What Are Konyoku? - Japan's Traditional Mixed Baths

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Konyoku (混浴) are mixed-gender baths, a concept that might seem a little risque in a country that generally divides its public baths quite clearly by gender. But the truth is that these baths, open to anyone, have a history going back at least 1,000 years―they may not be common, but konyoku are a long-lasting tradition! Some modern-day konyoku even allow bathers to wear swimsuits or towels, but many still keep with tradition and require all entrants to bathe in the nude. And in reality, they're generally fairly quiet and laid-back, like any other communal bath in Japan. If you'd like to experience this unique Japanese tradition for yourself, read on for a few konyoku recommendations.