Exploring the traditional bathhouses of Fukuoka for Good Bath Day!

November 26th is known as Good Bath Day in Japan (due to the way that the numbers 11 and 26 resemble the Japanese words for good and bath respectively) and as part of a special project eight traditional bathhouses in Fukuoka will feature Japanese cypress tree baths. In this traditional bathing style, discs of Japanese cypress wood are added to the bath water.

The sento is a traditional type of public bathing culture that has been passed down through Japanese history. Sento usually feature far larger tubs than people would have at home, and they allow patrons to chat with one another as they allow their worries as they achieve a moment of deep relaxation in the warm water. Bath-going is deeply ingrained in the social fabric of Fukuoka, and is practically a living cultural inheritance in its own right. 

On November 26, eight different baths will feature Hinoki, or Japanese cypress, in their baths. Wood contributes a warming energy to the waters, and the delicate scent of the trees adds another layer of relaxation. This kind of bathing is regarded as a form of Japanese aromatherapy, with effects such as recovery from fatigue, increased mental stability and clarity, and helping the body to retain moisture. Parents and children often help wash each other as well, making this a popular family pastime. 

In Japanese baths there are specific manners and styles to be mindful of. For example, one must always wash oneself prior to entering the bathtub, and never bring a towel into the bath water itself. By being mindful of these rules one can enjoy interacting with and enjoying the hot water together with locals. This is a truly unique way to enjoy Japanese culture in an authentic way, apart from typical tourist experiences.

By enjoying the warm waters of the bath in the evening, we can guarantee your sleep will be excellent—the perfect way to prepare for a fresh new day of sightseeing and activities. 

Date

November 26th, 2025 (Wednesday)
* Regular holidays for Nagao-yu and Honjo-yu will be observed on the previous day, Tuesday the 25th.
Please be sure to check each bathhouse's website.

Fee

Adults (12 and up): 550 yen
*Children under elementary school age are free when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Reservations: Not required

Eight locations in Fukuoka will feature the Hinoki baths:

・Daitokuyu【Hakata-ku】4-27-10 Chiyo, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City
・Nagaoyu【Jonan-ku】1-14-11 Nagao, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka City
・Honjoyu【Chuo-ku】1-3-10 Imaizumi, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City
・Koganeyu【Hakata-ku】1-1-1 Shinonome-cho, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City
・Aso no Yu [Higashi-ku] 2-16-36 Harada, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City
・Tsurukameyu [Hakata-ku] 2-13-9 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City
・Sengokuyu [Hakata-ku] 3-18-14 Hakata Ekiminami, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City
・Nishi Park Bathhouse [Chuo-ku] Nishi Koen, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City