Introducing Soaplands in Sapporo: A Unique Japanese Experience

For international tourists visiting Japan, the country's unique adult entertainment culture often sparks interest. There are many different types of services and plays that cater to all sorts of kinks. Among these establishments, soaplands are known for offering a blissful experience specific to Japan. After experiencing this service once, many customers come back for more. This article delves into the characteristics, history, and etiquette of soaplands in Sapporo, Hokkaido's largest city.

Soapland Scene in Sapporo

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Sapporo offers a perfect blend of daytime charm and vibrant nightlife. By day, Tanukikoji shopping street is a lively hub, lined with shops selling Hokkaido souvenirs like butter sand cookies and deer leather bags. Visitors can also explore the historic Sapporo Clock Tower or relax in the scenic Odori Park, offering a peaceful escape in the city center.

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As night falls, the bustling Susukino, Sapporo’s entertainment district, comes to life with neon lights and a wide variety of options. From karaoke bars and izakayas to LGBTQ+ clubs, there’s something for everyone. Sapporo is a city that dazzles both day and night.

Historical Background

Sapporo’s transformation from a trading post with the Ainu into Hokkaido’s political and economic center began in 1869, when it was renamed and organized by the Hokkaido Development Commission. Inspired by Kyoto, the city was designed with a functional grid system to support rapid growth. Settlements by the Tondenhei (soldier-farmers) and the rise of industries like beer brewing, flour milling, and paper production fueled Sapporo’s development, establishing it as a hub for commerce and culture.

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As the city expanded, its entertainment and nightlife scene flourished, particularly in the Susukino district. After World War II, establishments like "Turkish baths" (the precursors to modern soaplands) gained popularity, blending relaxation with discreet adult entertainment. Over time, Susukino became a renowned nightlife hotspot, known for its safe and reputable venues, attracting both locals and tourists seeking leisure and excitement.

Characteristics of Sapporo Soaplands

Because Hokkaido is located on an island, the soaplands in Sapporo feature unique styles and services compared to those in other regions of Japan. As a well-known tourist destination, Sapporo hosts a variety of establishments catering to both locals and visitors, with each offering distinct services and atmospheres. Let's explore what sets Sapporo's soaplands apart.

Pricing

Due to the lower average income in the region compared to the national average and the high demand from tourists, Sapporo soaplands generally offer relatively reasonable prices. Prices vary across establishments, ranging from casual affordable prices for people looking to try the experience, to high-end options for veteran customers.

Characteristics of the Staff

The female staff in Sapporo are often praised for their cheerful, friendly, and attentive service. Many are also considered attractive, making them popular among international tourists. Recently, "casual soaplands" focusing on massage without additional services have become mainstream, with many establishments featuring women aged 18 to their 20s. However, it's worth noting that the advertised age may differ from the actual age as many of the women seem younger than their actual age.

Accessing Sapporo from New Chitose Airport

It takes about 50 minutes to reach Sapporo city from New Chitose Airport by train, or about 35 minutes using the rapid service. Limousine buses are also available with reservations, departing four times per hour. Taxis are less recommended due to the high cost and travel time of about an hour; train or bus are suggested for better efficiency.

Legal Regulations and Etiquette in Japanese Soaplands

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Japan's soaplands are strictly regulated by the Act on Control and Improvement of Amusement and Entertainment Businesses. Here's what one should know before visiting a Japanese soapland.

Legal Classification

Soaplands are classified as "adult entertainment businesses" under the Act on Control and Improvement of Amusement and Entertainment Businesses. Japan's adult entertainment industry is known for its relatively high standards of hygiene and customer service. Safety measures, such as regular health checks for employees and maintaining cleanliness in the establishments, are thoroughly implemented.

Age Restrictions

Patrons under 18 are prohibited from entering adult entertainment venues, including soaplands, in Japan, as stipulated by the Act on Control and Improvement of Amusement and Entertainment Businesses. That staff may ask for you to provide ID if you look younger than the age limit so be sure to carry some sort of identification with you.

Legal Gray Areas

Legally, soaplands are not permitted to offer sexual intercourse as a direct service. While the Prostitution Prevention Law does not penalize simple prostitution, providing a venue for prostitution is considered an illegal act of "place provision" for business operators. Soaplands operate under the guise of providing mixed-bathing services involving physical contact with the opposite sex in private bath areas.

Cleanliness and Personal Grooming

Maintaining personal hygiene before visiting a soapland is considered essential etiquette. This includes showering or bathing beforehand, wearing clean undergarments and socks, and using perfume sparingly or not at all.

How to Use a Soapland in Sapporo

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For those who are new to soaplands, this guide provides a detailed explanation of the process from reservation to departure, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience. Understanding each step will help you navigate the process with ease.

1. Find Your Ideal Establishment, Soap Lady, and Service Course

Choosing the right establishment involves considering your preferences and budget. Clearly define your requirements, such as area, price range, and atmosphere, to select the most suitable place. Make a list of potential establishments and research each one, including the profiles of the soap ladies.

2. Understand the Reservation Process

Reservations are typically made by phone or online, though methods may vary by establishment. Check the available dates and times in advance, and remember to specify your preferred date and time slot.

Things to Confirm When Making a Reservation

• Availability: Some establishments may have restrictions on reservation days.
• Specific Reservation Procedure: Understand how to book by phone or online, and what information is required.

3. Arrive with Confidence

Some establishments require a confirmation call to their contact number 30 minutes to an hour before the reservation time. Provide your name upon arrival and complete the payment process. Once at the establishment, the reception staff will guide you through the check-in smoothly.

4. Spending Time Inside

After arriving, you'll be shown to a waiting area designed for relaxation. Enjoy beverages while you are seated or you could even try to strike up a conversation with a fellow customer waiting in the same room. Don’t be impatient, allow time to unwind and prepare for the next step while the lovely girls get ready.

