My Sento Book Project – Preserving Kyoto’s Bathhouses
Today, I want to introduce a project close to my heart: a book about the sento bathhouses of Kyoto. This project is not just a collection of information; it’s an effort to preserve a small but significant part of Japanese culture. Sentos, or traditional bathhouses, aren’t just places for bathing in Japan—they’re social spaces where people gather and connect. But this valuable cultural form is slowly disappearing in Japan. Through my book, I aim to highlight the cultural value of sentos and show how important these places are for social bonding and health.
Why a Book about Sentos?
You might be wondering: why sentos, of all things? Sentos have a long history in Japan, and many are like time capsules. Some have been part of the cityscape for decades, if not centuries. For me, sentos have a special charm that’s hard to find elsewhere—the architecture, the retro look, the calm inside—all create an atmosphere that’s increasingly rare these days.
Unfortunately, sentos are dwindling in Japan, and for several reasons. The population is aging, and many younger Japanese people have little interest in these traditional baths. Tourists, too, often see sentos as just a “curiosity” rather than appreciating them as the cultural treasures they truly are. Yet they offer so much more than just a place to bathe: they build community and have real health benefits, like relieving stress and easing muscle tension. These are things I want to capture in my book.
Supporting the Project on Patreon
There are some challenges involved in creating this book. To visit all the sentos in Kyoto, document their histories and architecture, and get to know the people who run them, I need your support. Each visit has a guest fee, and I also cover train and bus costs to reach each location. On top of that, printing and editing the book will require funds as well.
That’s why I created a Patreon platform where you can support the project. There are different subscription options with various benefits, giving you the chance to be part of the book’s creation. As a supporter, you’ll receive exclusive updates on the project’s progress, behind-the-scenes insights, and the chance to read the book in advance. Every bit of support helps me financially and gives me the motivation to keep pushing this project forward.
The Significance of Sento Culture
One of the main aspects I’ll cover in my book is the social importance of sentos. For many Japanese people, going to the sento is more than just washing up. It’s a social ritual, a way to connect with the community. In older neighborhoods especially, sentos are often where neighbors exchange news, friendships are strengthened, and new bonds are formed.
In addition, there are health benefits. The hot water promotes circulation, relaxes muscles, and helps reduce stress—all aspects of wellness that are often overlooked today. In the sento, bathing is practically celebrated, and each visit becomes a small ritual that benefits both body and mind.
Architecture and Retro Charm
Sento architecture is often simple and functional, but full of details that reveal themselves on closer look. Kyoto is home to many bathhouses that radiate nostalgic, retro charm, with wall paintings of beautiful Japanese landscapes and artfully painted tiles. Many of these bathhouses were built in the post-war period, giving them a unique atmosphere that can’t be found in modern bath facilities.
In my book, I want to share not only photos and descriptions of these bathhouses but also the stories of their operators, many of whom run these facilities in their second or third generation. Their passion and dedication to keeping the sento tradition alive is inspiring. These stories, along with the unique architecture of the bathhouses, are things I hope to bring closer to my readers.
An Invitation to Join In
If you’re curious and interested in Japanese culture and traditions, I invite you to be part of this project by supporting me on Patreon. There, you can follow the progress of the book and contribute to preserving Kyoto’s sento culture. Every contribution counts, and each bit of support enables me to research more deeply and capture all the details that will make this book one-of-a-kind.
There are many ways to support a project, and every single bit helps to capture and preserve the knowledge and stories of Kyoto’s sento culture in this comprehensive book. I hope this project will appeal not only to lovers of Japanese bathing culture but also to those who want to learn about these traditions and values.
If you have any questions or would like to know more, feel free to leave a comment or visit me on Patreon. Together, we can help bring the valuable culture of sentos into the spotlight and perhaps contribute to ensuring it survives for future generations.
Comments