Korean-style sauna - Jjimjilbang

Traveling around other countries means exploring its local culture, just like trying the hot springs in Japan, I recommend trying the Korean-style sauna in Korea. It is actually quite fun since you get to sit in saunas in different temperatures or watch TV, sleep, have a manicure or spa if you are feeling tired or you don't have a place to stay for a night.

 

We went to the one beside Yongsan station, called Dragon Spa and there were 5 levels with different activities for men, women or both. At the front desk, after we paid about 12,000won, they gave us each a locker key and a set of clothes to change into. Using our key, we entered the spa and kept our shoes in the shoe lockers labelled with our key number. Then we took the elevator to the 3rd floor which is for ladies only and changed and put our stuff into the lockers. We didn't use the bath and sauna so we went back to the 1st floor to find the resting area. The resting area was quite big and there were massage chairs, sauna rooms, manicure, pedicure, TV and mini grocery store. We bought some eggs and drinks and sat on the floor to eat and watch TV.

 

After resting, we played japanese drum game which was one of my favorite games while I was in Japan and then we went to the top floor to check out the roof garden. From the roof garden, we could see the neighboring buildings and enjoy the sun or a drink from the bar. The concept was nice with relaxing music. After that we went to the restaurant to try the Jjajangmyeong and saw a lot of people having fun at the pool with their children. It was nice to be by the pool especially on a warm day to enjoy some sun. It will be nice to go in winter to try out the saunas available especially there were ones with different temperatures and built with stones or charcoals. For those who are not interested in taking long saunas, there are also game rooms, singing rooms, spa and cafe for your comfort. I would also recommend going on weekdays to avoid crowds and to be able to enjoy a good rest.