Best Korean Public Bath Houses You Must Visit in South Korea: Top 8 Jjimjilbangs

In 2025, South Korea's jjimjilbang culture is becoming more popular among international travelers, especially visitors from the United States. A Korean public bath house, or jjimjilbang, is not just a place to get clean—it's a cultural experience full of relaxation, healing, and fun. These spa complexes offer hot and cold baths, steam rooms, saunas, sleep areas, massages, and even entertainment facilities like arcades or cinemas. This guide covers the top jjimjilbangs in South Korea, perfect for U.S. visitors looking for a relaxing and memorable experience.

1. Dragon Hill Spa (Seoul)

Dragon Hill Spa is one of the most famous Korean public bath houses, located in the Yongsan area of Seoul. Open 24/7, it offers everything from traditional saunas to modern entertainment.

• 7 floors with various facilities

• Hot and cold baths, both indoor and outdoor

• Charcoal, salt, and ice rooms

• Traditional Korean body scrubs (seshin)

• Sleeping zones with heated floors

• Arcade, rooftop garden, and cinema

• Restaurants with Korean and international food

• Entry: about $11–$13 USD

Why visit? It is perfect for travelers who want a full jjimjilbang experience in the heart of Seoul.

2. Siloam Sauna (Seoul)

Siloam Sauna is located near Seoul Station and focuses on health and healing. It uses mineral water drawn from deep underground.

• 5 floors of spa and healing rooms

• Saunas made from jade, charcoal, and oxygen

• Clean mineral baths with temperature variety

• Body massage and foot reflexology services

• Rest zones with heated floors and mats

• Korean food and herbal teas available on-site

• Entry: about $11 USD

Why visit? Great for people looking for health-focused treatments and a quiet environment.

3. Spa Land Centum City (Busan)

Located inside the world’s largest department store (Shinsegae Centum City), Spa Land in Busan combines luxury and tradition.

• 18 spa pools with water from two hot spring sources

• 13 themed saunas like Roman, Finnish, and pyramid rooms

• Lounges with zero-gravity chairs and nap zones

• Quiet, clean atmosphere

• Entry limit of 4 hours to avoid crowding

• Entry: $15 USD

Why visit? It is ideal for travelers who want a high-end spa in a calm setting after shopping.

4. Heosimcheong Spa (Busan)

Heosimcheong Spa is in the Dongnae area and is one of Asia's largest hot spring spas. It uses alkaline spring water that’s gentle on skin.

• Over 40 types of baths (milk, citrus, herbal, and more)

• Sauna rooms with pine wood, salt, and mud themes

• Body scrub and massage options

• Connected to Hotel Nongshim

• Entry: $10 USD

Why visit? Its wide range of baths and traditional design make it a must-visit for spa lovers.

5. Aquafield Goyang (Goyang)

Aquafield Goyang is a modern jjimjilbang located in the Starfield shopping mall. It’s great for families and groups.

• Saunas with salt, charcoal, and forest themes

• Infinity pool with city views

• Family-friendly play areas

• Food court with Korean and global dishes

• Lounge chairs, reading rooms, and sleeping zones

• Entry: $11 USD, discounts for children

Why visit? A perfect stop for families combining shopping, spa, and fun.

6. Cimer Spa (Incheon)

Cimer Spa is part of Paradise City Resort near Incheon Airport. It blends Korean jjimjilbang tradition with European luxury.

• Infinity pools with ocean views

• Roman, Finnish, and dry/wet saunas

• LED-lit pools and rooftop relaxation areas

• Art displays and stylish photo zones

• Entry: $30 USD

Why visit? Perfect for couples or anyone seeking a luxurious spa near the airport.

7. Jeju Sanbangsan Carbonate Hot Springs (Jeju Island)

This spa is located on Jeju Island near Sanbangsan Mountain. It’s peaceful, scenic, and filled with natural hot spring water.

• Carbonate-rich baths that help skin and circulation

• Outdoor pools with volcano and sea views

• Sauna rooms built with natural stone and clay

• Local tea café on site

• Entry: $7 USD

Why visit? Ideal for travelers exploring Jeju who want to relax in nature.

8. Spa Lei (Seoul – Women Only)

Spa Lei in Sinsa-dong is a women-only jjimjilbang that offers safety, peace, and beauty care in one place.

• Rose, mugwort, and herbal baths

• Sauna, steam room, and nap area

• Hair salon, skin treatments, and nail care

• Healthy meals and teas

• Entry: $14 USD

Why visit? Perfect for solo female travelers looking for privacy and wellness.

Conclusion

Korean public bath houses are very special places where people go to relax, rest, and enjoy quiet time. In 2025, many visitors from the U.S. are enjoying these bath houses in Korea because they are not too expensive and offer a fun local experience. Some bath houses are big and modern with colorful lights and pools, while others are peaceful with natural hot water from mountains and volcanoes. You can find a good bath house in Seoul, Busan, or Jeju, no matter what kind of trip you are on. Many jjimjilbangs are open all night, and you can even sleep there, which is great if you want to save money instead of booking a hotel. People go there to feel better, sleep well, and take care of their skin. For anyone visiting for the first time, it is more than just taking a bath—it’s a fun and relaxing way to see how people in Korea enjoy life and take care of their health.

FAQs

What is a jjimjilbang?
A jjimjilbang is a Korean public bath house with baths, saunas, rest areas, and more.

Can foreigners use jjimjilbangs?
Yes, most jjimjilbangs welcome tourists and offer English signs.

Are the baths co-ed?
Bathing areas are separated by gender, but sauna lounges are co-ed.

Is it okay to stay overnight?
Yes, many jjimjilbangs have sleeping zones for a small fee.

Do I need to bring anything?
Most places provide towels, uniforms, and lockers.

How much does it cost?
Prices range from $7 to $30 depending on the location and services.

Are tattoos allowed?
Some jjimjilbangs may restrict visible tattoos, so check in advance.