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- Photo by ICC
Just a 10-minute walk from Waseda Campus is “Toyokawa Yokusen,” a traditional Japanese sento (public bathhouse) that welcomes you with a cozy, comforting warmth.
The moment you step through the curtains, a soothing, nostalgic atmosphere wraps around you. Originally opened in 1950 and affectionately known back then as the “Mejiro Goten” (Mejiro Palace), the bathhouse retains its retro Showa-era charm, complete with historic architecture and a magnificent hand-painted mural of Mt. Fuji by renowned sento painter Morio Nakajima.
During this event, we will visit Toyokawa Yokusen for a special tour of both the men’s and women’s bath areas. The third-generation owner, Yukio Okajima, will share stories about Japanese sento culture and the rich history of Toyokawa Yokusen, which has been loved by the local community and students for generations. We will also hold an interactive session where participants can chat and share unique bathing traditions from around the world.
Why not join us for this special experience to discover the depth of traditional Japanese sento culture and broaden your horizons?
After the event, interested participants are welcome to stay and enjoy a relaxing bath. * Please read “Before Applying” below for details.
Whether you are interested in intercultural exchange, local culture, or simply want to experience a traditional sento for the first time, we warmly invite you to join us!
Guest: Mr. Okajima Yukio
Photo by ICC
3rd Generation Owner of Toyokawa Yokusen
Being at the bathhouse every day, he manages all operations—from fine-tuning the water temperature and cleaning to welcoming guests. Warmly greeting local residents and students, he has dedicatedly preserved the time-honored traditions and rich history of Japanese bathhouse culture.
Cooperation
Founded in 1950, Toyokawa Yokusen, the historic Sento was grandly referred to as the “Mejiro Palace” for its majestic architectural presence—a historic charm it still preserves today.
Inside, retro ceiling fans gently blow a refreshing breeze overhead, while a vibrant, majestic mural of Mt. Fuji— painted in both the men’s and women’s sections by renowned sento painter Morio Nakajima— adorn the main walls. Located right near Waseda University, this traditional sento has been a cherished local landmark for generations.
Date & Time
Friday, Nov. 20, 2026, 3:00-5:00pm (Check in from 2:45pm)
Place
Meeting Point:
Waseda Campus *Details sent to confirmed participants
Destination:
Toyokawa Yokusen (Sento) *Indoor Tour
Event Schedule
- Check-in, Opening & Icebreaker (at Waseda Campus)
- Walking to Toyokawa Yokusen
- Talk by Mr. Okajima, Bathhouse Tour, Group Work & Drinks (at Toyokawa Yokusen)
- Closing & Dismissal
- Optional: Bathing Time (at Toyokawa Yokusen, for those who wish to stay)
Eligibility
Waseda Students
Language
MC: English & Japanese
Presentation: Japanese (English materials & Translation available)
Q&A: Japanese and English
Social Time: Unrestricted
Fee
Free
* Bathing fee separate (discounts available / ~6PM)
Capacity
About 25 people
*Lottery results announced on the deadline day
Application
Via this form ＊Requires MyWaseda login
Deadline
Thursday, Nov. 12, 9:00am
Before Applying
Please read and confirm your understanding of ICC’s policies on Cancellation, Food Allergens, Photography and Reasonable Accommodations here.
★This program is designed to help participants learn about Japanese bathhouse (sento) culture. The official program will conclude after the tour and explanation session at Toyokawa Yokusen. Participants who wish to do so may choose to enjoy a bath at their own discretion after the program.
Please note that anyone wishing to use the bathhouse must follow the facility’s operating rules, as well as all applicable laws and local regulations. The bathhouse provides separate bathing areas designated as men’s and women’s baths, and participants are required to follow the facility’s rules regarding their use.
The ICC respects the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientations. If you have any concerns or questions regarding the use of the bathing facilities, please feel free to contact the ICC before registering or prior to the event.
