Robes are provided and almost universally worn (not so for condoms, so bring a supply of your own). Saunas all feature large, clean bathing facilities (wash at the squat stools or standing showers BEFORE going into the hot pool or steam room), a snack/TV/smoking room, video rooms, and multiple dimly lit mix rooms with futons, pillows, and covers. Park your things in the clothes locker and use a mix (communal) room for resting and cruising. Private rooms are also available at a higher price. Give your ticket and the shoe locker key to the attendant who will trade both for a robe, washcloth and a separate key for your clothes locker (the locker number will be the same as your shoe locker). There is usually a ticket dispensing machine next to the attendant window. Remember the number of the coin locker as you may have to announce this in Japanese to get your key back when you leave (choose a number that you can easily remember). Small coin lockers are provided in the entryway to store them. When you enter, remove your shoes carefully (do NOT step on the carpet with your dirty shoes). Expect night-long symphonies of snoring and moaning.
Saunas in Japan often function as over-night hotels when city trains stop after midnight. Special thanks to J, Stewart, yinghuantang, bear4gam, bear4unz, KenB, cosmo30, petelek, asiancute79, tallguyusa, ztheplayer, daisuke69, cramberrybog, knigth, spup, tozinim, abj1, Lazycat, hclee01, hassan, dale08, tokyofit, singaporeguy, Neil, Larry, Chris, Tohokoki, Vince P., Luke T., Dorian Queens, Rob M, Prem, Shiro, TP, Alain D. Help us keep these listings current and correct.