How to Sleep in a Jjimjilbang: Staying Overnight in a Korean Bathhouse in Seoul
Accommodation in Seoul isn’t outrageously expensive, but when you’re a broke 21-year-old waitress with big travel dreams, even one saved night is a big deal.
I found myself in Seoul with a gap in my budget and a decision to make: book another hostel bed or try something a little crazy.
So, I spent the night in a jjimjilbang.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you can sleep in a Korean bathhouse, how much it costs, or if it’s safe for solo female travelers, here’s my honest experience.
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What is a “jjimjilbang”?
A jjimjilbang is a Korean public bathhouse, where people go… to take a bath… with strangers.
Because apparently bathing at home is not enough.
The Koreans take beauty and personal care very seriously. If you’ve seen their famous 10-step skincare routine, you’ll get what I mean. I barely have the motivation to wash my face every night.
But a jjimjilbang is not merely a communal bathtub, it’s closer to a full spa complex.
A typical Korean bathhouse includes:
- Hot and cold soaking pools
- Steam rooms and saunas
- Jacuzzis
- Massage tables
- Entertainment lounges
- Restaurants
- Sleeping halls!
Most jjimjilbangs are open 24 hours. Which means yes, you can squeeze in a few hours of sleep there if you like.
Or, if you’re a budget traveler like me, the whole night.
Where to find a jjimjilbang in South Korea
There are jjimjilbangs all over South Korea, especially in major cities.
Here are some well-known ones in Seoul that are open 24 hours:
- Spa Lei (female only)
- Sparex
- The Spa in Garden 5
- Gold Spa
At the time of my visit, I went to Dragon Hill Spa & Resort, which was one of the biggest and most tourist-friendly jjimjilbangs in Seoul.
It had even been featured in major international media including the CNN and The New York Times, and was often recommended to first-time visitors.
Unfortunately, Dragon Hill Spa has since permanently closed. However, the jjimjilbang experience itself is very much alive in Seoul, and many other bathhouses still offer similar packages at affordable prices.
The facilities and pricing structure I describe below are typical of large jjimjilbangs in Seoul.
How much does it cost to go to a Korean bathhouse?
This, of course, varies from one spa to another, depending on their facilities and location.
In the bigger spas in the city center, expect to pay around KRW10,000 – KRW20,000 for 12 hours. The rates can be slightly higher for nighttime entry and weekends.
Extra services like body scrubs, massages, and facials are charged separately.
What to expect at a Korean bathhouse
Registration
At most Korean bathhouses, the first step upon arrival is registering at the front desk. You’ll receive a wristband, locker key, towel, slippers, and a set of clothes to wear in the communal areas (excluding the bathing areas).
Your wristband functions like an internal credit card. You leave your valuables in your locker and charge all food and services to your wristband. Then, you pay everything at checkout.
So don’t lose that wristband.
Unless you want a stranger enjoying a complimentary massage at your expense.
Getting ready for the bath
Jjimjilbangs are gender-segregated (sorry!).
You’ll head to the floor or section assigned to your gender. Unfortunately, South Korea is still pretty conservative regarding gender identity, so this system may be uncomfortable for non-cisgenders.
Once inside, you find your locker, secure your belongings, and then…strip to your birthday suit.
It both surprised and delighted me that everybody walked around naked in the bathing area.
At first, it might feel terrifying. Then you realize that everyone else is naked too, across all ages, shapes, and sizes.
Besides, they’ve probably been doing this every week since they were kids. The sight of your naked bottom won’t be anything new to them.
So, embrace your curves (or a lack thereof), and flaunt what you’ve got, because none of us is perfect and all bodies are beautiful.
Soaking in the pools
Once you’re clean and ready, it’s time to enjoy the many different facilities available.
If you’ve never gone skinny dipping before, this is your chance to experience it. Each pool has a temperature indicator, so you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into.
And what do you actually do in the pool?
Just sit back and relax. Close your eyes if you need to.
You may feel awkward if you’re the only foreigner around, or the only one without a partner to talk to. But if it’s any consolation, no one knows you there, and you’re probably never going to see them again.
I didn’t make any friends there either. It’s pretty hard to mingle when you’re butt naked. And I imagine it must be nearly impossible to maintain eye contact with anyone when their naughty bits are staring back at you.
Scrubbing and other treatments
As mentioned earlier, the jjimjilbang is not only a place to take baths, but also a spot for other spa treatments such as body scrub, massages, facials, ear candling, and manicures.
Professionals are available to provide these services at an additional cost. I, of course, didn’t try any of it because I was on a tight budget and was just there to get cheap accommodation.
According to Melissa from Heels and A Backpack and Calvin from Seek the World, body scrubbing is serious business in South Korea. They really know how to make you shed like a snake.
It’s also quite common for strangers in the bathhouse to help scrub each other’s backs, so if you get offered assistance, just say yes!
Sleeping overnight in the jjimjilbang
Now, the real question. Can you actually sleep overnight in a jjimjilbang?
Yes.
Should you expect hotel-level comfort?
Absolutely not.
