BENTEN-YU

A Real Tokyo Experience: Bathing with the Locals
[updated May 2026]

What sets Benten-yu apart from other public bathhouses is that this sento has been family run since its establishment in 1929. After its renovation in October 2021, the design was updated to feature Mt. Fuji. For many Japanese people, seeing Mt. Fuji in a bathhouse evokes a sense of nostalgia for the good old postwar era. However, various services and amenities are keeping up with the times, such as the free wi-fi. The entrance fee is set from 100 – 550 yen depending on age, and shampoo and soap are available to use. On Sundays they offer a medicinal bath with a pleasant aroma.

Just like all sento, the men’s bathing area and women’s bathing area are separate, each with their own changing rooms. Her you will find a vintage weigh scale on the men’s side which you can still use. Just be sure to follow the manners of Japanese bath etiquette. See our “How To Use the Sento” manga for more information.

Sento only exist because in the old days most people didn’t have baths in their homes, so going to the sento was necessary. Nowadays, however, it has become more of a place to relax and unwind, kind of like an inner-city onsen hot spring. The atmosphere may be completely different from onsen, but this is still a great truly Japanese experience. You may be shy at first to be naked in front of so many people, however once you get past that initial hesitation you will be able to relax and enjoy the experience. Since sento are no longer a necessity, they are rapidly disappearing. However, Koenji being a place of vintage and nostalgia still has its fair share, so take advantage while you still can. Benten-yu is a friendly and cozy option for sure.

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