If you've used a sauna in Europe, a Japanese sauna will probably feel familiar, but there are a few differences.

For a start, Japanese saunas are often hotter and drier. Temperatures of around 90–100°C are common, whereas Finnish saunas tend to be slightly cooler with higher humidity thanks to the use of löyly (pouring water onto hot stones). Not every Japanese sauna allows this, although Finnish-style saunas are becoming more common.

The sauna is also usually just one part of the experience. Most people move between hot baths, the sauna, a mizuburo (cold plunge) and a quiet place to rest, rather than visiting purely for the sauna.

You'll notice a few practical differences too. Before entering, everyone washes thoroughly, just as they do before using the baths. Swimwear isn't worn, as most bathhouses have separate men's and women's facilities. Instead of bringing a towel to sit on, many Japanese bathhouses provide towels or reusable sauna mats for people to rinse and use.

Perhaps the biggest surprise is how quiet it is. While conversation is common in Finnish and Russian saunas, talking is generally discouraged in Japan. Traditional bathhouse saunas often have a television instead, giving people something to watch while they relax quietly.

There's more to a Japanese sauna than the heat.

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