The sleeping halls are communal. It depends on the bathhouse, but you’ll most probably be lying on the floor with a thin mat and a small pillow. That’s it.
But to me, it was clean and safe. And way better than my backup plan, which at the time was sleeping at McDonald’s (this was before I discovered Couchsurfing).
And honestly, sleeping on a firm surface isn’t the worst thing for your back.
As to why locals sleep there instead of going home, I still don’t fully understand it.
Maybe they live far away. Maybe they missed the last train. Maybe they just really love saunas.
I stopped questioning it and just appreciated that it saved me money.
FAQs
Do you really have to be naked in a jjimjilbang?
In the bathing areas, yes.
You cannot wear swimsuits or bikinis in the pools. This is strictly enforced for hygiene reasons.
However, the communal areas (lounges, restaurants, sleeping halls) require you to wear the spa-issued shirt and shorts.
So you’re only naked in the gender-segregated bathing section.
Can you really sleep overnight in a jjimjilbang?
Yes. Most jjimjilbangs that are open 24 hours allow overnight stays. Depending on the bathhouse, your entrance fee usually covers a set number of hours, but if you arrive at night, expect to pay a little extra compared to daytime rates.
It’s not luxury accommodation, but it’s clean, safe, and significantly cheaper than most hotels.
If you’re traveling on a budget, sleeping in a Korean bathhouse is a legitimate money-saving option.
Is it safe to sleep in a jjimjilbang?
From my experience, yes.
Jjimjilbangs are gender-segregated, monitored, and commonly used by locals, including families and elderly people.
That said, use basic travel common sense. Keep your wristband secure and lock your valuables properly.
I felt safe the entire time. Slightly exposed, yes. But unsafe, no.
Is sleeping in a jjimjilbang comfortable?
Define comfortable.
You’ll most likely sleep on a firm floor mat in a shared hall, and there may be snoring. But it’s clean, safe, and functional.
If you need five pillows and blackout curtains, book a hotel.
If you’re okay with minimalist, communal, and slightly unconventional, you’ll survive just fine.
Can foreigners go to a jjimjilbang?
Absolutely.
While some smaller bathhouses may cater primarily to locals, most larger jjimjilbangs in Seoul welcome foreigners.
Basic English signage is common in bigger establishments, and the system is straightforward enough once you understand how it works.
You don’t really need to speak Korean to enjoy the experience.
Can solo female travelers visit a jjimjilbang?
Yes. In fact, jjimjilbangs are very commonly used by women of all ages. Some, like Spa Lei, are female-only facilities.
If you’re a solo female traveler in Seoul looking for safe and budget-friendly accommodation, this can be a practical and culturally immersive option.
Are jjimjilbangs still popular in Seoul?
Yes, although some (like Dragon Hill Spa) have closed, jjimjilbang culture is still very much alive in South Korea.
They remain popular for relaxation, socializing, and perhaps, just something to do on the weekends.
Final thoughts
If you’re looking for budget accommodation in Seoul and don’t have large luggage, a jjimjilbang can be the perfect choice.
Lockers are small, so this works best if you’re traveling light.
Even if you don’t stay overnight, visiting a Korean bathhouse is a cultural experience in itself.
Would I do it again? Absolutely.
But I’d book the body scrub next time. Because if you’re going to be naked with strangers in Seoul, you might as well come out glowing.
Looking for more unconventional stays around the world? Check out my Travel Bucket List for unique accommodations, quirky experiences, and offbeat adventures that’ll make your travel unforgettable.
Pernah tengok masa ji hyo pergi dalam running man. Memang tak boleh pakai apa apa ye? Tapi nampak selesa je.
Haah kat tempat mandi mmg takleh pakai apa2. Tapi memang selesa la Korean bathhouse ni kalau nak buat full-body pampering, sbb ada massage, spa, sauna semua.
wow! you make feel want to travel now! i should put this on my travel list later. thank you so much for sharing!
You’re welcome, Khai. Do check out my other blog posts as well. You might find more things to add to your list 😊
This will be the next destination I would love to visit! I miss traveling! Hope this CMCO and MCO will pass more faster!
Me too, girl. My livelihood depends on travel. Really hoping for this to be over soon. In the meantime, you can check out my other blog posts for more ideas and travel tips 😉
Menariknya siap ada sleeping room macamtu, kalau letih dan nakkan ketenangan, elok tidur situ tu, then mandi..mesti lepas tu fresh kannn…
Ya betul, sis. Serba lengkap Korean bathhouse ni. Kalau lapar, ada kafe. Pendek kata, all in one la.
Baru tahu kalau pergi sini tak boleh pakai apa apa. I tak pernah jejak kaki ke Korea lagi maybe one day. Baca cerita yang you kongsikan rasa teruja pula. Harganya pun murah saja kan.
Haah murah je. Kira dua dalam satu la. Sambil dapat tempat tido, dapat servis spa sekali. Sesuai untuk budget traveler. Jimat duit untuk hotel satu malam.
selalu tengok dalam movie atau drama Korea, kalau nak lari dari rumah mesti tidur dekat sini hahaha
Hahaha la ye ke? Idea yang menarik tu kalau nak lari dari rumah. Kenapa la kat Malaysia takde 😆
Interesting, I didn’t know that Korea also having this kind of self-pamper spa.. I heard about Japan only.. Next time need to experience this at least for once in the life time.