5. Receiving Service in a Private Room

You will be escorted to a private room by a staff member or greeted by the cast member. The service begins after greetings in this tranquil setting.

6. During the Service and Payment

Ease any tension by chatting and talking about your preferences before the service starts. Follow the soap lady's lead and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Payment is straightforward as the cost is predetermined based on the chosen service course.

7. Departing

An alarm or a timer may ring to let you know your time is almost finished so inform the staff and start preparing to clean up and leave. After the final farewells from the cast member, you may receive a business card so you can request their services again and know their working schedule.

*Service details vary by establishment, so it's advisable to review the information thoroughly beforehand. If you have any concerns, especially as a first-time user, consult the establishment.

Comparison with Overseas

Japanese soaplands operate legally under the Adult Entertainment Law, which strictly regulates their location and operations. Opening and managing these establishments require compliance with stringent procedures, ensuring a degree of oversight that is absent in many other countries. In contrast, many nations prohibit prostitution entirely, pushing such activities underground. This often leads to clandestine operations that lack regulation, exposing workers and clients to potential exploitation and unsafe conditions.

The services and cultural approaches also differ significantly. Japanese soaplands emphasize meticulous bathing rituals and exceptional customer service, rooted in the "customer is king" philosophy, offering a distinct and ritualized experience. Internationally, services vary widely, ranging from street-level prostitution to high-end escort services, reflecting diverse societal norms and legal frameworks. Japanese soaplands also prioritize health standards, undergoing regular inspections and implementing strict measures against sexually transmitted infections, making them not only a unique cultural phenomenon but also a relatively safe and regulated form of nightlife. These characteristics draw the curiosity of international tourists, further distinguishing them from their counterparts overseas.

Recommended Soaplands in Sapporo

Sapporo boasts numerous soaplands, but this section highlights three establishments with particularly positive reputations.

AQUA

Image source: https://www.secretoffice.jp/top/

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Located in Sapporo's Susukino area, AQUA is renowned for its stunningly attractive and service-oriented women. Clients can choose from various types, including cute, younger-sisterly, and gal-types, according to their preferences. The establishment prides itself on offering top-tier women in terms of visuals, smiles, and hospitality, primarily ranging from their late teens to twenties. AQUA offers various courses, from short to long sessions, allowing clients to choose based on their time and mood. The appeal of AQUA lies in its relatively affordable pricing, enabling clients to experience exceptional service without straining their wallets.

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[Address]

• 064-0806 Hokkaido, Sapporo City, Chuo Ward, Minami 6-jo Nishi 4-chome, Fanny Bldg. 2F

[Price Range]

• Simple Coursesome text
  • Short: 18,000 JPY for 60min
  • Middle: 27,000 JPY for 90min
  • Long: 37,000 JPY for 120min
• Regular Coursesome text
  • Short: 19,000 JPY for 60min
  • Middle: 29,000 JPY for 90min
  • Long: 39,000 JPY for 120min

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[Opening Hours]

• 8:00 am - 12:00 am 

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Website: https://www.secretoffice.jp/top/

TOUCH VIP

Image source: https://touch-vip.com/

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Touch VIP is a highly sought-after, upscale soapland in Sapporo, known for its consistently fully booked schedule. Conveniently located just a two-minute walk from Susukino Subway Station, the establishment boasts a luxurious interior designed with gold and black accents, exuding an air of sophistication. The establishment features a carefully selected team of approximately 40 women, primarily in their 20s and 30s, each possessing remarkable beauty and mature allure. These women are dedicated to providing guests with the highest level of hospitality. The cast members, known for their impeccable hygiene and captivating physiques, focus on delivering "healing" and "relaxation" to ensure utmost customer satisfaction.

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[Address]

• 064-0805 Hokkaido, Sapporo City, Chuo Ward, Minami 5-jo Nishi, 5 Chome 5-2, T2 Bldg. 2F

[Price Range]

• 25,000 JPY for 70min
• 30,000 JPY for 90min
• Request: 2,000 JPY

[Opening Hours]

• 8:30 am - 12:00 am

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Website: https://touch-vip.com/

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Men's Bath elle Cal

Image source: https://elle-car.com/

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Elle Cal, a distinguished soapland with over three decades of history in Susukino, Hokkaido, offers a transcendent experience of bliss through its carefully selected cast and time-honored techniques. Guests are transported to another world, where experienced staff, rigorously trained in traditional methods, guide them toward complete mental and physical relaxation. At Elle Cal, one can truly experience the essence of soapland heritage and hospitality.

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[Address]

• 064-0805 Hokkaido, Sapporo City, Chuo Ward, Minami 5-jo Nishi 4-chome, 9-1, Bacchus Bldg. B1F

[Price Range]

• 25,000 JPY for 70min
• 33,000 JPY for 90min
• 45,000 JPY for 120min
• Request: 3,000 JPY

[Opening Hours]

• 8:30 am - 12:00 am

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 Website: https://elle-car.com/

Conclusion

Sapporo's soaplands provide a unique glimpse into Japan's distinct adult entertainment culture. With options ranging from reasonably priced establishments to high-end venues. There is a wide variety to choose from and you can choose the establishment depending on your mood and budget. These establishments ensure a safe and hygienic environment for all visitors, including international tourists, operating within legal parameters.

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It is essential to be mindful of proper etiquette and age restrictions before visiting. While the cast members providing the services are professional they are also normal girls at the same time. To ensure a fun experience for both the customer and soap worker treating each other with kindness and communicating will help. Selecting the right establishment is also crucial for an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. By paying attention to these considerations, one can have a memorable evening in Sapporo.