Sauna no Umeyu Honest Review – Kyoto’s Local Public Bath & Sauna Experience

About　Sauna no Umeyu

It is a sento loved by Japanese locals and frequently used by people from the neighborhood. At the same time, many international visitors also come here, making it a good choice even for those experiencing a Japanese public bath for the first time.

Based on my own experience visiting Sauna no Umeyu, this review honestly covers both the good points and the drawbacks of the facility.

Facility Information

Address / View on Google Maps: Click here

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Closed: Thursdays

Admission Fee: 550 yen

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (15 stars total)

Bath Variety & Quality　★★☆☆☆

The variety of baths is limited, but it is sufficient for a traditional sento.

The sauna is comfortable, but it does not particularly stand out compared to other facilities.

Another downside is that this is not a hot spring.

Atmosphere & Authenticity　★★★★★

From the reception area, you can immediately feel the retro atmosphere of a traditional public bath. It is also unusual for a Kyoto sento to sell merchandise, which has been well received by sento and bathhouse enthusiasts.

Comfort　★★☆☆☆

Because the facility is compact, it can feel quite crowded during busy times. There is no dedicated relaxation area, so it is not a place where you can spend a long time comfortably.

Although the word “sauna” is part of the facility’s name and the sauna is a key feature, there is no space for outdoor air bathing.

Unfortunately, this is not a facility where comfort is a strong point.

Accessibility for Tourists　★★★★☆

Because it is located in central Kyoto, it is a convenient place to relax and recover after a full day of sightseeing.

Another highly rated point is the long opening hours, from early morning until late at night, allowing you to visit at almost any time. Many other sento are usually open only from around 3:00 PM to midnight.

It is also a big plus that shampoo and body soap are provided in the bathing area, as many other sento require you to bring your own or purchase them separately.

Scenic Value / Surroundings　★★☆☆☆

There is no open-air bath, so you cannot enjoy any views while bathing.

However, once you step outside the facility, you will find a river flowing nearby, which creates a pleasant and refreshing atmosphere.

There are also several bars and restaurants within walking distance, so having dinner at a local eatery in the neighborhood could be a nice option.

FAQ

Q1. Is Sauna no Umeyu in Kyoto a natural hot spring?

A.　No, it is not a natural hot spring.

Q2. Is day-use bathing available?

A.　Yes, it is available for day-use only.

Q3. Is there an outdoor bath?

A.　There is no open-air bath.

Q4. Are there a sauna and a cold plunge bath?

A.　Yes, there is.

Q5. Are guests with tattoos allowed to bathe?

A.　Yes, guests with tattoos are allowed to bathe.

Q6. Can tourists and foreign visitors use the facility?

A.　Of course, you can use it.

Q7. Are towels and amenities provided?

A.　Body soap, shampoo, and hair dryers are provided. Towels are available for rental at an additional fee.

Q8. Who is this place recommended for?

A.　People visiting a Japanese onsen or sento for the first time

Those who want to experience a distinctly Kyoto-style atmosphere

Repeat visitors to Japan who want to discover a deeper, more local side of Kyoto

Q9. Who might not find this place suitable?

A.　

• People looking for a natural hot spring
• Those who want to relax and unwind at a leisurely pace
• Visitors who prefer spacious bathing areas and comfortable relaxation spaces