In the men’s public bath, you’ll find a piece of art based on “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji: The Great Wave off Kanagawa” by the ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai. Mt. Fuji is commonly depicted in Japanese public baths, a tradition that began in the Taisho Period. The connection made it feel like the paintings on the walls were part of the bathing experience. This added to the enjoyment of bathing in water "purified" by Mt. Fuji, which many people believe helps cleanse sins and impurities.

The women’s public bath features art inspired by Monet’s Water Lilies. This piece makes the baths feel as if they’re connected to a lake adorned with floating lotus flowers. Monet, who is widely appreciated in Japan, was said to have been influenced by Hokusai’s ukiyo-e. Together, they create a striking contrast between the gentleness of Monet’s work and the energy of Mt. Fuji.

Traditional public baths continue to thrive throughout Tokyo. If you have time, consider exploring the various paintings on their walls.