Address: 6 Chome-27-14 Takinogawa, Kita City, Tokyo 114-0023, Japan
Website: sento-to-machi.org
Kosugiyu, Koenji
This 1930s bathhouse in arty Koenji is also officially a National Tangible Cultural Property. It is spacious and bright, with a sweeping Mount Fuji mural and four baths on each side. Kosugi-yu Tonari, in the new architectural building next door, is a café and co-working space run by community supporter organisation Sento Gurashi.
Address: Kosugiyu, 3 Chome-32-17 Koenjikita, Suginami City, Tokyo 166-0002, Japan
Website: kosugiyu.co.jp
HanareYikin Hyo
Koganeyu, Sumida
Reopened in 2020 after a transformation by architect Jo Nagasaka, this destination sento has a bar, DJ decks, a café and dorm accommodation alongside the baths – but its USP is the large sauna and outdoor cooling-off pool. Sauna reservations are essential.
Address: Koganeyu, 4 Chome-14-6 Taihei, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0012, Japan
Website: koganeyu.com
Goshikiyu, Mejiro
An original painted-tile mural provides the backdrop to this gorgeous sento that reopened in September 2022 after a major redesign by architect Kentaro Imai, in his signature nostalgic- contemporary style. It features coloured glass panels above three baths and advertising posters saved from the original bathhouse.
Website: goshikiyu.jpn.com
Hanare, Yanaka
This hotel set in two old wooden buildings inhabits a traditional temple neighbourhood and offers guests free tickets to its three local sento, including Fukunoyu, created by architect Kentaro Imai. English-speaking guides offer a walking tour that includes two repurposed former sento: art gallery SCAI The Bathhouse and Miyano-yu, which has a café and shop selling body brushes.
Address: 3 Chome-10-25 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan
Website: hanare.hagiso.jp
%20-%20Heiko%20Prigge.jpg?w=145&resize=145,100&ssl=1 "Buzzy, beautiful, and under £200 – these are the loveliest affordable hotels in Europe right now according to our editors")
