Discovering the World’s Most Unique Sauna Experiences: From Ice Saunas to Onsens

Saunas are popular worldwide, and many unique and interesting sauna experiences can be found across different countries and cultures. You can travel around the world and experience many different types of bathing experiences that center around heat, aromas, and sounds. Many European countries take their sauna bathing very seriously and there is “sauna etiquette” that must be followed when sharing public saunas. It is common to find saunas outside of gyms and spas, with some shops in Finland operating and offering saunas to clients. We encourage you to share your stories and experiences with us — although it is a very popular pastime, there are new innovations made in the world of saunas. Here are some of the neatest sauna experiences from around the world:

1. Finland: Considered the birthplace of saunas, Finland offers numerous sauna experiences. The Smoke Sauna, or savusauna, is a traditional Finnish sauna where the heat is generated by burning wood in a fireplace. Floating saunas on lakes or rivers are also popular, allowing you to enjoy the heat while surrounded by nature.
2. Sweden: In Sweden, you can experience the Ice Sauna, where the walls and benches are made of ice. After sweating in the hot sauna, you can cool down by rolling in the snow or taking a dip in a frozen lake.

1. Russia: The Russian Banya is a traditional steam bath experience. It involves alternating between a hot sauna room and a cold plunge pool or even rolling in the snow. The Venik Massage is another unique Russian tradition where a bundle of leafy birch twigs is gently beaten against the body to improve blood circulation.
2. Japan: Onsen, or traditional Japanese hot springs, offer a relaxing and therapeutic sauna-like experience. You can find them in various locations throughout Japan, often surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Many onsens have outdoor baths, allowing you to soak in hot water while enjoying scenic views.
3. Turkey: Turkish baths, known as Hammams, offer a distinct sauna experience. They combine a steam room with a full-body scrub and massage. Hammams have a long history and are considered a cultural and social activity in Turkey.

1. Iceland: Iceland is famous for its geothermal activity, which translates into unique sauna experiences. You can visit natural hot springs like the Blue Lagoon or explore remote geothermal pools surrounded by stunning landscapes. Many Icelandic saunas use geothermal energy to create a relaxing atmosphere.
2. South Korea: Jjimjilbangs are Korean bathhouses that include saunas, hot baths, and various other facilities. They are open 24/7 and offer a communal space for relaxation and socializing. Some Jjimjilbangs even have sleeping areas, restaurants, and entertainment options.
3. Canada: In Canada, particularly in the province of Ontario, you can find traditional Indigenous sweat lodges. These ceremonial saunas are used for spiritual and physical purification and involve pouring water over hot rocks to create steam.

Remember to research and respect local customs, rules, and etiquette when visiting saunas or traditional bathing facilities in different countries. Each region of the world includes saunas in their wellness routines in some form — a few in Europe are more developed because of the long history with saunas. Whether it’s a traditional wood fire, smokehouse, or electric heater, saunas have immense health benefits that are recognized by scientists all around the world. We are excited for what’s to come with new technology emerging and some companies innovating how people use and maintain saunas — Sauna Shield being one of them. It is paramount to treat public saunas and bathers with courtesy and respect and to also maintain your own personal sauna as well as possible. We look forward to sharing more and learning more as well. As always, happy sweating!