Korean Saunas and Overnight Spas

Overnight spas and Korean saunas are a growing trend from New York to Los Angeles. These spacious accommodations offer a fresh and rejuvenating experience for a budget-friendly price.

Saunas are essentially temperature- and humidity-controlled rooms, filled with steam. They are sometimes infused with relaxing herbs or made with healing materials, such as salt, amethyst, charcoal or gold. Many Korean saunas or bathing houses, referred to as jimjilbang, are gender segregated, but some spas allow for coed bathing and sauna time. These coed spas are a popular destination for couples.

Unlike traditional spas, these locations offer a flat rate — usually less than $30 — for unlimited access to multiple sauna, shower and steam rooms. Most tickets are valid for a full 24 hours. Some locations even encourage overnight guests by providing luggage storage and nap rooms.

Guests are required to bathe prior to entering the sauna and most spas provide towels and cotton clothing to wear in the saunas. There are locker rooms for guests to store their belongings and most spas offer complimentary bath salts, body lotions, shampoo and shower products.

These spas seek to create a rejuvenating oasis with a full-service spa menu in addition to the sauna and steam rooms. Some, such as Spa Castle, include a gym and multiple dining areas, featuring traditional Korean food. Guests can also purchase add-ons such as massages, acupressure sessions and manicures. Many spas also offer additional services, such as eyebrow waxing and hairstyling.

Korean saunas and steam rooms offer a unique, all-inclusive spa experience without the overwhelming price tag of luxury resorts. Although saunas are inadvisable for people with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, these spas provide a rejuvenating experience. They are ideal for a relaxing day and perfect to share with a group of friends.