Enjoy A Pampering Spa Day At These Jimjilbang In Singapore

An activity or location that always pops up in K-Dramas is actually the popular Jimjilbang! Don’t know what that is? Well, it’s essentially a bathhouse. Although there are definitely more Jimjilbang’s in Korea than there are here in Singapore, Beauty Insider is here to share everything you need to know about these Korean bathhouses. Below, we’ve gathered a few places that can replicate the Korean Jimjilbang experience right here in Singapore. If you happen to be visiting Korea, we’ve got you covered as well.

What Is A Jimjilbang

If you aren’t familiar, a Jimjilbang is a Korean bathhouse. Yup, the ones that you see every time on Korean Variety shows such as Running Man or even in K-Dramas! In Korea, these bathhouses tend to be open 24-hours, so you can go anytime. Before, Jimjilbang’s were places people could go to clean themselves up. But, over time it has evolved into a sort of recreational area. Now, you can relax and spend the whole day at a Jimjilbang and indulge in spa-like activities! 

Inside A Korean Sauna

Before you enter a Jimjilbang in Korea, make sure that you get yourself registered and get a bracelet. This is because most bathhouses in Korea don’t use cash transactions inside. All of your activities including what food you purchase is tracked on your bracelet. Just a reminder, these types of bathhouses are open to both genders. Once inside, you will be provided with a set of clothing to change into. For bathing areas, they are usually separated for genders. The communal area, however, is open to everyone! There are even sleeping areas if you plan to get some rest or even stay the night. 

Food & Experience

Since you can spend the whole day at a Jimjilbang just relaxing, most of them provide food as well! The food tends to be available in the communal areas and popular drinks include Sikhye! If you are familiar with saunas in Korea, you’ll know that popular snacks to have are eggs, tteokbokki and chicken! Inside, you’ll also get to experience massages, saunas or even hot and cold baths. Thus, you can definitely get the full Korean experience! 

Proper Attire

Mostly, a Jimjilbang will provide you with a set of clothing once you enter. A baggy shirt, shorts and a small towel. For the small towel, you can wrap it around your head and create the well-known lamb head. Part of the Korean experience is to wear dry towels on your head. Also known as yangmeori, it also acts as a helmet to protect you from perspiration dripping down into your eyes. Now that you’re all set and have kept all your belongings in the locker room, go enjoy yourselves! 

Jimjilbang In Singapore

1. Spa-1 Wellness Centre

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Feeling tired after a stressful day at work? Drop by Spa-1 Wellness Centre which is located fairly close to Paya Lebar MRT Station. Not only does it offer affordable night passes, but the spa includes up to eight facilities including a cafe! With over 10,000 square feet of space, you can find activities such as steam rooms, saunas and cold baths. Drop by the sauna room to soothe your muscles and improve your circulation. Or, relax in their Myanmar Jade Room as it helps boost your immune system. The spa closes at around 10.30PM, which is more than enough time for you to relax before heading home!

Enjoy facilities such as the Finnish Sauna, Himalayan Salt Sauna, and Korean Cassia Seed Sauna as well as the Hot and Cold baths. Get access to the Cold Shower, Myanmar Jade Room, Menthol Steam Room and Resting Lounge too!

2. Yunomori Onsen & Spa

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Although it leans more towards Japanese onsens, reviewers have mentioned that it resembles a Korean Jimjilbang as well! Since it is a spa, it does actually offer massages and treatments. Whether it be for your body or face, they provide it! Not only that, but Yunomori Onsen & Spa is one of the number 1 Onsen in South East Asia. This is because they combine both traditional Japanese Onsen with Thai spa treatments. Escape into a world of relaxation as they offer silk and onsen baths as well. Besides that, they have a cafe as well serving refreshments, desserts and snacks to satisfy your hunger! 

3. g.spa Singapore – 24 Hour One-Stop Spa Destination

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Lastly, g.spa Singapore is actually a spa that is open 24 hours every day! Meaning you can enjoy a late-night relaxation retreat! Although it is more of a spa than a Jimjilbang (bathhouse), it does offer some similar facilities. The spa offers a variety of different spa and facial treatments, as well as body scrubs and foot reflexology. There are also retreats available for those that wish to unwind. Not to mention the couple packages to enjoy some bonding time with your significant other!

They offer steam and sauna rooms for both men and women as well as hot and cold pools. They even provide a relaxation lounge if you need a quick power nap! A unique selling point is that they offer an all-day buffet that sets them apart from other spas in Singapore. With a menu change every week, a dining area that is rainforest-themed and a tv, what more could you ask for?

Jimjilbang In Korea

1. Jeonnam Damyang Resort Hot Spring Sauna

Big and spacious, Jeonnam Damyang Resort Hot Spring Sauna is the best for families to visit. Featuring up to 13 different hot spring baths at various temperatures, this jimjilbang in Korea is a relaxation heaven. Let the hot springs wash away all your worries as you enjoy the beautiful scenery. Located near downtown Gwangju, this Korean sauna and spa also has a cafe and restaurant inside! So if you are feeling hungry, you can fill your stomach with delicious treats. 

2. Sinbuk Hot Spring & Sauna

One of the best Korean bathhouses to visit when in Korea is Sinbuk Hot Spring & Sauna. It is well-known for offering sodium bicarbonate hot springs. Since its water comes from 600 metres below ground, it’s known for having anti-ageing properties. Suitable for people of all ages, families can easily enjoy a relaxing day at this sauna. With plenty of amenities to indulge yourself in, they also have an open-air bath.

3. Jeju Sanbangsan Carbonate Hot Spring 

If you are ever visiting Jeju Island, you can’t miss out on a jimjilbang Korean sauna experience. Besides that, Jeju Sanbangsan is also the province’s first public hot spring! Not only will a visit to this Korean hot spring help lower your blood pressure, but it’ll keep your body warm too. Moreover, it features a high-carbonate hot spring, sleeping rooms, a sauna, outdoor pools and open-air baths for all to relax and enjoy.