What Is a Jjimjilbang?
A jjimjilbang (찜질방) is a traditional Korean bathhouse and sauna complex, offering hot and cold baths, dry saunas, sleeping areas, and often cafés, cinemas, and gaming zones. Many are open 24/7, making them ideal for late-night relaxation or even budget overnight stays in Seoul.
Top Jjimjilbangs in Seoul (2025 Comparison Table)
| Jjimjilbang Name | Known For | Area / Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dragon Hill Spa | Tourist-friendly, themed saunas | Yongsan |
| Siloam Sauna | Natural salt sauna, locals’ pick | Seoul Station |
| Spa Lei | Women-only luxury spa | Sinsa-dong (Gangnam) |
| The Spa in Garden 5 | Huge modern spa with pools | Songpa-gu |
| Sparex (Dongdaemun) | 24/7 access, shopping area nearby | Dongdaemun |
| Itaewon Land | Affordable, traditional feel | Itaewon |
| Aquafield Spa | Rooftop pools, high-end amenities | Starfield COEX Mall |
| Riverside Spa Land | River views, quiet atmosphere | Gangnam area |
| Cheongkwanjang Spa | Ginseng spa therapy | Myeongdong |
| Hwanggeum Sauna | Local-favorite, no-frills sauna | Hongdae |
1. Dragon Hill Spa – Yongsan
Arguably the most famous jjimjilbang in Seoul for tourists. It offers themed rooms (ice, charcoal, salt), traditional Korean baths, and even arcades and massage rooms.
Why go: Open 24 hours, close to Yongsan Station, perfect for first-timers.
2. Siloam Sauna – Near Seoul Station
A hidden gem for locals. Offers oxygen, salt, and jade rooms with great water quality drawn from deep underground.
Why go: Authentic Korean feel, walkable from Seoul Station.
3. Spa Lei – Women-Only (Sinsa-dong)
Upscale jjimjilbang exclusive to women. Clean, quiet, and luxurious. Popular with Korean office workers and solo travelers.
Why go: Privacy, premium services, in the heart of Gangnam.
4. The Spa in Garden 5 – Songpa
Located inside a shopping mall, this jjimjilbang offers various hot/cold pools, dry saunas, rest zones, and family facilities.
Why go: Ideal for families or couples after Lotte World adventures.
5. Sparex (Dongdaemun)
Inside the Good Morning City building, it’s great for night owls after shopping. Budget-friendly with decent facilities.
Why go: 24/7 operation, near Dongdaemun shopping districts.
6. Itaewon Land
No-frills but traditional. You’ll find local vibes, decent saunas, and Korean baths.
Why go: Affordable, close to Itaewon nightlife.
7. Aquafield Spa – Starfield COEX
Modern Korean spa with rooftop pools, panoramic views, Finnish saunas, and massage chairs.
Why go: Luxury feel, great for couples and Instagram shots.
8. Riverside Spa Land – Gangnam
Overlooks the Han River and is lesser-known, so it’s often quieter. Clean and peaceful.
Why go: For those wanting peace without crowds.
9. Cheongkwanjang Spa – Myeongdong
Ginseng-based treatments and herbal steam rooms offer a wellness-focused experience.
Why go: Skin care lovers and health-conscious travelers.
10. Hwanggeum Sauna – Hongdae
An old-school, affordable jjimjilbang close to Hongdae’s nightlife, perfect for night recovery.
Why go: Cheap, authentic, loved by university students.
FAQ
1. What’s the best jjimjilbang in Seoul for tourists?
Dragon Hill Spa and Siloam Sauna are the most recommended.
2. Are jjimjilbangs open 24 hours?
Yes, most of them including Sparex, Dragon Hill, and Siloam are 24/7.
3. Can foreigners go to jjimjilbangs?
Absolutely. They’re open to everyone. Just follow local spa etiquette.
4. Do jjimjilbangs have sleeping areas?
Yes, most offer sleeping zones and mats for overnight stays.
5. Are tattoos allowed in jjimjilbangs?
Tattoos are generally accepted but may get stares in some places.
6. Are jjimjilbangs mixed-gender?
Bathing areas are gender-separated; saunas and lounges are co-ed.
7. Is it safe to leave your belongings?
Yes, lockers are provided. Use common sense like anywhere else.
8. What should I bring to a jjimjilbang?
Nothing! Most places provide towels, clothes, soap, and lockers.
9. What’s the price for a jjimjilbang?
Expect to pay ₩10,000–₩20,000 ($8–$15 USD), depending on time and location.
10. Can I bring kids to jjimjilbangs?
Yes, especially to family-friendly spots like Spa in Garden 5 or Aquafield.