in their spa uniforms in dining designated areas. Eating in spa clothes, on mats or low tables, may feel strange to first-timers.
· STRICT ETIQUETTE - Talking loudly, taking photos, or acting inappropriately, especially in the nude areas, is considered very rude. Make sure you always follow the specific Korean etiquette when visiting a jjimjilbang!
9. HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST JJIMJILBANG EXPERIENCE FOR YOU?
· KNOW YOUR PRIORITIES - ask yourself questions to clarify your needs and preferences (Do I want a luxurious or budget jjimjilbang experience? Am I planning to stay overnight or just spend a few hours? Do I need a foreign-friendly place with English support? Am I planning to come with a partner, a friend or family?)
· PAY ATTENTION TO THE JJIMJILBANG TYPE - there are different types of jjimjilbangs, such as traditional and large-scale jjimjilbangs that offer a full experience (Dragon Hill Spa in Seoul), luxury jjimjilbangs (SPA Land in Busan) or budget-friendly jjimjilbangs (usually found in small neighborhoods)
· CONSIDER OPTIONS NEAR YOUR LOCATION - Seoul has jjimjilbangs near major stations like Seoul Station, Gangnam, or Itaewon, while Busan is famous for jjimjilbangs like Spa Land and Hurshimchung Spa; if you’re near Incheon Airport, Spa On Air (which is found inside the airport) is a must-visit
· TAKE INTO ACCOUNT OPENING HOURS - while a great number of jjimjilbangs are open 24/7 and are great for late-night arrivals or early departures, some jjimjilbangs close at midnight and don’t allow overnight stays, so double-check before visiting
· FOREIGNER-FRIENDLY FEATURES - for international visitors, the first-time visit to a jjimjilbang could be disorienting, so make sure you choose a jjimjilbang with a foreigner-friendly website and English-speaking staff to get clear instructions for the specific etiquette unless you have a Korean friend accompanying you
· TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION WHO ACCOMPANIES YOU - decide if you go alone, with a partner, your friends or family
- Solo travelers might prefer quieter jjimjilbangs with good sleeping zones and saunas focused on healing.
- Couples can’t enter the bath area together due to gender separation, but the jjimjil rooms are co-ed, making them great for date spots, so look for places that offer romantic views, private lounges, or cafe zones inside so you can spend time with your romantic partner.
- Choosing a jjimjilbang that's perfect for going with friends means picking a place that’s not only relaxing but also fun, social, and spacious enough for group activities. Look for jjimjilbangs that are popular, spacious, and have multiple zones because they offer large common areas, multiple sauna types, cafes and snack bars, and entertainment options like PC rooms, noraebangs, board games and comic books libraries, arcade games, and food courts.
- If you’re travelling with your children, pick a jjimjilbang with play areas, kid-friendly saunas, and enough space for everyone to relax. Many large jjimjilbangs cater to families and have amenities like arcades or karaoke rooms.
10. WHY SHOULD YOU TRY THE JJIMJILBANG EXPERIENCE?
· UNIQUE CULTURAL EXPERIENCE - jjimjilbang is more than just a spa, it’s a slice of everyday Korean life
· AFFORDABLE LUXURY - for just ₩10.000-₩20.000, you get hours (even overnight access) to hot baths, saunas, nap rooms, and entertainment zones, so it’s a budget-friendly option compared to traditional spas or hotels
· TOTAL RELAXATION - jjimjilbangs combine hot baths, saunas, and rest areas to help you fully unwind and de-stress, so you’ll walk out feeling lighter, calmer, and totally refreshed
· FLEXIBLE FOR EVERY VIBE – whether you’re chilling alone or laughing in a sauna room with your partner, family or friends, jjimjilbangs are flexible for every vibe, from social to romantic or solitary
If you're looking to immerse yourself in Korean culture in a relaxing and affordable way, a jjimjilbang visit should be at the top of your list. So grab your towel, shed your stress, and step into one of Korea's most beloved traditions. It’s absolutely worth it!