1.
public bathhouse
A neighborhood bathing facility open to the public for a small fee. A traditional part of Japanese daily life, though their numbers have declined as homes with private baths have become standard.
Usage
銭湯 refers specifically to traditional, no-frills public baths. Larger and more luxurious bathing facilities with saunas, outdoor baths, and restaurants are called スーパー銭湯 (super sento).
Common collocations
- 銭湯に行く / 通う (to go to a public bath)
- 銭湯の煙突 (bathhouse chimney)
- スーパー銭湯 (super sento, large-scale bathing facility)
Cultural note
Traditional 銭湯 are recognizable by their tall chimneys and distinctive entrance curtains (暖簾). The entrance fee is regulated by local government. Bathers typically bring their own soap and towels, or buy them at the counter. Bathing areas are separated by gender.
Watch out
Do not confuse with the homophones 先頭 (the front, the lead) or 戦闘 (combat, battle).