Ya, I’ve heard of the Japanese onsen too, but haven’t had the chance to go. So, next time you go to Korea, be sure to check out the Korean bathhouse 🙂
Haha tak boleh pakai apa-apa. Malunya. Seram juga. Tapi dapat relax & berendam dalam pool yang bersih tu, bestnya!
Hehe, takpe la sekali sekala, pengalaman… 😆 Bila semua orang pun macam tu, dah tak rasa janggal.
Interesting that i had not been to the any Korea public bathhouse. Yes for Taiwan hot spring bath and cold spring bath. Next round travel to Korea , mouse mommy wanna try this out as well.
Oh yes, I remember trying the hot spring bath in Taiwan. Very soothing! And yes, you should definitely try the Korean bathhouse on your next visit to South Korea. 🙂
Korean and their bathhouse. Best gila siap bole lepak2 makan.. Tido mana2.. Ada sauna individual. Ada pool.. Ada jakuzi… Bila malaysia nak buat? Hahhahha
Kan? Serba lengkap. Agaknya diorang boring2 hujung minggu, pergi holiday kat dalam tu je. 😄
I also tried jjimjilbang in Korea. It was eye opening experience for me and hubby haha
You mean, it kept your eyes wide open? Hahaha. I had a lot of fun too ;-P
OMG, I am surely going to stay at least a night in a Jjimjilbang when in S. Korea. I love spas, and skinny dipping there in the pools with different temperatures is a great idea. I would rather save money spending in a hotel and use that for buying a massage or spa treatment in a jjimjilbang. Thanks for such an amazing information.
You’re welcome, Shreya! Yes, I think that’s a great way to spend money. I’d go for a spa treatment over expensive hotels anytime. I hope you’ll get to experience a night in a jjimjilbang once it’s safe to travel again. 🙂
I’ve heard this recommendation before, to stay in the Jjimjilbang, the bathhouse. At the time I was traveling with friends who didn’t want to but I always regret not doing it. Loved reading about your experience and recommendation. It looks like such a great opportunity and I love the detailed guide so thanks for sharing your incredible experience.
You’re welcome, Jamie. Staying in a jjimjilbang was a great experience and I’d totally recommend it to anyone. I hope you’ll give it a try the next time you go to South Korea! 🙂
OK, I never been to Korea, it is on the plans and now I know I can get a decent spa/bathroom treatment as it seems the whole country loves doing it. I love doing this sort of thing on the road so this is very handy to know. Now the word – Jjimjiibang….how to say this? 😛
Well, I may be wrong but I think it should be pronounced jim-jill-bang, rhyming with lung. Or you can say bathhouse. 😀 Now you know where to go for some self-pampering time on your future trip to Seoul.
I had to re-read your first sentence a few times to make sure I had understood it correctly! I always find spa and self-wellness in other countries to be very interesting. I remember my first Thai massage and the rituals that came with it – it was fascinating! I would love to give a Jjimjilbang a try, and the sleeping arrangements didn’t seem all that bad!
It wasn’t bad at all, Chloe! I slept pretty well, in fact. Like you, I also love trying out all the different massages and treatments when I travel and Thai massage is one of my favorites. I hope you’ll get to experience a jjimjilbang on your next visit to South Korea. 🙂
This is so interesting!! We’ve been to S. Korea but never did this. I love this concept of a Jjimjiibang (however you say it haha). Nothing more relaxing than a little spa and bathhouse during a trip. Reminds me of something we did in Hungary actually in their bathhouses! We’ll definitely look into this when we return to S. Korea.
You definitely should, Marielle! I’ve heard of those bathhouses in Hungary too. I have yet to visit the country yet, but when I do make it there, I’ll be sure to include that on my itinerary. 🙂
Wow this is completely a new learning for me. Never knew anything about jjimjilbang. Interesting concept and I would certainly love to try out this experience whenever we visit South Korea.
Yes, you definitely should, Subhashish. It’s a great place to relax and pamper yourself, whether you wish to sleep there or not. 🙂
I love this kind of places and would absolutely love to stay here. Nothing is more relaxing than a spa treatment and sauna. I am from Finland where the sauna culture is very deep. Being naked while going to sauna in a spa or swimming facility is very normal and natural there. I had never heard of jjimjilbang before so I enjoyed reading this.
Thank you, Paula, and glad you enjoyed the article. I’ve heard about the sauna culture in Finland. It sounds very intense, to be honest, although I would love to experience it too someday. A jjimjilbang will be different for sure, but im sure you’ll love it as well. 🙂
Oh my gosh! I want to experience this. Probably with my sisters though, not friends. lol. And I would add massage and scrubbing as well. After all, when you spend a night here, you have extra money to splurge from your accommodation budget.
You’re absolutely right, Umiko. Since you’ve saved on accommodation, you might as well splurge on spa treatments. I think I’d feel more self-conscious in front of my family than my friends though. Hahaha.
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